The Clever Trick: What Helped Fassbender Portray an Alcoholic in '12 Years a Slave' So Well?
The clever concept to get a realistic reaction.
To authentically portray an alcoholic in 12 Years a Slave, Michael Fassbender took an unusual approach.
He had his makeup artist paint his mustache with alcohol, ensuring that the scent would be detectable to those around him. This clever trick was designed to elicit genuine reactions from his fellow actors, who would naturally respond to the smell of heavy drinking.
Fassbender’s commitment to realism extended beyond acting; he wanted every detail of his performance to feel authentic and immersive. The subtle but effective use of alcohol on his mustache helped create a more convincing portrayal of a man struggling with addiction, adding depth and credibility to his character. This behind-the-scenes detail highlights Fassbender’s dedication to his craft and the lengths actors go to for realism in their performances.
