Mike Faist credits Zendaya for igniting his interest in photography, leading to 'The Bikeriders'

Mike Faist, the rising star known for his roles in "West Side Story" and "Challengers," recently opened up about his experience working on the upcoming film "The Bikeriders" directed by Jeff Nichols.

Faist was drawn to the project for several reasons, including the opportunity to work close to his hometown in Ohio and to play the role of renowned photographer Danny Lyon.

Faist's interest in photography was sparked by his "Challengers" co-star Zendaya, who encouraged him to explore the art form. This newfound passion proved to be serendipitous when Nichols offered him the role of Lyon, a photojournalist documenting a Chicago-area motorcycle club in the 1960s. Faist spent time with Lyon, learning about his life and work, and even documenting the "Bikeriders" set with his own camera.

The actor emphasized to the Hollywood Reporter the importance of maintaining a life outside of work, echoing Bryan Cranston's sentiment about the need for fresh experiences to fuel creativity. Faist stated that acting should never feel like a job, and he only takes on projects that genuinely spark his interest.

Faist also shared an anecdote about working with Steven Spielberg on "West Side Story," where he learned the value of "I don't know." He recalled a moment when Spielberg was unsure how to shoot a scene and confided in Faist that he hadn't figured it out yet. This experience taught Faist the importance of staying open to possibilities and allowing answers to reveal themselves organically.

Overall, Faist's insights offer a glimpse into his thoughtful approach to acting and his commitment to personal growth. He values authenticity, collaboration, and the pursuit of projects that resonate with him on a deeper level.