Here's a breakdown:
* Casting against type means deliberately choosing an actor who doesn't fit the typical mold of the character they're playing.
* This can be done in terms of the actor's physical appearance, age, usual roles, or even their personality.
* The goal is to surprise the audience and create a new, unexpected interpretation of the character.
Here are some examples of casting against type:
* Heath Ledger as the Joker: Ledger was known for his handsome, brooding roles, but he transformed himself physically and emotionally to play the chaotic and unpredictable Joker.
* Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher: Streep, known for her versatile acting, took on the role of the strong, controversial British Prime Minister, despite their very different personalities.
* Daniel Day-Lewis as Christy Brown in My Left Foot: Day-Lewis, a method actor known for his intense preparation, played the role of a man with cerebral palsy, challenging the expectations of his own physical abilities.
By using casting against type, directors can create interesting and thought-provoking performances that challenge audience expectations and give a fresh perspective on familiar characters.