Dave Bautista is making it clear that he has no time for complainers on film sets. The actor, known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy and Dune, recently explained that he now chooses his projects based on the people involved, prioritizing a positive and respectful work environment over everything else.
His comments have sparked conversations among fans online about which Hollywood stars might be difficult to work with. Fellow actor Chris Pratt has also shared similar thoughts about the importance of a good attitude on set.
Bautista’s Stance on Set Etiquette
The actor’s comments came during an interview with Collider while promoting his new movie, Afterburn, with director J.J. Perry. When the conversation turned to the impact of working with difficult people, Bautista did not hold back. He stated that after sixteen years in the film industry, he has reached a point where he wants to enjoy his work.
โIโm just at the age and at the point of my life where lifeโs just too goddamn short,โ Bautista said. โI want to work with people I just love and respect, because I love this business. I love filmmaking, and if people donโt want to be there, I donโt want to be there with themโ.
He emphasized that acting is a passion for him and that he feels fortunate to be in his position. He expressed frustration with those who might take the opportunity for granted.
โIโm happy to be there. Itโs a love thing for me, and Iโm passionate about it,โ he continued. โI want to be there, and I want to make the most of it, so I donโt want to hear people bitching, complaining, moaning and groaning about doing something that weโre all fortunate enough to be doing and makingโ.
A Supportive Collaboration with J.J. Perry
In the same interview, Bautista highlighted his positive working relationship with director J.J. Perry on their films Afterburn and The Killer’s Game. He described Perry as an incredibly supportive director who creates a fun atmosphere on set.
Bautista said he has “never seen somebody so supportive of a cast and crew” than Perry. He praised the director’s energy and his ability to motivate people, adding that “J.J. makes filmmaking fun”.
Perry reciprocated the praise, calling Bautista a “gem” and highlighting his generosity, kindness, and talent as a lead actor and a friend.
Fan Speculation on Social Media
Following the interview, fans on platforms like Reddit began speculating about which former co-stars might have inspired Bautista’s comments. While Bautista did not name anyone, some users guessed actors known for their serious method acting approaches, such as Jared Leto (his co-star in Blade Runner 2049) or Edward Norton (his co-star in Glass Onion).
Other fans mentioned Chris Pratt, his co-star from the Guardians of the Galaxy films, but many considered this unlikely given Pratt’s own public statements against having a “crappy attitude” on set.
A Shared Sentiment in Hollywood
Bautista is not the only major star to recently speak out against negativity at work. Chris Pratt addressed the same issue during a New York Comic Con panel in October 2024.
โIt sucks when people have a crappy attitude,โ Pratt said. โSo when you show up on set, thereโs no reason why you shouldโฆ Like, โOh, are you having a hard time living your dream? Is that tough for you today?โ Like, come on and pull your head outโ.
Bautista’s Evolving Career
This stance aligns with Bautista’s long-stated goal to be recognized as a serious actor. He has actively moved beyond his wrestling persona and his breakout role as Drax in the Marvel universe, taking on diverse parts in films like Knock at the Cabin and Blade Runner 2049.
He has even changed his physical appearance, losing a significant amount of weight to fit better alongside other actors on screen. Bautista has openly discussed his desire to be in “award conversations” and to find a director who can challenge him to deliver his best performance.
Bautista’s latest film, Afterburn, is now playing in theaters. The post-apocalyptic action movie stars Bautista as a treasure hunter trying to retrieve the Mona Lisa after a global disaster. His upcoming projects include the action thriller Trap House and the science-fiction movie Alpha Gang.
Also Read: Dave Bautista Criticizes Donald Trumpโs Persona on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Gym Video Goes Viral
