The Film Jude Law Regrets Starring In
Since the 1997 film Gattaca, Jude Law has been stealing our hearts with his talent and good looks. In a recent interview with Deadline; however, the 51-year-old admitted regretting working on a certain film.
Which movie was it? Well, Law says that the Alfie remake from 2004 might have been a “bad move.” At the time, Law had just starred in other award-worthy movies like Cold Mountain in 2003 and The Talented Mr. Ripley in 1999.
“I was in a really strong position because I’d just had another nomination on the back of Cold Mountain, and for Alfie to be the film I chose to do quite soon after that, I think was a bad move,” Law confessed to British GQ.
Michael Caine played the titular character in the original 1996 production while Alan Price portrayed the same character in the sequel Alfie Darling. After Law saw his own performance, the English actor felt that the remake fell short of expectations.
“I just felt it hadn’t elevated [the material] and felt a little light, a little too cheesy,” he reflected. “I think it was made for too much money, and I was probably paid too much money, which I underestimated at the time.”
He added, “I kicked myself that I’d done something that was leaning into the heartthrob and the charismatic lead and it hadn’t worked.”
What Is Alfie About?
In the 2004 version, Law plays the role of a limousine driver who is addicted to sex. His obsession pushes him to enjoy affairs with the rich women he drives for. Though he tries to be monogamous, he still winds up hurting his partners.
The Alfie remake featured a star-studded cast, harnessing the talents of popular performers like Susan Sarandon, Marisa Tomei, Sienna Miller, Jane Krakowski, Nia Long, and Omar Epps.
It grossed 35$ million in the international box office but had a $60 million budget. The film earned 6.2 stars out of 10 on IMDb.
Despite the impressive lineup, Alfie didn’t resonate with audiences as expected, leaving Law questioning the film’s direction and his role in it. Reflecting on his career, he admitted that he now prioritizes projects that challenge him creatively rather than those that might reinforce his “heartthrob” status.
Though Alfie may not be a highlight on his resume, Law’s self-awareness and openness about missteps have only strengthened his appeal. His career since then has been a series of complex, nuanced roles that showcase his evolution as an actor—proving that even the most charming stars learn from their regrets.
