Matthias Schoenaerts Biography

Fast Facts

• Won the New Auteurs Award at AFI Fest 2011 for his performance as cattle worker Jacky in "Bullhead․"
• Won a Best Newcomer Award at the 2013 César Awards for "Rust and Bone․"
• Won the Next Wave Award at Fantastic Fest for "Bullhead․"
• Completed his studies at the Academy of Dramatic Arts in Antwerp
• Made his film debut at the age of 15, and the film, "Daens," was nominated for an Oscar
• Quote: "[on "The Drop"] "My character, he does despicable things, but is he absolutely a bad person? No․""
• Quote: "[on "The Drop"] "This is a universe of misfits․ What ties these people together is their ability to be alone․""
• Prefers to act in films that present compelling stories and characters over Hollywood blockbusters
• Though he first gained recognition for physically imposing roles in "Bullhead" and "Rust and Bone," other films like "Death of a Shadow" showcase his versatility as an actor
• Played a role in the most successful Flemish film at the Belgian box-office, "Loft," in 2008