In a recent interview in London, Oscar-nominee Timothée Chalamet was tasked with compiling his selection of five legendary Britons.
"Lewis Hamilton, David and Victoria Beckham," he stated, citing the multiple Formula One champion and the famous couple.
His list took an unexpected turn with the selection of London-based rapper Fakemink, prompting questions about a rumored collaboration with mysterious Liverpool artist EsDeeKid. On this topic, Chalamet responded with, "All will be revealed."
However, it was his ultimate selection that emerged utterly unexpectedly. After a thoughtful moment, he announced: "Susan Boyle."
It turns out, one of the most prominent movie stars on the planet is a open admirer of the Scottish former Britain's Got Talent star, who secured two US number one albums.
"She dreamt bigger than all of us," he explained without any hint of irony. "Everyone was touched by that?" he continued, referencing the 2009 viral clip of Boyle performing I Dreamed A Dream.
The Project Behind the List
The purpose for selecting these great Britons relates to a unconventional promotional strategy for his new 1950s ping-pong film, Marty Supreme.
For the last few weeks, Chalamet has been awarding jackets bearing the film's title to personalities he judges to be "exceptional."
Recipients so far have included swimmer Michael Phelps, NFL legend Tom Brady, and soccer prodigy Lamine Yamal.
About His Roles
In Marty Supreme, Chalamet plays Marty Mauser, a fictionalized version of real-life post-war star Marty Reisman. The character possesses a flawed nature, getting involved in a heist and endangering a marriage.
"Essentially, when you're in your twenties, you're an idiot," he laughed. "The film, in large part, is about being an idiot in your early twenties."
His frenetically entertaining performance has already landed him Best Actor nominations at the Golden Globes, creating a potential Oscar race with Leonardo DiCaprio.
The Drive to Excel
Chalamet's belief was clear earlier this year when, while collecting a SAG Award, he proclaimed his pursuit of greatness, citing inspirations like Daniel Day-Lewis and Viola Davis.
When asked about the root of this mindset, he reflected: "Truthfully, it ebbs and flows. And I feel like that's what drives me on my toes... It's a never-ending process."
Looking Back
Nearing this milestone, Chalamet looks back on a ten years that included Oscar nominations in films like Dune and Wonka.
"It's been great. I feel like I'm living in a dream," he said with a broad grin.
His preparation is legendary: five years of guitar for A Complete Unknown, and years of training of table tennis for his latest role.
"I think the duty... is that it feels genuine on screen," he enthused.
Belief in Theatres
At a time when online services are dominating the industry, Marty Supreme is an non-franchise movie getting a big-screen release.
"I do think cinemas will persist," Chalamet mused. "The goal... is... to bring this experience and bring it to people."
He sincerely believes that films like his can play a part in sustaining the theatrical model.
"It is an original film at a time where a lot of original films are rare... I've never been more certain in saying, 'Hey, if you come to see this movie, you will be entertained.'"
Nearing 30, Timothée Chalamet appears more than ready to channel the example of his surprising choice, Susan Boyle, and dream his dream.
Marty Supreme is hitting cinemas on December 26th.
