Ethical acting: should actors roles align with their politics?

When an actor takes the role of a character on the screen, they’re expected to embody them to provide a convincing portrayal. There’s plenty of films where the real actor can seep into the character; the scene a genuine outlet for actor and character alike. But such outlets don’t inherently need to be emotional. 

Some roles are always politically charged. Whether a portrayal of a real life individual or fictional, there will always be character whose politics are fundamental to their identity on the screen. And to ensure a genuine outlet - do we have the right to expect only those who can politically identify with a character to portray them?

I don’t think so. While you can argue a portrayal of a character with whom the actor politically aligns with could feasibly give more ‘soul’ to any display of their beliefs, or could consider a role of significance, I think it’s thoroughly limiting. It’s a testament to an actor’s maturity and capability to approach a role they themselves may not align with politically, and provide an astounding performance. There’s a role which foremost comes to mind for me: and it’s Bruno Ganz in Downfall.

Downfall captures the final days of the Third Reich, and the absolute desperation & hopelessness of the Nazi Party, and Bruno Ganz’s portrayal of Adolf Hitler is arguably a testament to why I don’t believe we should limit by political alignment.

Ganz has openly voiced his distaste for Hitler. In his own words, “I could not get to the heart of Hitler, for there was none.” But his dedication and research to the role impresses me. He doesn’t exaggerate Hitler, he portrayed him as eyewitness testimony recorded him in the final days of Germany. Charming in social gatherings, utterly remorseless when regarding the fate of the nation he had brought under his spell. He reveals the 'human' of Hitler, the nuanced and complex individual. By no means a redemption, not in the slightest. But rather a chilling reminder that one of the evilest men to ever exist, was human.

By all means, an actor opposing a character’s politics could lead to exaggeration, or a mocking display. But I thoroughly believe it’s a litmus test. It’s a litmus test of an actor’s integrity, professionalism and dedication to the role. Also, it means we don’t need to give limelight to fascist actors. Nifty, right?