Muscle Soreness on Set - Timo Boll Talks About Shooting with Chalamet - Timothée Chalamet's Golden Globe Win Proves His Ping-Pong Obsession Paid Off
Timothée Chalamet has won his first Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Comedy/Musical for his role in Marty Supreme. The film tells the story of Marty Reisman, a legendary table tennis player, with Chalamet bringing an unusual level of dedication to the part. His commitment extended beyond acting, as he immersed himself in the sport to make the portrayal as realistic as possible.
Chalamet worked closely with table tennis choreographer Diego Schaaf, who studied thousands of hours of footage to refine the film's table tennis scenes. The actor's training aimed to capture the fast-paced, exhibition-style play of the 1950s, moving beyond typical Hollywood depictions of the sport. His respect for athletes was clear, as he frequently asked questions and rehearsed even during breaks on set.
Former world table tennis champion Timo Boll also joined the production, playing a key role in a late-night shoot that lasted until 2 a.m. Boll had to adjust his modern technique to match the 1950s style, requiring intensive rehearsals with Chalamet to perfect scripted ball sequences. The physical demands left Boll with muscle soreness the following day, highlighting the effort put into the film's authenticity.
The collaboration between Chalamet, Schaaf, and Boll resulted in table tennis scenes that feel more dynamic and true to life. This attention to detail has set Marty Supreme apart from other sports films, blending entertainment with a genuine respect for the game.
Chalamet's Golden Globe win recognises his performance as Marty Reisman, a role that demanded both acting skill and athletic precision. The film's realistic portrayal of table tennis, shaped by expert training and Boll's involvement, has raised the bar for sports storytelling in cinema. Audiences now see a version of the game that stays faithful to its history and excitement.
