I always feel Ethan Hawke seems nervous in his roles...but never when it doesn't make any sense. Most actors have to affect a sense of being nervous, but he seems to let his natural qualities come through. Of course, I can't prove this. He's just very convincing in scenes of awkwardness and attempted gestures that fail and make him seem nervous or out of place.
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shareI agree. Ethan has so much charisma. That and his scruffy good looks make him irresistible in my eyes!
shareHe was certainly that in Before Sunset and Training Day.
shareThat's an astute observation. Never would have thought to put it together, but you're right.
He used it to great effect in Dead Poet Society, and in many others.
This is a not-uncommon way to act. Some actors excel at this. Rick Moranis, Ben Stiller, Hugh Grant, Michael Cera, Jay Baruchel, Jesse Eisenberg. Usually his style is reserved for "character actors"
The main difference is that Ethan Hawke is American and has the beauty of a leading man and the depth of a great actor and a cool voice and a catchy name
And he is brilliant in choosing his roles because some people might think that he is a bad actor based on the fact that he's starred in so many forgettable movies. And some might think of him as an arthouse snob based on his indy/stage/writing forays. And some might think he is a has-been based on his 90s icon status. And some might think he is just another pretty boy. But when you add all of those things up you see a pattern of thoughtful creative choices. You see a life dedicated to making interesting art