If you’ve been a fan of our blog for a while, you might remember a series we started a few months ago looking at the biggest transformations actors go through in order to get that role. Today we’ll carry on looking at some of these individuals who are so committed to their craft, that they completely changed the way they look.
Charlize Theron – Monster
When you think of Charlize Theron, you probably picture the sultry blonde bombshell who steals the show in films such as Snow White and the Huntsman and most recently Mad Max:Fury Road. What you probably won’t think of is her unrecognisable performance in the 2003 film Monster. Theron had to pile on 30lbs as well as shave off her eyebrows for the role. Even after all that, she had to spend hours in makeup to give her the right look. Now, that’s commitment!
Hilary Swank – Boys Don’t Cry
If you’re looking for more completely unrecognisable transformations, you’ve come to the right place! Hilary Swank, star of Million Dollar Baby and P.S. I Love You took on the gritty role of Brandon Teena in the 1999 hit Boys Don’t Cry. The transformation was so dramatic that Swank became completely wrapped up in her new identity as a male, stating that “I thought I was never going to be able to find Hilary again. I was totally lost.” All the hard work paid off, though, when she scooped a Golden Globe and an Oscar!
Christian Bale – The Machinist
We’ve already referred to Mr Bale in part one, but when you think of actor transformations, the first one that springs to mind has got to be his incredible performance in The Machinist. Bale is probably best known for his bulked up look in the Batman franchise, but before he became the hero Gotham needs, he was Trevor Reznik – the man who didn’t sleep for a year. Bale dropped to a worrying 120lbs for the role, surviving on just coffee and one apple or can of tuna every day. The most impressive part is the fact that he bulked up for his role in Batman in just 6 weeks!
Jared Leto – Chapter 27
This super talented fellow has had plenty of success in both his acting and music career. The rocker heartthrob became completely unrecognisable when he took on the role of Mark Chapman – the assassin of John Lennon, in the film Chapter 27. He had to drastically pile on 67lbs for the role, but has since stated that he wouldn’t undergo the transformation so quickly again as he suffered from gout and was temporarily forced into a wheelchair due to his dramatic weight gain.
50 Cent – All Things Fall Apart
We’re used to seeing the rapper-turned-actor in his muscular, beefed-up state. But for the role of Deon, a cancer-stricken football player, the star had to lose 54lbs, dropping from 214lbs to 160lbs in just nine weeks. A strict liquid diet and three hours on the treadmill everyday helped the rapper to drop the weight in such a short timeframe. The film didn’t get great reviews, so it makes you wonder whether the transformation was really worth it!
Tom Hanks – Castaway
Tom Hanks may be the king of completely transforming himself for movie roles. In 1993, he lost 35lbs and shaved his head to play the role of Andrew Beckett in Philadelphia, but in 2000, his transformation skills were put to the test for his role in Cast Away. Hanks had to gain 50lbs for the part of Chuck Noland at the beginning of the film. Production was then halted for a year to allow him to lose the weight, and more in order to achieve the rugged, gaunt look that was necessary.
It’s clear to see that there are many actors out there who are well and truly dedicated to their craft, and here at Electronic World, we appreciate their dedication as we show the same for our craft – bringing you the best TV deals, whether you’re looking for cheap plasma TVs or the latest 4K model! So, if you want to watch one of these great actors in action, contact us for all the latest TV deals by calling 0121 327 3273 and speak to a member of our friendly team!