Why Ethan Hawke Ended Up Loving a Major Role He Used to Resent
Ethan Hawke has portrayed many iconic characters, but one of his most famous roles was initially a source of resentment for him. When Ben Stiller's Reality Bites premiered in February 1994, it became the definitive comedy capturing Generation X's slacker lifestyle.
Winona Ryder was hailed as the Gen X queen due to her roles in classics like Beetlejuice, Heathers, and Bram Stoker's Dracula. Meanwhile, Ethan Hawke had gained recognition after his rebellious character in Dead Poets Society inspired many in his peer group.
The film chronicles the post-college struggles of four friends and marked Stiller's feature directorial debut. Stiller was already known for The Ben Stiller Show, a sharp early-1990s sketch comedy, and brought some of its cast, including Janeane Garofalo and Andy Dick, into the movie.
Before its release, some hoped Stiller would poke fun at their generation’s self-importance. However, the screenplay by Helen Childress delivered an ensemble dramedy in the style of James L. Brooks, presenting all characters with relatable flaws—except possibly Hawke's character, Troy.
"I've always felt ambivalent about Reality Bites because I absolutely loathe Troy."
Despite his initial contempt, Hawke eventually grew to appreciate this complex role.
Author’s summary: Ethan Hawke transformed his early resentment toward his Reality Bites role into appreciation, recognizing the character’s depth amid a sharply observed Gen X dramedy.