close
close

James McAvoy says he “failed miserably” in previous films and was “slaughtered” by critics

Your support helps us tell the story

In my reporting on women's reproductive rights, I have seen the critical role that independent journalism plays in protecting freedoms and informing the public.

Your support allows us to keep these important issues in the spotlight. Without your help, we could not fight for truth and justice.

Every contribution ensures that we can continue to report on the stories that impact lives

Kelly Rissman

US news reporter

James McAvoy has reflected on “failure” in film and stage projects, claiming he was “slaughtered” by critics for his worst efforts.

The Scottish actor, who was celebrated for his roles in films such as The last king of Scotland, atonementAnd dirtsaid he could tolerate criticism because he was “numb” to it.

He quoted the play The film role of the hanged man as an example of a work that was very poorly received at the beginning of his career.

“That was hard,” he said The Guardian“Only one critic liked my performance in it, and he misspelled my name.”

McAvoy continued: “I think I've become jaded because my whole life I've been either applauded or booed on screens and stages, and it's a gamble. I don't always win that bet. I can handle criticism because I've failed on both platforms, and failed badly, and I handle it well.”

“I've been in films that were either devastating or dismissed with so little praise that you knew no one would see them.”

Although he did not specify which films he was referring to, McAvoy has starred in a number of poorly received films, including X-Men: ApocalypseTennis drama Wimbledonand M Night Shyamalan Thriller Glass.

James McAvoy in “Speak No Evil”
James McAvoy in “Speak No Evil” (Universal)

“If I see a good movie or a good play, I'd rather be in a good play,” he continued. “But if I see a bad movie or a bad play, I'd 100 percent rather be in a bad movie: you get paid more, the audience isn't there, nobody can boo you, and then by the time the movie comes out, a year has passed and you don't even have to see it.”

McAvoy’s next project is Speak no evila dark thriller in which he plays one half of a couple who invites another couple to their holiday home.

Apple TV+ logo

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days

New subscribers only. £8.99/month after free trial. Plan automatically renews until cancelled.

Try for free

Apple TV+ logo

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days

New subscribers only. £8.99/month after free trial. Plan automatically renews until cancelled.

Try for free

A remake of the 2022 Danish film of the same name. Speak no evil Aisling Franciosi, Mackenzie Davis and Scoot McNairy also star.

In another interview, McAvoy revealed that his “toxic” character in the film was inspired by misogynistic influencer Andrew Tate.

You may also like...