When one discovers a relationship that works perfectly, it only makes sense to stick with it. This truth extends to the very particular relationships formed between directors and the actors with whom they decide to work. Some directors choose to cast different individuals in each film they create, while others find themselves returning time and time again to the same individuals. Such is the case with the legendary and highly esteemed Canadian director David Cronenberg, who seems to have become smitten with the undeniably talented actor Viggo Mortensen. Cronenberg and Mortensen have now collaborated on three acclaimed films: A History of Violence (2005), Eastern Promises (2007), and A Dangerous Method (2011). Each film offers something unique, but retains the distinctive feel that the two bring to their collective work.
Cronenberg, known as the “King of Venereal Horror,” has become famous for his gruesome films that often depict the terror derived from mutation, sickness, and other unpleasantries, such as The Dead Zone (1983) and The Fly (1986). His more recent works starring Mortensen, however, have a taken a more psychological approach to his exploration of the human. I was fortunate enough to attend the “In Conversation With… Viggo Mortensen and David Cronenberg” event at the TIFF Bell Lightbox as part of their David Cronenberg project, where the two discussed their films and now-famous partnership. Both appeared comfortable and at ease with the other, and their camaraderie was striking in two seemingly serious individuals. In reality, both parties are soft spoken and deliberate, choosing their words with care but always unafraid to crack a joke at the other’s good-natured expense.
Many fascinating aspects of this director/actor partnership were revealed as the two outlined their collaborations. To the surprise of many, Mortensen honestly revealed that he initially hated the script for A History of Violence, finding it to be pointlessly violent and off-putting, and only considering the job because he was in need of money. After speaking with Cronenberg, however, his mind was changed as the two discovered that they shared a similar vision and approach. As they worked together, the script was moulded into the Best Picture nominated masterpiece on display today. Cronenberg provided his own set of confessions as well, admitting through laughter that he has never seen the Lord of the Rings films that have made Mortensen the famous heartthrob that he is.
This partnership ultimately works because of the trust and confidence both director and actor has in the other. Cronenberg does not force blocking from his actors, allowing them to use their instincts as they move through a scene, which garners respect from these individuals. Mortensen, a performer who often invents his movements and gestures on the spot, especially appreciates this technique and finds it to be to his benefit. For his part, Mortensen also trusts this director enough to work with him on projects about which he initially feels unease. The two genuinely see their collaborations as partnerships, working together and sharing the research on films such as Eastern Promises that require extensive background cultural knowledge in order to become experts on their subjects.
When asked why he initially chose to work with Mortensen, Cronenberg immediately cited his own instincts, indicating his belief that all was meant to be. While the aesthetics of the individuals may stand in juxtaposition – the dark and handsome leading man versus the white haired, eccentric director – the two speak together brilliantly and have clearly formed a meaningful friendship. It is a fortunate bonus that the world of film has been able to benefit from this relationship as well.
