Sydney Sweeney Says She Tries to ‘Lose Myself Completely for a Role’ While Detailing Preparation to Play a Boxer in “Christy”

Sydney Sweeney Receives Prestigious Award for her Outstanding Performance in ‘Christy’ at HIFF

At the 2025 Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF), Sydney Sweeney was awarded the Achievement in Acting award for her role as real-life boxer Christy Martin in the film ‘Christy’. The festival took place on Saturday, October 4th, where Sweeney, known for her immersive performances, spoke about her intense preparation for the challenging role.

During a post-screening Q&A session with HIFF Chief Creative Officer David Nugent, Sweeney shared insights into her portrayal of Christy Martin. She revealed that Martin, who is now 57, was actively involved in the production and was often present on set during filming. Sweeney described Martin as becoming like a best friend to her, which greatly influenced her performance.

This experience was a first for Sweeney, as she expressed, “I’ve never had the person who I’m portraying watch me. You’re never really sure what they’re thinking.” However, having Martin’s presence on set allowed Sweeney to study her closely, gaining valuable insights and incorporating them into her performance.

Sweeney opened up about her approach to acting, stating, “I try to lose myself completely for a role, so I try not to carry any of my own stuff into their life. But I honestly learned so much from Christy that I applied to myself.” This dedication to embodying her characters fully demonstrates Sweeney’s commitment to delivering authentic performances.

In preparation for the role of a boxer, Sweeney shared details of her physical transformation. Growing up kickboxing and grappling from a young age, she dedicated three months to rigorous training for the film. Her daily routine included weight training, boxing sessions, and strict nutrition under the guidance of a professional. Sweeney’s dedication resulted in a significant physical transformation, gaining 35 lbs for the role.

‘Christy’ not only delves into the world of boxing but also addresses sensitive themes such as domestic violence. Sweeney emphasised the importance of portraying these real-life issues with sensitivity and understanding, hoping that the film will resonate with audiences and spark important conversations.

Directed by David Michôd, ‘Christy’ features a stellar cast including Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, and Katy O’Brian. The film follows Christy Martin’s journey from her small-town roots in West Virginia to becoming a pioneering female boxer. As her career flourishes, Christy faces personal challenges that test her grit and determination both inside and outside the ring.

In addition to her role in ‘Christy’, Sweeney is set to star in the upcoming thriller ‘The Housemaid’ alongside Amanda Seyfried. Her versatility and commitment to her craft continue to earn her accolades, making her a rising star in the industry.

The Hamptons International Film Festival showcases exceptional talent and celebrates outstanding achievements in filmmaking. Alongside Sweeney’s recognition, other awards at the festival include UBS Breakthrough Performer and UBS Breakthrough Director, highlighting emerging talents in the film industry.

As audiences anticipate the release of ‘Christy’ on November 7th, Sweeney’s portrayal of the inspiring boxer is poised to captivate viewers with its compelling narrative and powerful performances. Stay tuned for more updates on Sydney Sweeney’s career and future projects.

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