Actor Star Fears Losing Himself - Timothée Chalamet transforms in Marty Supreme, Safdie's raw table tennis drama
A new film, Marty Supreme, has arrived in cinemas after years of development. Directed by Josh Safdie, it tells the story of a table tennis prodigy, loosely based on the life of American player Marty Reisman. The project began when Safdie's wife gifted him a biography of Reisman, sparking a long-term passion for the story.
Timothée Chalamet stars as the lead, taking on a role that demanded intense physical and emotional transformation. To embody the character, he wore strong contact lenses and prosthetic masks. Safdie aimed to capture a raw, unguarded version of the actor, pushing him beyond his usual performances.
Chalamet has spoken about his fear of losing himself as his fame grows. He deliberately chooses unsettling roles to avoid becoming too comfortable in his career. This approach aligns with Safdie's vision for the film, which required vulnerability from its lead.
The production also marked a return for Gwyneth Paltrow, who came out of retirement to join the cast. Her involvement adds to the film's star power, though details about her specific role remain limited.
Marty Supreme premiered in February 2026 after years of careful planning. Safdie's focus on authenticity and Chalamet's transformative performance shape the film's unique tone. The story of a table tennis prodigy, inspired by real events, now reaches audiences as a deeply personal project for all involved.