Natalie Portman & Paul Mescal | Actors on Actors

In their Actors on Actors conversation, Natalie Portman ('May December') and Paul Mescal ('All of Us Strangers') talk about how they dive deep to bring out the most authentic performances possible.
Variety Actors on Actors presented by American Fiction from Amazon Studios.
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[@MMM-wn2gz]

Anyone else watching since the rumours?.... I see it

[@marcusmarchesi1966]

You can't miss it 😂

[@lillynunnally2005]

Totally true they are so…into each other 💖

[@marial05]

I thought that Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott were in love with eachother

[@sofiagomes3844]

Me....😂😂😂

[@atuloraon5384]

Whoever is responsible for pairing up these amazing actors definitely knows their work and deserve a raise.

[@cczwhite]

Yeah they seem to hold each other in such high regard too which is really something special:)

[@palemoonlight96]

They're the wildest, most random and most unexpected combinations ever but work every time!!

[@MsTriangle]

@@palemoonlight96 her ex husband directed Paul in a movie so not so surprising after all.

[@hameed]

is it my turn to post this exact same comment on the next video?

[@cczwhite]

@@hameed it's first come first serve. It's the hunger games out here. You either get that comment and the likes or you're OUT! 😅

[@Naomi-ll6wv]

You can tell Paul Mescal is just in complete awe to be hearing such praise from the iconic Natalie Portman. He looks like a deer in headlights at certain points of this interview. He is so humble, and still doesn't seem to grasp how talented he is. I would love to see them in a project together. Such a cool pairing.

[@MatchesMalone1183]

Irish people in general a very bad at taking praise. It's engrained in our culture to not get too big headed or think too highly of ourselves compared to others, so being complimented like that is actually quite uncomfortable.

[@stabcitySB]

⁠@@MatchesMalone1183 I can certainly second that and as bad as we may be, I personally love the huge difference in experience between the two and how Portman is still, unsurprisingly, the most humble, understanding, consummate professional.

[@jnpilot]

How humble is Natalie?!? He pays her the most wonderful compliment and all she can do is rave about him in return. They feel like equals here despite her decades of experience and that’s because she made him feel comfortable to be vulnerable with her despite being a big fan of hers.

[@TheSupergamer55]

That shows that Natalie leads her professional life with true love for the craft and wants to see new school actors succeed as well.

[@Extra-dg7uv]

She's so awesome ❤

[@nickyme8407]

​@@Realsagarbhat Internet is really for mor*ns. Of course if I talk to someone who doesn't like you you will be the worst person ever. But thank God people usually have common sense and don't comdamn people based on only one person.

[@aninjaguardian]

Paul Mescal is on an insane career path. Aftersun was easily the best film of 2022 and Mescal should've won. I doubt he'll ever turn in a bad performance, so he's got many awards coming up in the coming years

[@KenoSNeal]

Aftersun really was the best film of that year. No other film was able to reach me emotionally the way that one did. A magnificent achievement.

[@magdam8290]

Aftersun is boring, uninteresting family video clip, overrated af

[@tysonjankowiak]

@@magdam8290 go back to marvel movies the and fast franchise or whatever hole you came from mate

[@KenoSNeal]

@@magdam8290 you're boring and uninteresting

[@magdam8290]

@@tysonjankowiak you're so classy and sophisticated as filmmaking in Aftersun 👎i would rather watch any marvel movie than this miserable overhyped piece of "art"

[@lailastark6010]

Natalie is a funny, beautiful, kind, humble and very intelligent person. It is always a pleasure to listen to her.

[@nattycozy1]

Agree, I still have to watch Jackie! She is so classy and seems so intelligent!

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

❤❤❤❤

[@evabettyyt1192]

Agreeee

[@freesquirrels46]

A serious promotion is needed for the people who are coming up with these Actors on Actors pairings

[@rics1883]

yeah ok, every video like these gets same comment, so calm down.

[@pupkru]

@@rics1883and there’s always comment like yours 🙄 so good job for adding this one

[@ngasalaja2839]

@@rics1883 and why is that a problem btw?? gatekeeping a comment? really?

[@emmaeaston9292]

Every time she pays Paul Mescal a compliment - the raw innocence of just how quietly delighted his wee face looks is exquisite 🌟

[@miavangraan2042]

Paul Mescal has such soothing energy, can't explain it. Seems like such a decent bloke.

[@cathybruce10]

He's utterly beautiful

[@jbkrobin]

Variety is becoming very good at variances and bringing variations. Love this duo in "actors on actors".

[@SereneColeman]

Paul is the most emotionally intelligent, sensitive man. It’s a wonder to listen to him speak, both his humility and kindness shine through.

