More than two decades after starring in Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending thriller Memento, Guy Pearce has expressed deep dissatisfaction with his performance in the film. While many cinephiles consider his portrayal of Leonard Shelby to be one of his finest roles, Pearce himself recently admitted that he can’t stand his own work in the movie.
A Personal Existential Crisis
Speaking to The Times, Pearce revealed that he recently revisited Memento and had a harsh realization about his acting. "I’m having an existential crisis," Pearce confessed.
"I watched Memento the other day and I’m still depressed. I’m shit in that movie."
Although he had never thought this before, a recent Q&A session on Memento led him to rewatch the film, and the experience left him deeply unsatisfied. "But while it was playing I realized I hate what I did," he admitted.
Fans and Critics Disagree
While Pearce may be his harshest critic, audiences and film experts have long celebrated his work in Memento. In 2000, his performance earned him multiple award nominations, including recognition from the Chicago Film Critics Association, the Boston Society of Film Critics, and the Saturn Awards. He also took home Best Actor from the San Diego Film Critics Society Awards.
For many, Memento remains a landmark in independent cinema, widely credited with propelling Christopher Nolan into the mainstream. Pearce’s gripping portrayal of a man struggling with memory loss has often been considered the heart of the film’s success.
Beyond Memento: A Career Still Thriving
Despite his self-doubt about Memento, Pearce has enjoyed a rich and diverse career in both film and television. His filmography includes celebrated titles such as:
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Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
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L.A. Confidential
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Mare of Easttown
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Prometheus
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The King’s Speech
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The Hurt Locker
Most recently, Pearce earned an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role in Brady Corbet’s historical epic The Brutalist. His performance in the film has also garnered nominations from BAFTA, Critics Choice, the Golden Globes, and the Chicago Film Critics Association.
Self-Criticism vs. Legacy
While Pearce may not hold Memento in high regard today, the film remains an essential part of his career and one of Christopher Nolan’s most beloved works. His comments, however, highlight the complex relationship actors often have with their own performances — what fans cherish, they might see as deeply flawed.
Even if Pearce wishes he could forget Memento, the rest of the world certainly hasn’t.
