Viggo Mortensen Names the One David Cronenberg Movie He Calls Near Perfect

Viggo Mortensen has worked with many talented directors over the years, but his collaborations with David Cronenberg stand out as particularly special. The two first teamed up on the 2005 thriller ‘A History of Violence,’ where Mortensen played Tom Stall, a seemingly ordinary family man whose past catches up with him in shocking ways. He has often spoken highly of the experience, crediting Cronenberg with turning a weak initial script into something remarkable. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Mortensen opened up about why this film holds such a high place in his career.

Mortensen admitted that he found the early version of the script disappointing and even senseless at first. Everything changed once he met Cronenberg, who reshaped the material with skill and vision. The actor praised how tightly the story was handled, from the direction to the cinematography, making it feel like a classic example of the genre. He went so far as to say there is no truly perfect movie, but this one comes remarkably close in its execution as a film noir.

The story centers on Tom defending his small-town diner from armed robbers, only to reveal hidden talents that draw dangerous attention. Co-starring Ed Harris and William Hurt, the film earned strong reviews and showcased Mortensen’s ability to blend quiet intensity with explosive action. Cronenberg’s approach allowed the actor to deliver one of his most layered performances, exploring themes of identity, violence, and family secrets. Mortensen has noted that Cronenberg understands his process deeply, helping him reach levels he hasn’t always achieved with others.

Their successful partnership did not stop there. They reunited for the 2007 crime drama ‘Eastern Promises,’ where Mortensen played a Russian mob driver in a story full of brutal realism and unexpected depth. Later came the 2011 release ‘A Dangerous Method,’ a biographical drama about early psychoanalysis. Through these projects, Mortensen and Cronenberg developed a strong creative bond built on mutual respect, shared humor, and a willingness to push boundaries. The actor has described how Cronenberg creates an environment where performers feel free to explore without pressure.

Mortensen appreciates how Cronenberg elevates scripts and brings out stronger work from his cast. He believes their collaborations rank among the best in his filmography, far removed from blockbuster roles like those in fantasy epics. The praise for ‘A History of Violence’ highlights its precise storytelling and atmospheric tension, elements that make it endure as a standout thriller. Many viewers and critics agree it captures the essence of film noir while adding modern psychological layers.

What draws fans back to these films is the combination of sharp direction and committed acting. Mortensen’s portrayal in ‘A History of Violence’ earned him widespread acclaim and showed his range beyond action-oriented parts. The movie’s quiet moments and sudden bursts of violence create a lasting impact, proving Cronenberg’s skill at blending genre elements with deeper human drama.

Share your thoughts on ‘A History of Violence’ or your favorite Cronenberg film in the comments.