[@TheEbo34]

Two of the kindest souls and people who you wouldn't know are movie stars talking to them on the street. Tremendous pairing

[@petehogan7299]

Paul sounds so nervous but at same time it's his nervousness that makes him so normal so genuine . Natalie is just a pure natural soul that oozes realism in an overly fake Hollywood world.

[@RosaF1tz]

i’m simple: i see paul mescal, i click.

[@FortniteBurger11]

I wish they talked about Normal People more. It is probably one of the most amazing performances, if not the most amazing, I've seen portrayed between two people. Really changed my view about what the art of acting is. I know this interview is used as a way to promote their movies, but I would've loved to hear Natalie's takes on his performance of Connell and chemistry with Daisy Edgar-Jones.

[@15Candles]

Compare to most teen series/movies coming out these days, Normal People is a breath of fresh air

[@malcolmlarri9073]

I agree ! I have watched Normal People five or six times because it’s just an amazing duet between two phenomenal actors. It’s just a masterpiece and so hauntingly beautiful ❤

[@hankro1]

as much as I agree with the sentiments about NP, he must be sick of talking about it :/

[@MAR-sl8xn]

Paul Mescal is a versatile actor of the generation. He's doing well in his latest film and he's such a wonderful person to watch in any independent films like ‘Aftersun’ and ‘All Of Us Strangers’.

[@jamescarr1265]

Stop omg. You’re an AI who comments on every video.

[@15Candles]

God's Creatures starring Paul and Emily Watson was a unique one too

[@jamescarr1265]

@@15Candles don’t respond it’s a bot comment

[@15Candles]

@@jamescarr1265 lol what

[@jamescarr1265]

@@15Candles he’s a bot.

[@Genre_Ghast]

Paul’s talent and his filmography speak for themselves but it has to be so validating sitting in front of one of the greatest dramatic actors to ever do it and being thoughtfully praised for your performances. We’re lucky as an audience to see them as actors but also as genuine people who seem to appreciate the great parts of their art.

[@user-bx9vc1er6u]

They’re both so attractive im going crazy

[@justynaherbut2724]

LOL😊😊

[@mrmdaher]

Paul Mescal in normal people was stunning, aftersun was brilliant but all of us strangers left me stunned!! I love the combo of these 2 ✨🎭

[@joeylaird77]

Black Swan is one of the best performances ever on film. I fell in love with her in Leon - she was a child! Paul is a raw talent. Such a great pairing.

[@vixyvelasquez9898]

I keep saying this y’all : Natalie is our modern Audrey Hepburn . Her face , her style , her class. Years from now she will definitely be in Hollywood history , an icon

[@MrKadirbey]

Natalie is a legend. She was so fricking good in May December.

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

❤❤❤❤

[@MiaBW]

Always loved Natalie's voice! She has this amazing unic mother voice! Like the kind of voice you want to give you an advice or the kind of voice you you will always listen to when she talks! 🖤

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

❤❤❤❤

[@keirajohannson]

whoever paired these two together deserve a significant raise

[@Carostmarger]

I literally blushed second-handedly when she complimented him

[@DavidN369]

All of the entries in this year's series have been fascinating pairings so far -- this one might be the most engaging one yet. Makes me want to see Ms. Portman and Mr. Mescal do a project together, sooner rather than later. Their mutual appreciation and regard is as self-evident as their talent in their respective films. Really enjoyable conversation. Thanks, Variety.

[@lenah96]

Paul Mescal is just something else. Incredible actor ❤

[@adesignerlife]

Oh my God this is crazy we need this pair in a movie and also so much respect and admiration for both of them.

[@otalobo]

Paul is literally the best actor of our generation. Without even a single doubt. He’s amazing!

[@paolovid]

I remember 1996. It wasn't yesterday, but it wasn't long ago. Paul Mescal was born then...but he's been "here" much longer than that. Fascinating old soul.

[@robinbobbyolsson]

She’s being so generous and kind to him. Two great actors but she gives this younger actor space and he is just in awe of her. Great to see. Love the Actors on Actors series.

[@oliviaalongi8294]

does anyone feel chemistry or am i completely wrong & they’re just in awe of each other

[@soloar2007]

You nailed it

[@saramonsalve154]

Im just amazed on how much work and ethic Natalie has. You can see how much efforts she puts in her characters like that kind on things are the ones that make me feel so in love with films.

[@xandertriss4986]

Never been so early for a video in my life! I'm SEATED for Natalie Portman 🎉❤

[@kpopkdramaislife2136]

Same 😍

[@chryXantho]

This isn't an interview between two people, this is two people acting like they are interviewing each other while trying to hide their intense attraction and chemistry to each other.

