Hollywood action star Chris Pratt isn’t exactly known for his Garfield-esque love of lasagna and naps. Yet, voicing the iconic orange tabby in the 2004 film “The Garfield Movie” brought about a surprising realization for the actor. In a recent interview with Reuters, Pratt revealed that Garfield’s laziness resonated too closely with his younger self.
“The Garfield Movie” follows the life of the endlessly cynical and self-serving Garfield, a cat whose primary concerns are indulging in endless meals and avoiding exertion. At the same time, the role might seem like a comedic departure for Pratt, who is known for his roles in high-octane films like “Guardians of the Galaxy,” the actor found an unexpected connection to the character.
“I ate so much all the time, and I was sluggish,” Pratt admitted, reflecting on his late twenties and early thirties. “I never exercised, and I ate a whole bunch, and it was great,” he continued laughing, acknowledging the undeniable appeal of Garfield’s lifestyle.
Pratt’s honesty is refreshing. It’s easy to forget that even the most successful celebrities weren’t always ideals of health and discipline. His revelation highlights the universality of Garfield’s character. Who hasn’t, at some point, dreamt of indulging in a life of leisure and unlimited pizza?
However, Pratt also recognizes that this period in his life is past. “I don’t have that any longer,” he says, likely referring to the carefree, Garfield-like existence. The demands of his career and, presumably, a desire for overall well-being have pushed him towards a healthier lifestyle.
Interestingly, Pratt is familiar with the world of voice acting. He’s lent his voice to the upcoming “Super Mario Bros.” movie and Pixar’s “Onward.” However, voicing Garfield presented a unique challenge. Unlike characters like Mario or Barley Lightfoot, Garfield is defined by his sarcastic wit and signature indifference. Capturing that essence through voice alone requires a specific comedic timing and delivery.
Thankfully, Pratt seems to have pulled it off. Reviews for “The Garfield Movie” were mixed, but Pratt’s voice performance was generally praised for capturing the character’s spirit. This is likely due, in part, to the unexpected personal connection he found with Garfield.
Pratt’s experience with “The Garfield Movie” serves as a reminder that even the most A-list actors have relatable pasts. It also highlights the enduring appeal of Garfield, a character whose exaggerated laziness taps into a universal human desire for comfort and indulgence. Perhaps the next time we see Chris Pratt on screen, we’ll see a hint of Garfield’s sly grin, a subtle reminder of the actor’s brush with feline lethargy.
