Michael Fassbender Fears He Ruined His Audition for Quentin Tarantino’s Film After Oscar-Winning Role Was Already Taken: “I Called My Parents Immediately”

Quentin Tarantino stands tall as one of Hollywood’s most influential and revered directors. His ascent to prominence began with the iconic 1994 film Pulp Fiction, which not only garnered critical acclaim but also set the stage for a series of successful projects that merged artistry with box office triumphs. Tarantino’s films are characterized by their unique storytelling style, rich dialogue, and a recurring ensemble of actors who frequently collaborate with him.

Among his regular collaborators are renowned actors like Samuel L. Jackson, Eli Roth, Michael Madsen, and Harvey Keitel. However, Michael Fassbender is not typically counted among this group. While Fassbender had a steady career throughout the early 2000s, it was in the latter part of the decade that he truly began to shine. His breakout role came in the critically lauded Hunger (2008), followed by his involvement in the blockbuster franchise X-Men: First Class (2011), where he portrayed a younger Magneto. His filmography also includes standout roles in Prometheus (2012), 12 Years a Slave (2013), Steve Jobs (2015), and most recently, The Killer (2023). Yet, it was a pivotal 2009 role under Tarantino’s direction that remains embedded in the minds of audiences.

Fassbender’s Unexpected Audition Experience for Inglourious Basterds

A Different Ambition: Fassbender’s Original Role Wish

Hicox in military uniform in Inglourious Basterds

Reflecting on his audition, Fassbender expressed uncertainty about his capabilities to land the role in Inglourious Basterds. This film, which marked Tarantino’s only venture into the WWII genre, became both a critical and financial success. It intertwines the narratives of Jewish-American soldiers and a French theater owner as they plan separate strategies to eliminate Nazi officials. Fassbender plays the character Lt. Archie Hicox, notably featured in one of the film’s most intense moments involving an undercover confrontation with a clever Nazi commander.

In a candid interview with Business Insider, he revealed his initial desire to audition for the pivotal role of Colonel Hans Landa, a part that Christoph Waltz famously portrayed—ultimately winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. When Fassbender entered the audition, he was unexpectedly asked to read for Hicox, which left him feeling unprepared. Here’s his recollection:

“Originally, I wanted Landa! I had prepped about 27 hours of Landa. I was shooting ‘Fish Tank’ at the time, and my agent said, ‘They’d like you to look at Hicox as well.’ And I was like, ‘I’m not going to have time to do both.’ I came into the room and Tarantino said, ‘Okay, let’s take a look at Hicox.’ I said, ‘Do you think I could read for Landa?’ And he was like, ‘I cast Landa on Tuesday.’ I was like, ‘Okay, let’s read Hicox…’ I did a cold reading of it basically, and he read the other parts, which was super surreal and kind of intimidating. But I just went for it and I was pretty sure I blew it. I called my parents straight away after I came out and I was like, ‘I blew it. I messed it up.’

In discussing his electrifying tavern scene, Fassbender lauded August Diehl, who portrayed the menacing Gestapo officer Dieter Hellstrom. He described Diehl’s performance as “phenomenal,”noting:

“From day one in rehearsals, he was off-book and I was like, ‘Okay, I better get my sh-t together. This guy’s great.’

Despite their successful collaboration on Inglourious Basterds, Tarantino and Fassbender have yet to work together again.

Our Perspective on Fassbender’s Role in Inglourious Basterds

Hicox’s Memorable Scenes

Archie Hicox smoking a cigarette in a basement bar in Inglourious Basterds

While the role of Hans Landa is undoubtedly one of the most compelling in Inglourious Basterds, Fassbender’s portrayal of Hicox left an indelible mark on the film. The intense confrontation in the bar has become iconic, showcasing Fassbender’s ability to captivate audiences. His character’s poignant realization—when he mistakenly uses the English gesture for “three”instead of the German equivalent—has emerged as one of the film’s standout moments.

Imagining how Fassbender would have approached Landa is tempting; his interpretation might have leaned towards a more understated and serious tone. Nonetheless, Waltz’s casting proved to be an exceptional choice, while Fassbender’s Hicox remains memorable in its own right. Ultimately, Inglourious Basterds serves as a testament to Tarantino’s skill in orchestrating a remarkable cinematic experience where every element aligns perfectly.

Source: Business Insider

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