[@brattneykerst]

The combo I didn't know I needed. Natalie is so beautiful and articulate in her words and Paul is so talented, humble, and handsome. Ugh. Can't get enough.

[@magnatazer16]

Paul is one of those rare, once in a generation talents. Normal People was beautiful, crushing and ultimately so real it hurt. Aftersun stayed with me for a long time as well. I want to see everything he's done and I'm so excited for his future.

[@ohkay680]

Really admire these two actors never thought to see them together so I’m excited to watch this! Props to the person who’s been pairing up the recent actors!

[@godsgif232]

I love Natalie so much!! She seems so genuine and kind

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

❤❤❤

[@leonardobessauer3713]

How can this woman become more beautiful every single year? She’s ridiculously gorgeous what tha heck :O

[@janeryder43]

Brilliant. Genuine. Magnificient actors and conversation.

[@vitaflood6677]

They are so magnetic I love the respect they have for each other's work

[@AmberSunny1]

I just love them both so much as actors. I feel like we have witnessed them both grow up. It’s so beautiful.

[@malcolmlarri9073]

I have watched Normal People five or six times …it’s such an incredible duet between both of the lead actors. He’s a very special actor indeed

[@DegrassiInstantStar]

Love this pairing SO much!!!

[@HuyTran0617]

I adore both of them! It's like heaven for me to listen to them speak for 40 minutes. It's so soothing and relaxing. Would be nice in the future to see them working together in a movie or a serie.

[@tylersdog]

What an absolute joy to watch these two intelligent and extremely talented actors. I admire them both tremendously, and this conversation just goes to show how hard they work and what they take from it. Well done.

[@edwincatalan5000]

My favorite pair in this season !!! I was so exited seeing and hearing them , both are extraordinary actor , for me this is cinema , big fan , gotta love them so proud to see Paul mescal now in the same room whith Natalie freakin Portman!!!!

[@DavH095]

Absolutely was not expecting Natalie to drop the roman empire meme 😂

[@fieldsofhorsesroam8488]

What an amazing pairing and I've been so enthralled listeing to the both of them! Just becoming familiar with Paul Mescal and what a lovely, smart and talented guy! Been a fan of Natalie's work for years and years and can never get over what a grounded, kind and humble person she remains. Thanks for pairing these two intelligent, thoughtful and trruly talented actors!

[@Sniptosnipe]

This is one of those conversations I love to listen to, it goes for people who act and lawyers. I watch a lot of actors and actresses getting interviewed and right away I can instantly tell why someone loves playing a character . I'm interested in the people who give off real vibes playing characters.

[@Dani3leon]

Portman + Mescal = 💕 well done, Variety!

[@philliphadathought1537]

What an amazing discussion by two intelligent, lovely people. I’ve grown up with Natalie Portman, and she is amazing. And Paul Mescal is an absolute revelation. His last two films affected me in the most unforgettable way. When you still feel a film days after you’ve watched it, it’s the sign of something trully special. I finished watching Normal People a couple of days ago. Again, left speechless by his performance. I can only stand back and be in awe. So lucky to be alive to experience this.

[@KenoSNeal]

I still tear up watching Aftersun. Loved Paul and Frankie's chemistry.

[@hessu275]

Normal People is one of the most beautiful shows I've seen... and Leon is my favorite movie

[@pepijnhuysman1293]

Thank you so much variety for this interview. It was amazing! Loved those two together

[@mbpandora50]

This is such a wonderful watch with both these individuals.

[@imeanah]

what an amazing pairing, loved every second of this!

[@itsserhioball]

They both are unbelievably talented and charming and beautiful and other objectives I don't remember. This talk is very inspiring and interesting, this magic that brings the movie to life may look like glamour and fun for money but it's a huge work with things I can't imagine. Thanks for this interview. It's always a pleasure to see these people!

[@karmaisacat9]

Natalie is an absolute treasure.

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

❤❤❤❤

[@thiagosardenberg353]

Wonderful chat. Paul deserves an Oscar nom for the role on AOUS ❤

[@Michael-zo3pm]

I love both of these two beautiful people so very much! They’re both such tremendously talented actors; they both have done so many wonderful roles. I would LOVE to see them in a movie together. I hope they can find a good project to work together on in the future!

[@breegalesmith9466]

This is a beautiful discussion, I love them both. Cast them opposite of one another in a movie right now! Now!

[@jasakiii4474]

Yeeess the pairing Ive been waiting for!!

[@heatheryi]

I expected Natalie to be well-spoken and articulate as she’s a known educated intellectual, but surprised that Paul is just as so, and was able to enrich the space with interesting points. Paul is the same age as me but seems wise beyond his years! Great conversation.

