Michael Stuhlbarg Credits Julia Roberts, Tom Cruise with Inspiring His Approach to Acting
LOS ANGELES – Acclaimed actor Michael Stuhlbarg attributes much of his growth as a performer to observing and learning from his celebrated co-stars, including Julia Roberts and Tom Cruise. Known for his versatile roles in films like “Hitchcock,” ”Lincoln,” and “The Post,” Stuhlbarg consistently emphasizes the impact of working alongside industry icons.
Stuhlbarg, currently garnering praise for his latest projects, reflects on decades of invaluable lessons gleaned from fellow actors. He describes a professional habitat where collaboration and mutual respect flourish, noting that these experiences have profoundly shaped his own artistic process. “if you’re going to go to battle with anybody, they are remarkable colleagues and comrades,” he says.
Stuhlbarg fondly recalls observing Julia Roberts’ dedication and presence on set,noting her ability to fully inhabit a character while maintaining a supportive atmosphere. He also speaks highly of Tom Cruise’s commitment to his craft and his collaborative spirit. “These are the kinds of artists that have an impression on you and make you want to be the best version of what you have to offer,” Stuhlbarg explains. “It made me want to emulate them and to steal from them. I carry them with me everywhere I go.”
Throughout his career, Stuhlbarg has consistently sought to absorb techniques from his peers. He remembers being inspired by Ed Harris’s unpredictable performances in the 1996 Broadway play “Taking Sides,” where ”every night, he was never the same twice, in the best way.”
Working with Anthony Hopkins on “Hitchcock,” Stuhlbarg immersed himself in the “joy” Hopkins brought to the role, observing how the veteran actor would “just riff and be wholly free.” A memorable encounter with Daniel day-Lewis during filming of “Lincoln” involved Day-lewis offering a metaphorical gesture of support, “putting his arms on my shoulders and just providing a kind of metaphor for making sure that he’s going to get my vote.” He also cites the “ease” of Meryl Streep and the “friendly effortlessness” of Tom Hanks on “The Post” as particularly impactful.
