Movies - TV
Christian Bale Tries To Push The Limits
Of What
Stunts Are Considered 'Safe'
By JOE ROBERTS
Christian Bale has become known for his commitment to roles and performing outlandish on-screen acts, including standing atop the 1,450-foot tall Sears Tower for “The Dark Knight.” During the filming of “Rescue Dawn,” the actor reportedly ate a snake and maggots, telling Entertainment Weekly about his desire to push the limits of what’s considered safe on set.
The actor tested the limits during the water buffalo scene in “Rescue Dawn,” explaining, “I didn’t get onto this movie to have people do everything. Of course, there are moments where professionals are telling me that it really is hazardous [...]. So in those moments I’ll say, ‘Okay.’ But with almost everything, I always push it just to see if they’re being too safe.”
Although Bale has pushed the limits throughout his career, some stunts are beyond him, as he told Werner Herzog, “I am not going to feckin’ die for you” while filming a dangerous helicopter scene in “Rescue Dawn.” Over the years, the actor's dedication to acting has resulted in injuries and drastic physique changes, though Bale claims he is less eager about pushing the limits as he gets older.