[@KenoSNeal]

Such a condescending and judgmental comment.

[@user-bc2vj6vf7c]

Irish are better educated on average than the brits

[@bettybreeze78]

He’s a working class Irish lad but studied at Trinity College which is basically Ireland’s equivalent of Oxford or Cambridge

[@heatheryi]

@@bettybreeze78 oh wow! A fellow academic! Well it shows

[@sumiokodai1652]

be surprised if someone isn't with their native language or they're articulate with their second or third language lol

[@ericlewis9472]

I love Natalie Portman she is so cool!

[@rebekka9845]

i loved Paul mescal’s acting in normal people. That Series ripped my heart out in the best way possible. The scene where he’s opening up to his therapist - i was floored. He is definitely a new generation actor. This type of guy/actor wasn’t around 10-20 years ago. Not that older generations are or were less great. There has just been a clear cultural change/shift. His work is on my bucket list.

[@ilsehuesca5313]

How beautiful and smart this people are, wow.

[@dhruvsarang7636]

My of my favorite people, love this so much!

[@ahmadashrafsedki14]

me gusta mucho la entrevista, paul y natalie son Increíbles juntos

[@juaneMendez06]

Qué delicioso es escuchar a dos personas tan talentosas y entregadas a su trabajo, hablar sobre la artesanía de crear un personaje. Increíbles actores. De las mejores entrevistas. Sin pretensiones como los otros actors on actors (que han sido un mero juego de publicidad, bastante predecible)

[@saramonsalve154]

Que comentario tan espectacular.

[@TheTaindio]

Absolutely wonderful and intelligent conversation

[@KyV4]

I truly don't want to be shallow right now but wow Paul is such an attractive, beautiful man.

[@tengelygabor]

OMG, their chemistry is just incredible ☺️

[@jenniferburke2076]

His eyes are so soo blue!!!❤

[@bervelyndawson6156]

so fun to watch and listen to. love this

[@rubberducky6411]

Natalie has all the classic attributes that embolden what a true actor is.Poise, intelligence and humility she really gets how to carry that level of status and honor it with such self dignity...glad to see she is doing well and wish her all the best in the future.

[@elenasingleterry5854]

She is also an exceptional human being. One of very few in Hollywood who is consistently vegan and has done a lot to spread awareness of the torture and abuse of farm animals on farms and inside slaughterhouses. She has been vegan since childhood and has never strayed.

[@bl0ndieAhtletic]

What couple of excellent kind listening people these two are

[@sweetsolitude99]

I'm so glad he brought up the "this is just what grownups do" line because whew what a gut punch of a line

[@sarahbgln]

Natalie just never ages! She's awesome

[@evandroid]

Paul Mescal is talented, beautiful, stylish, hot, and seems to be a nice person as well 🔥❤️

[@edgarpizanoramos2969]

no words... i love paul

[@isabelrg9989]

Natalie has been my favourite actress for a while and Paul became my favourite actor after watching Aftersun. I love that both are so authentic human beings which ultimately translates on amazing performers. I'd adore to see them play as a couple on a future film. #fingerscorssed 🤞

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

I love Natalie Portman so much, she's a legend, she's the best actress of all time, she's the perfect queen and goddess 💖✨🤩🥰

[@jaxster212]

Can we get a movie with these two please 🙏🏽 both Uber talented and beautiful!

[@gerardicosas]

Natalie... omg what an ACTRESS, hope she win's the Oscar.

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

❤❤❤

[@auntvesuvi3872]

Many thanks to Natalie, Paul and Variety! 💎 I love hearing that Natalie loved Paul's performance in NORMAL PEOPLE (2020), as did I.

[@twangology]

@variety you are guys are on fire with these Actors on Actors lately! keep them coming :)

[@jeehyeon]

Loved this one!! Want to see them in a movie together ❤️

[@Delena00]

I’ve been waiting for this one since the rollout started! ❤

[@jasonchambers4495]

Love these two.

[@eme.261]

Beautiful dialogue. Thank you.

[@alobo9937]

I think one of my top favorite movies is VOX LUX and I can't believe Natalie didn't get the recognition for it.

[@JennaLoomar]

I just need to sit one on one with Paul. We don’t even have to talk. I just wanna be in his presence

[@JG-ow7ps]

So Great to see queen Natalie back

[@natalieportmanfan1817]

❤❤❤

[@weweee_xxx5204]

i meean we should more talk about how sweet natalie is!! love her soo much

[@drendelous]

this is the blessing i needed

[@passion3131]

so unbelievably excited for paul in gladiator

[@mariemmacalvo5412]

LOVE them both! Paul is 😍

[@Jonathan22]

I love them so much