Tom Sturridge, the talented actor known for his roles in 'On the Road' and 'Irma Veep', has been making waves with his latest project, 'The Man I Love'. This Ira Sachs-directed film, which premiered at Cannes, has garnered critical acclaim for its lead star, Rami Malek, and Sturridge's quiet yet powerful performance as his partner. Sturridge's approach to the role is a testament to his unique working style, marked by a lack of rehearsals and discussions about lines, allowing him to discover the character on camera. This method, he explains, is a 'profound leap of faith' for both the director and the actor, as it requires complete trust and confidence in the process.
In an interview with Variety, Sturridge reveals the depth of preparation he underwent to understand the historical context and cinematic grammar of the film. He watched documentaries, films, and books, including 'How to Survive a Plague' and 'Borrowed Time', to immerse himself in the era. Additionally, Sachs exposed him to films like 'Je, Tu, Il, Elle' and 'Van Gogh', providing a cinematic education. This meticulous preparation is a key aspect of Sturridge's approach to acting, as he believes it allows him to truly embody the character.
The actor also discusses his collaboration with Rami Malek, highlighting the importance of their pre-existing relationship and the need to find a physical language for their silent, long-term connection. This dynamic is a key element of the film's emotional core, and Sturridge's ability to convey it without words is a testament to his skill. The actor's performance has been praised for its quiet strength and ability to breathe life into the spaces around Malek's character, demonstrating the power of subtle acting.
Looking ahead, Sturridge is set to join the cast of Mia Hansen-Løve's upcoming biopic about Mary Wollstonecraft, 'If Love Should Die'. This project, which stars Renate Reinsve, has been a long-held dream for Sturridge, who has admired Hansen-Løve's work since seeing 'Le Père de mes enfants' at a young age. His desire to work with her, coupled with his successful collaboration with Sachs, suggests a promising future in the film industry, with Sturridge poised to become a key player in the 'Sachs family' of actors.
