In a recent discussion in London, acclaimed actor Timothée Chalamet set about naming his selection of five legendary Britons.
"The F1 champion, David and Victoria," he stated, mentioning the multiple Formula One champion and the famous couple.
His list veered into an unconventional turn with the mention of underground rapper Fakemink, prompting questions about a alleged connection with anonymous Liverpool artist EsDeeKid. To these queries, Chalamet responded with, "I can't say."
But, it was his last choice that arrived completely as a surprise. After a long pause, he announced: "Susan Boyle."
This reveals, one of the biggest movie stars on the planet is a self-professed admirer of the 64-year-old former Britain's Got Talent sensation, who secured two US number one albums.
"She envisioned more than all of us," he remarked completely devoid of irony. "Who wasn't moved by that?" he continued, referencing the 2009 viral clip of Boyle performing I Dreamed A Dream.
The Promotion Behind the List
The purpose for naming these great Britons is part of a unconventional promotional campaign for his new 1950s ping-pong film, Marty Supreme.
For the past month, Chalamet has been presenting embroidered jackets bearing the film's title to personalities he deems to be "great."
Honourees so far have included swimmer Michael Phelps, NFL legend Tom Brady, and soccer prodigy Lamine Yamal.
On His Craft
In Marty Supreme, Chalamet plays Marty Mauser, a loosely-based version of real-life post-war star Marty Reisman. The character has a flawed nature, getting involved in a heist and threatening a marriage.
"Essentially, when you're in your youth, you're an naive," he said with a laugh. "This movie, in large part, is about making mistakes in your youth."
His captivating performance has already earned him best actor nominations at the Critics Choice Awards, setting up a potential Oscar showdown with Leonardo DiCaprio.
The Drive to Excel
Chalamet's belief was on display earlier this year when, receiving a SAG Award, he stated his pursuit of excellence, listing inspirations like Daniel Day-Lewis and Viola Davis.
When asked about the origin of this drive, he reflected: "Honestly, it varies. And I feel like that's what forces me on my toes... It's a constant learning process."
Looking Back
As he approaches 30, Chalamet reflects on a period that included critical acclaim in films like Dune and Wonka.
"It's been amazing. I feel like I'm living in a dream," he remarked with a beaming expression.
His dedication is intense: five years of guitar for A Complete Unknown, and years of training of table tennis for his current film.
"I think the responsibility... is that it looks real on screen," he stated.
A Love for Cinema
At a time when online services are consolidating the industry, Marty Supreme is an cinematic story designed for a wide cinema release.
"I do think cinemas will survive and thrive," Chalamet asserted. "The aim... is... to take this traditional form and bring it to people."
He is confident that films like his can contribute to saving the cinema experience.
"This is an original film at a time where a lot of original films are uncommon... I've never been more certain in saying, 'If you, if you bring yourself to see this movie, you won't be let down.'"
Nearing 30, Timothée Chalamet appears more than ready to channel the inspiration of his idol, Susan Boyle, and pursue his vision.
Marty Supreme is set to premiere on the day after Christmas.
