Breaking the Mold: Natalie Portman Challenges the Notion of Method Acting as a 'Luxury Women Can't Afford'

Breaking the Mold: Natalie Portman Challenges Method Acting as a 'Luxury Women Can't Afford'

In a candid revelation, acclaimed actress Natalie Portman delves into her perspective on method acting, shedding light on why she consciously avoids embracing this immersive approach. Portman's latest film, "May December," sees her portraying Elizabeth Berry, an actor within the storyline employing method acting to embody a character with a controversial past.

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Portman elaborated on her decision to steer clear of method acting. She expressed the view that, while she has delved deeply into her roles, the luxury of fully immersing oneself in a character's psyche might be something women, in particular, can't afford. Reflecting on her iconic role as Jackie Kennedy in the 2016 film "Jackie," Portman humorously remarked, "I don’t think that children or partners would be very understanding of, you know, me making everyone call me ‘Jackie Kennedy’ all the time.

Despite her reluctance towards method acting, Portman has exhibited an undeniable commitment to her craft, as evident in her transformative roles. Notably, she underwent a rigorous regimen for her role as a ballerina in the critically acclaimed "Black Swan," shedding 20 pounds, adhering to a restrictive diet, and dedicating hours to training.

Portman's sentiments echo those of other esteemed actresses. Meryl Streep, known for her iconic performances, expressed her discontent with the method acting approach during her portrayal of Miranda Priestly in "The Devil Wears Prada." Streep revealed feeling miserable and depressed, leading her to reconsider adopting the method in the future. Charlize Theron, too, shared her reservations about method acting, describing her experience as "miserable" during the filming of "The Devil's Advocate" in 1997.

As these powerhouse actresses challenge the narrative surrounding method acting, their insights shed light on the complexities and challenges, particularly for women in the industry. In an era where authenticity and diverse perspectives are celebrated, Portman and her counterparts exemplify a nuanced approach to their craft, navigating the demands of their roles while acknowledging the unique considerations that come with being a woman in the world of cinema.

At HuffPost, Our Commitment to Informed Democracy and Accessible Journalism

In a world where access to quality journalism is often tethered to costly subscriptions, HuffPost stands apart with a steadfast commitment to providing deeply reported, carefully fact-checked news that is freely accessible to everyone. Recognizing the financial constraints many face, we believe in breaking down barriers to information and making news available to all.

Our dedicated teams, spanning News, Politics, and Culture, invest time and care into delivering hard-hitting investigations, meticulously researched analyses, and quick yet robust daily takes. Furthermore, our Life, Health, and Shopping desks strive to empower you with well-researched, expert-vetted information to enhance your daily life. HuffPost Personal, Voices, and Opinion sections center around real stories from real people, fostering diverse perspectives.

To ensure the continuation of this commitment, we invite you to be a part of our mission. Your contribution, as modest as $1, goes a long way in supporting independent journalism that remains free for everyone. As the 2024 presidential race unfolds, the foundations of our democracy hang in the balance. A vibrant democracy necessitates well-informed citizens, and HuffPost remains resolute in providing accessible journalism, refusing to retreat behind expensive paywalls.

Your support empowers us to navigate the complexities of the current political climate responsibly. The stakes are high, and as other newsrooms erect paywalls, we stand firm in keeping our journalism open to all. We understand the weight of reporting on one of the most consequential elections in recent history, and we invite you to join us in this endeavor. Contribute as little as $1 a month and become a crucial part of HuffPost's mission to keep news free for everyone. Together, let us uphold the principles of a well-informed and vibrant democracy.

As we navigate the pivotal juncture of the 2024 presidential race, the role of accessible journalism in upholding the pillars of our democracy cannot be overstated. HuffPost, driven by the belief that a vibrant democracy thrives on well-informed citizens, remains steadfast in its commitment to providing free, high-quality journalism for all.

In a landscape where paywalls loom, we stand against the tide, ensuring our journalism reaches everyone, regardless of financial constraints. The responsibility of reporting on the unfolding political landscape is one we bear with gravity, and your support, even as little as $1 a month, becomes an integral part of this shared mission.

As we invite you to join us in sustaining this commitment, we acknowledge the power of diverse voices, real stories, and expert analyses in shaping an informed electorate. Together, let us fortify the foundations of democracy, contributing to a media landscape that values accessibility and democracy over exclusivity.

Your contribution resonates beyond dollars and cents; it echoes a collective determination to champion the principles of open and inclusive journalism. Thank you for being an essential part of HuffPost's journey to keep news free for everyone, fostering a society where information is a beacon, accessible to all who seek it.