The Perfect 'Stranger Things' Baddie, Matthew Modine Reveals a Surprising Disdain for “playing bad guys”

Published 11/04/2024, 9:04 PM EST

via Imago

Some actors excel in roles tailored to their persona, while others take on characters that contradict their core values. Many, like Brad Pitt, thrive playing rogue characters that mirror their true nature. However, Matthew Modine, renowned for his chilling portrayal of Dr. Martin Brenner in Stranger Things, defies this trend. Despite masterfully bringing the complex character to life, Modine's personal principles diverge from Brenner's morally ambiguous actions. The role left space for a disconnect between his on-screen persona and genuine self.  

Although this contrast raises intriguing questions about the art of acting, it also stresses on what it takes to be an actor, especially someone as fine as Matthew Modine.

Although born for it Matthew Modine does not enjoy playing grey characters on screen

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Speaking at the 37th Annual Film Festival, as reported by C-Ville, Matthew Modine shared his thoughts on playing Dr. Martin Brenner in Stranger Things. Modine confessed, "I do not enjoy playing 'bad' guys". Revealing further, the 65-year-old said he gets "no pleasure from it." The Duffer Brothers' scripts, however, drew him in as they crafted a complex character, allowing Modine to create a multifaceted persona.

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Despite his disdain, the actor-director-producer that he is enjoyed collaborating with the creative team to develop Brenner's distinct look. He worked on clothing, hair, and speech patterns, finding it good fun. Having brought depth to Brenner's enigmatic figure, Modine has shown true versatility as an actor that fans await to relish for a last time in the season's finale despite the delays.

'Stranger Things' Day: Matthew Modine Debuts the Perfect Spooky Season Surprise for Netflix Fans Ahead of Season 5

Staying true to himself, Modine also revealed how his favorite role in his career is not what fans think it to be.

Matthew Modine's favorite role from his career is Louden Swain for a reason

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Matthew Modine's filmography boasts iconic roles, but one that stands out for its personal impact is Louden Swain from Vision Quest. This coming-of-age story about a high-school wrestler taught Modine valuable life lessons. Speaking in the same interview, he recalled how he learned the importance of maintaining focus, and "that whatever it is we hope to accomplish demands effort and self-determination."

via Imago

Surprisingly, Modine's flagship role as Dr. Martin Brenner in Stranger Things is not his favorite. Vision Quest's influence on him is profound. He stated how some folks are gifted with natural genius and athletic abilities. However, even if they have to keep polishing, their skills are blessed with rigorous efforts to master a craft. This experience has stayed with Modine throughout his career as an actor, director, and producer, shaping his perspective on perseverance and dedication.

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As Wait for ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 Extend, Beloved Matthew Modine to Appear for a Special Q&A in Greenwich

What are your views on Matthew Modine's never-heard thoughts on portraying the Stranger Things villain? Let us know in the comments below.

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Shraddha Suman

2062 articles

Shraddha Das is a Content Lead and the Sub Group Head at Netflix Junkie. Captivated by the power of storytelling and the written word at a young age, which led her to pursue a career in journalism at the Esteemed KIIT School of Journalism and Mass Communication, in Orissa. She has over 1500 articles to her name.

Edited By: Itti Mahajan

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