Through complex, yet versatile roles Marvel star Josh Brolin has established himself as a talented actor. In his long career, the star has delivered some extremely challenging performances and accurately portrayed diverse characters. On the other hand, Christain Bale is known best for his incredible method acting and intense performances.
While both actors cannot be compared due to each being unique in their own ways, there was a time when Brolin was the replacement for a role meant for the Dark Knight star. It is usual in Hollywood to have actors replace actors, but Brolin couldn’t help but admit he was a little insulted.
Josh Brolin Felt Insulted To Replace Christian Bale
While both Brolin and Bale are wonderful actors with considerable star power now, back in 2008 it wasn’t the same. During the late 2000s Bale’s fame was skyrocketing and he was among the top actors of the world. On the other hand, Brolin hadn’t achieved his fame yet. So naturally, director Oliver Stone, who wanted to cast a ‘star’ was a bit disappointed when Christian Bale dropped out of his biographical film W. and he had to cast Brolin instead.
W is based on President George W. Bush’s life and his journey of becoming the most powerful man on the earth. The Deadpool star had reservations about portraying Bush as he had different political views and wasn’t sure why Stone would choose to cast him.
“When people approach you about roles, you understand why they would make the connection. But when [Stone] came to me about Bush, I couldn’t understand it. I couldn’t make any connection whatsoever. I was a little insulted. He said, ‘There’s something very Americana about you. There’s something bucolic about you.’”
However, after having read the script, Josh Brolin was convinced that he wanted to play the character since it challenged him in ways he had never been before.
Why Christian Bale Turned Down W.
A dedicated, intense, and prolific actor, there is no doubt that Christian Bale would have done a wonderful performance in W. in his own way. While Josh Brolin was amazing, Bale would have brought his own distinct charm to the role. But before anything could happen, the Vice star rejected the movie.
Bale, although spent months preparing for the role and getting fitted for prosthetics, didn’t feel like it was working. And hence, decided to drop out. Brolin, his replacement, reckoned that he just felt nervous taking on the role of George W. Bush.
While the Avengers: Endgame star’s acting was praised, the film was labeled by critics as lacking any real emotions, insights, or meaningful takeaway. Its performance at the box office was a disappointing feat and hence, some would say it was a good thing Bale turned down the movie.
W. can be rented on Amazon Instant Video.
Source: The Guardian
