In the field of acting, it is essential that actors know how to mold themselves into their characters. It is a core part of the job to be able to effectively go into one character, and really commit to their personality, habits, style, speech and lifestyle. This is then all put on a shelf or cast aside when they are cast in their next role, and must go deep into another character. Extreme dedication and talent is needed to slip in and out of different personalities, and to put your entire true self on the back burner to become someone else. Many actors go “method,” which is when they completely turn into their characters off screen, and live this persona 24 hours a day and seven days a week while filming that particular movie. Some of the greatest actresses to pull off this feat of transformation has caused them to look and act like totally different people. The difference is so convincing that it is easy to forget who they really are outside of the film, which is an indication of great skill and research on behalf of the actress. If you would like to see some of the best actresses in the game, check out the 6 most drastic movie role transformations by actresses.
Natalie Portman
For her role in Black Swan, Natalie Portman lost a drastic 20 pounds, which is extreme for her as she was already thin before the movie. She trained a total of five to eight hours each day to transform herself into a prima ballerina. For all of her hard work, she definitely was recognized after winning an Oscar for Best Actress for the film.
Charlize Theron
For the 2003 film Monster, Charlize Theron gained 30 pounds and had extensive make up sessions everyday. She successfully transformed herself into the persona of Aileen Wuornos, who is an actual serial killer.
Meryl Streep
To play the role of former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Margaret Thatcher, Meryl Streep had to really commit. This is no sweat off her nose though, as Meryl Streep is one of the best actresses ever in many minds. In preparation for the 2011 film The Iron Lady, she had to really study the mannerisms, linguistic tendencies and overall mental state of the well known politician. For this role, Meryl Streep one an Oscar for Best Actress.
Demi Moore
Not only did she get super committed to the role, but Demi Moore cut off all of her hair and went totally bald for her role in the 1997 movie G.I. Jane. For the movie, Demi Moore had to endure daily weight training to play the role of the first woman to ever undergo U.S. Navy Special Warfare Group training.
Mariah Carey
Very unlike her actual musical career persona that is very upbeat, outgoing and cheery, Mariah Carey had to alter herself to play the withdrawn, timid, and bare faced role of a social worker in the 2009 film Precious. Many may not have even realized she was in the film!
Glenn Close
Another actress you may not have recognized because of their commitment to the role is Glenn Close in Albert Nobbs. The 2011 British Irish film required Glenn Close to play the role of a woman pretending to be a man so that she could find work in the 1920’s. In 1982 starred in the Off-Broadway adaptation of the story based on a 1927 novel, and then spent 15 years vying for it to be made into a film. That paid off, because the film earned several Oscar and Golden Globe nominations.
