20 Years Ago, Amanda Seyfried’s Unexpected Breakthrough Role: “I Want to Go Home, I’m Tired”

In 2006, Amanda Seyfried played Julie Beckley, the girlfriend of Zack Mazursky (Anton Yelchin), a murder victim, in Nick Cassavetes’ crime drama “Alpha Dog.” The film also featured Emile Hirsch, Justin Timberlake, Sharon Stone, and Bruce Willis.

Yet, at the time of her audition—likely at her agent’s behest—the actress, who was rising in fame after her role in “Mean Girls,” did not hide her lack of interest in the project.

An Audition Filled with Discomfort

According to Matthew Barry (via WhatCulture), one of the film’s casting directors, Seyfried sat down for the audition and immediately broke into tears, stating, “I don’t want to be here. I want to go home, I’m tired, I miss my family, and I don’t want to be in your stupid movie.“

Instead of ending the session, Barry and his team decided to explore the reasons behind her reluctance. The actress then spoke at length about the film and the character, while again expressing her desire to leave.

Landing the Role Despite Everything

The casting director explained that he extended the conversation while she remained in tears, admitting that “she had landed the role within three minutes.”

At that point, the star of “The Maid” was not looking for excessive financial compensation or apologies from the studio: she simply wanted to go home. Ultimately, thanks to the persistence of the casting directors, a compromise was reached.

“Alpha Dog” is available on VOD, as well as on DVD and Blu-ray.

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