Christopher Nolan Reflects on 'Interstellar' Scene He Didn't Like

Director says Timothee Chalamet performed the emotional moment his own way despite Nolan's reservations.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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In a recent discussion, director Christopher Nolan revealed that there was one scene in his 2014 sci-fi epic 'Interstellar' that he 'didn't particularly like.' Nolan said he felt Timothee Chalamet, who played the teenage son of Matthew McConaughey's character, struck a 'darker tone' in one take of an emotional video message sequence. However, Nolan noted that Chalamet had carefully planned his performance choices, and the director ultimately trusted the actor's instincts in the editing process. Despite the film's mixed initial reception, 'Interstellar' has grown in stature over time, with audiences connecting to its emotional core.

Why it matters

Nolan's reflection on the creative process behind 'Interstellar' provides insight into how a director and actor can collaborate to shape a powerful emotional moment, even when their initial visions differ. The story also highlights how a film's legacy can evolve over time as audiences connect with its themes and performances.

The details

During a recent IMAX 70mm screening of 'Interstellar' at AMC Universal CityWalk in Los Angeles, Nolan and Chalamet discussed the film's origins and production. Nolan explained that the script, originally written by his brother Jonathan for Steven Spielberg, was reworked to focus more on the father-son relationship at the heart of the story. Chalamet, who played the teenage son Tom, said the film remains his favorite project of his career so far.

  • In 2014, 'Interstellar' was released in theaters worldwide.
  • Over a decade later, the film 'continues to resonate' with audiences.

The players

Christopher Nolan

An Oscar-winning director known for films like 'Inception,' 'Dunkirk,' and 'The Dark Knight' trilogy.

Timothee Chalamet

An acclaimed actor who played the teenage son Tom in 'Interstellar.'

Matthew McConaughey

The lead actor in 'Interstellar,' playing the role of Cooper, the father of Chalamet's character.

Jonathan Nolan

Christopher Nolan's brother, who originally wrote the script for 'Interstellar' before it was reworked.

Steven Spielberg

The acclaimed director who was initially attached to 'Interstellar' before the project moved to Christopher Nolan.

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What they’re saying

“Though my role is not enormous in 'Interstellar,' I think I was number 12 on the call sheet, this film came to me at a time in life, in my career, where things were certainly not set yet. And it's remained my favorite project I've ever been in.”

— Timothee Chalamet (Variety)

“It felt too much for me. I didn't particularly like it. I told you about it and you went ahead and did whatever the f-- you wanted.”

— Christopher Nolan, Director (Variety)

What’s next

The continued legacy and impact of 'Interstellar' will likely be a topic of discussion as the film approaches its 15th anniversary in the coming years.

The takeaway

Nolan's reflection on the creative collaboration with Chalamet highlights how a director and actor can work together to shape a powerful emotional moment, even when their initial visions differ. This story underscores the evolving nature of a film's legacy as audiences connect with its themes and performances over time.