In a recent interview on Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum, actor Kumail Nanjiani spoke candidly about the emotional toll of promoting a movie that received harsh reviews. Nanjiani revealed that after completing the press circuit for Marvel's Eternals in 2021, he ended up seeking counseling due to the negative reception of the film.
The reviews for Eternals were far from favorable, with the movie currently holding a 47 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This made it one of the lowest-rated entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Nanjiani admitted that it was exceptionally challenging because Marvel had high expectations for the film's reception. They even lifted the embargo early and sent the cast on a global tour to promote the movie right as the negative reviews were pouring in.
Reflecting on the situation, Nanjiani believes there were external factors contributing to the film's critical reception. He expressed his belief that the quality of the movie wasn't the primary reason for the negative reviews. Nonetheless, it had a significant impact on him personally and put a strain on his relationship with his wife, Emily V. Gordon.
The experience affected Nanjiani so deeply that he decided to seek counseling to help him cope with the emotional aftermath. He continues to see a therapist, with his wife acknowledging that he carries some trauma from that period. Nanjiani also revealed that he recently had a dinner with another cast member from Eternals, where they all discussed how challenging the experience was for each of them. It seems they all went through a similar ordeal.
Beyond the film's critical reception, Nanjiani had attracted attention before the movie's release due to his remarkable physical transformation for the role. He had worked intensely with trainers and nutritionists for a year, thanks to the support from Marvel Studios. However, he admitted feeling uncomfortable discussing his body in the aftermath of the transformation.
In an interview with GQ, Nanjiani shared his discomfort, stating that he had realized over the past year and a half that talking about his appearance had become increasingly uncomfortable for him. He recognized that his physical transformation would not have been possible without the extensive resources and time provided by Marvel.
These revelations from Kumail Nanjiani offer a glimpse into the emotional challenges that can arise when an actor is associated with a poorly received film. It highlights the pressure they face, the toll it can take on their mental well-being, and the importance of seeking support. Nanjiani's openness about his experiences serves as a reminder that celebrities, like everyone else, can be vulnerable to the psychological impact of critical reception and public scrutiny.
