Willem Dafoe is a transformative actor: Sean Baker

Mumbai : American filmmaker Sean Baker says Oscar nominee Willem Dafoe is a transformative actor who can blend into anything.

The two had worked together in the 2017 film titled "The Florida Project".

While talking about how he picks actors to play lead roles in his films, the indie filmmaker said during a masterclass at the Jio MAMI 20th Mumbai Film Festival with Star on Thursday: "I work with different actors with varied degrees of experience."

Taking Dafoe's example, he said: "Willem is a transformative actor. He can blend into anything. He is enthusiastic. He has a true persona that shines through.

"He is also not a diva. He knew from the beginning that he would be surrounded by first timers and children. He was ready for the challenge."

The "Tangerine" director said he takes ideas from everyone on the set while working on his movies.

"I like hearing from everybody and not just my co-screenwriters or producers. For example, while on set, I find it valuable to turn to my PA and ask 'What do you think? Is this scene working? Do you like what you see? You got any ideas for that line there because that idea isn't working for me'.

"So, it's about collaboration and surrounding yourself with a lot of talented people to have those ideas. There are so many directors who don't like any kind of interaction on set except for producers. I am the opposite," said the filmmaker, known for dealing with social issues with humour in his films.