DiCaprio says he hasn't seen 'Titanic'

Discusses with Jennifer acting challenges, personal growth and key influences

In a revealing conversation for Variety's Actors on Actors series, Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence engaged in an in-depth discussion about their careers, creative choices, and collaborations with some of the world's most acclaimed directors. The hour-long dialogue offered audiences rare insight into the inner workings of two of Hollywood's most respected actors, exploring not only the mechanics of their craft but also their personal journeys, professional challenges, and evolving approaches to storytelling.

The conversation focused on DiCaprio's lead role in Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another and Lawrence's portrayal of a mother grappling with postpartum depression in Lynne Ramsay's Die My Love. Both actors described the demands of inhabiting complex characters, emphasizing the delicate balance between psychological authenticity and narrative storytelling. DiCaprio highlighted the careful preparation required to play Bob, a revolutionary struggling to reconcile his ideals with the realities of a modern world. "It's about finding the subtle nuances in his decisions," he said. "Working with Paul means you're constantly exploring not just what the character does, but why he does it—and that requires a deep, almost surgical attention to detail."

Lawrence, meanwhile, discussed the intensity of portraying a new mother experiencing postpartum depression, praising Ramsay's poetic approach to visual storytelling. "Lynne's focus on texture, silence, and movement allows the audience to feel the isolation and confusion of this character," she explained. "It's an intimate, almost visceral experience to inhabit someone who's navigating that kind of emotional landscape." She noted that the film demanded vulnerability and self-reflection, requiring her to confront her own perceptions of parenthood, mental health, and societal expectations surrounding motherhood.

One surprising revelation from the conversation was DiCaprio's admission that he has never watched Titanic, the 1997 blockbuster that catapulted him to global stardom and remains a cultural touchstone. "I haven't seen it before," he said candidly. Lawrence encouraged him to watch it, noting the film's iconic status and enduring impact. The exchange highlighted DiCaprio's humility and willingness to separate his personal experiences from the public's perception of his career, a trait that has allowed him to take on diverse and often challenging roles without being typecast.

Both actors delved into the meticulous work behind One Battle After Another and Die My Love, emphasizing the emotional depth and societal context inherent in each story. Lawrence praised Ramsay's ability to capture nuanced human experiences on screen, particularly the emotional isolation of new parenthood, while DiCaprio reflected on the collaborative process with Anderson, stressing the importance of dialogue and experimentation in shaping his character. "You're never just performing lines," he said. "Every gesture, every pause, has meaning. And when you work with a director like Paul, those details are what make a performance resonate."

The conversation also provided insight into the actors' early experiences in the industry. DiCaprio recalled his start on Growing Pains at the age of twelve, noting how early exposure to professional sets taught him discipline, observation, and adaptability. Lawrence reflected on her first commercial for MTV's Super Sweet 16, recounting the thrill and challenges of stepping into the professional world at a young age. Both spoke about the guidance they received from mentors, emphasizing how essential such support was in navigating the pressures of fame and sustaining long-term careers.

Lawrence highlighted the mentorship of director David O. Russell, describing his directness as formative for her craft. "David pushed me to confront uncomfortable truths about the character and myself," she said. "It's that kind of honesty that helps you grow as an actor." DiCaprio, in turn, reflected on his method of closely observing the filmmaking process, learning from directors and co-stars alike. He emphasized the value of patience, continuous study, and the importance of approaching every project with curiosity and humility.

Throughout the discussion, both actors spoke openly about the personal challenges of balancing childhood work with personal growth and the ongoing process of refining their craft. They also addressed the pressures of public scrutiny, particularly as it pertains to their performances, choices, and the reception of their films. Lawrence spoke candidly about the vulnerability required to perform emotionally intense roles under constant observation, while DiCaprio noted the responsibility that comes with portraying real-life stories or socially significant narratives.

The dialogue concluded with mutual admiration, highlighting not only their shared experiences but also their dedication to the art of acting. Both Lawrence and DiCaprio emphasized the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning, underscoring the notion that acting is an evolving craft rather than a static achievement. Their reflections offered viewers a rare glimpse into the dedication, preparation, and introspection required to sustain successful careers in Hollywood while remaining true to one's artistic vision.

Ultimately, the conversation showcased the depth of their craft, their commitment to authenticity, and their ongoing journey to master the art of storytelling. From early experiences on set to working with visionary directors, DiCaprio and Lawrence demonstrated that even established actors continue to grow, adapt, and push the boundaries of their performances, reaffirming their status as two of the most thoughtful and accomplished performers of their generation.