Matt Smith explains how his punk Caught Stealing character is really a “sweet guy”

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Upon initial observation, Matt Smith’s role in Darren Aronofsky’s latest thriller, “Caught Stealing,” may not appear to be particularly kind-hearted at first sight.

In the movie, I make an appearance early on, dressed in a leather outfit and sporting a vibrant mohawk, complete with a persistent growl. This character is known as Russ. He requests Austin Butler’s character, Hank, to take care of his cat while he journeys back to the UK to be with his ailing father.

He shared that on the initial day, Darren and I had a conversation about it. Additionally, we found him at a juncture of tension and pressure.

One piece of advice Darren shared with me early on that stood out was something like, “This character has a certain sweetness or sensitivity about him that might explain his behavior.

Aronofsky himself added that the role was a “very hard” one for Smith to play.

He clarified, “[Russ] has his own unique simplicity.” He added that this is quite challenging and yet, there’s a surprising softness in him, despite his rough exterior.

Smith found particular pleasure in the dynamic between Russ and the man living in the apartment across, whom he knew as Duane (portrayed by George Abud). To him, Duane seemed like a stark contrast to his own punk beliefs.

I really admire the neighbor living across from us. He has such an incredible drive and determination that I think could take us on an extraordinary journey – perhaps even all the way to the moon, circling it, returning, and coming back down to Earth again.

Each day, he encounters him, and he can’t help but think, ‘You embody all that I despise’. Thus, his first day on the job turned out to be quite eventful.

In a more casual and conversational tone: The gritty crime-drama “Caught Stealing,” set in the chaotic criminal underworld of ’90s New York, promises to be a hit among audiences. Director Darren Aronofsky shared that witnessing Smith’s performance with a British audience during the UK premiere was an extra enjoyable experience for him.

He expressed that it was truly captivating to witness the show with the British audience last night. For his act, the crowd responded enthusiastically, laughing continuously during the initial scene, and an immense wave of excitement swept over them when he reappeared on stage for the second time.

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2025-08-28 11:34