Sean Penn's Shocking Order: Cast Must Despise Michael J. Fox
A surprising behind-the-scenes revelation from Stephen Baldwin exposes Sean Penn's extreme method acting demands during the filming of a controversial Vietnam War drama.
It's nearly impossible to dislike Michael J. Fox. Even after receiving a devastating Parkinson's diagnosis at just 30 years old, he remains one of Hollywood's most beloved figures. His foundation has generated hundreds of millions of dollars for disease research, making him an inspiration for patients worldwide and anyone facing health challenges. Plus, he's the guy who brought us Marty McFly!
Yet there might be two people who harbor negative feelings toward Fox: Eric Stoltz, the actor he famously replaced in Back to the Future (ouch), and surprisingly, Sean Penn.
Baldwin Reveals Penn's Unusual Directive
This startling information comes from Stephen Baldwin, who shared the story on the One Bad Movie podcast while discussing Brian De Palma's 1989 film Casualties of War. Baldwin had a small part in the movie, while Fox and Penn carried the leading roles.
Baldwin remembered a strange conversation with Penn about their fellow actor. "We can't be friends with Mike Fox," Penn told him. When Baldwin asked why, Penn explained it was all about their characters. "Our characters, we hate him," Penn said. "So you have to hate him with me. Do what I tell you."
The Dark Subject Matter Behind the Method
Casualties of War deals with the horrific 'Hill 192' incident from the Vietnam War, where American soldiers kidnapped a Vietnamese woman, then assaulted and killed her. Fox portrayed the only soldier who opposed this terrible crime, with the story unfolding through his character's memories. Penn played the Sergeant who, after losing a friend in combat, ordered the abduction.
Baldwin appeared as an unnamed soldier, though he was originally cast in a bigger role before being fired and replaced by John C. Reilly just days into production.
Penn's Method Acting Reputation
Penn clearly didn't actually despise Fox during filming, but does that justify his approach? The answer depends on your feelings about method acting. Penn has long been known for this intense technique. Even back in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, he stayed in character constantly and wouldn't respond to his real name.
Method acting supporters argue the results prove the approach works. However, was it really necessary for Penn to demand that other actors hate Fox, especially given such sensitive material?
Interestingly, Fox himself holds Casualties of War in high regard, considering it his most underappreciated film. Given his positive feelings about the project, he probably doesn't mind that everyone pretended to dislike him throughout the shoot.