The notorious David Letterman appearance
Phoenix changed his appearance to the point where he was almost unrecognizable, and even went as far as publicly announcing he was neglecting his acting career and pursuing a career as a rapper – to fully integrate with his character in the film. The announcement came on a notorious Late Show appearance, where he confided his “plans” with David Letterman, who knew nothing of the prank.
A year later, after the movie was finally released, Phoenix arrived once more to the Late Show with David Letterman, apologizing for his previous, confusing appearance. Letterman said the actor looked very disoriented, as if he was searching for himself, although the initial interview was revealed as a stunt of Phoenix and Casey Affleck – who were working on the mockumentary together.