Chase Infiniti ‘Stole’ These Acting Tips from Leonardo DiCaprio to Use in “The Testaments” (Exclusive)

Chase Infiniti, the lead actress in the new Hulu series “The Testaments,” is drawing from the valuable lessons she learned while working alongside Leonardo DiCaprio on the set of “One Battle After Another.” At just 25 years of age, Infiniti is stepping into the spotlight as she navigates the transition to a leading role in this sequel to “The Handmaid’s Tale,” based on Margaret Atwood’s acclaimed novel published in 2019.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Infiniti shared her insights from DiCaprio, who is well-regarded not only for his significant contributions to cinema but also for his exemplary leadership qualities. “I think the thing I learned the most from Leo is he’s just such an incredible, gentle leader, and I really admired that,” she reflected. The actress was particularly struck by DiCaprio’s professionalism and the kindness he extended to everyone on set, regardless of their position.

Infiniti mentioned that witnessing how someone of DiCaprio’s stature conducts themselves with humility and respect was inspirational. “I was awed that somebody at that level in their career would make an effort to be just a kind human being to everybody on set,” she stated. These key characteristics—leadership, professionalism, and kindness—are qualities that Infiniti has consciously sought to integrate into her role in “The Testaments.”

As she took on the responsibilities of being the lead, Infiniti expressed her commitment to creating a supportive environment on set. “I tried my best to be a leader in any sense,” she explained. Her goal was to be approachable and available to her co-stars, ready to lend an ear or offer support during challenging times. “If somebody just needed a shoulder to cry on or another opinion in something that might be happening, whether it’s on set or in real life,” she said, highlighting her desire to foster a sense of community.

Infiniti emphasised the importance of ensemble dynamics in both “One Battle After Another” and “The Testaments.” “Both of those projects thrived in community,” she remarked. As “The Testaments” is also an ensemble-heavy project, she believes that uplifting one another is crucial to achieving success. Her focus on camaraderie mirrors DiCaprio’s influence on her, showcasing how she hopes to shape the atmosphere on set into a collaborative and nurturing space.

In “The Testaments,” Infiniti portrays Agnes, the daughter of a powerful commander from the dystopian regime of Gilead. Agnes finds herself enrolled in an elite preparatory school run by the formidable Aunt Lydia, played by Ann Dowd. This new series picks up 15 years after the conclusion of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” and introduces audiences to both Agnes and Daisy, a rebellious newcomer portrayed by Lucy Halliday. Together, they must navigate the harsh realities enforced by their institution, which is steeped in oppressive traditions and brutal obedience.

The bond between Agnes and Daisy becomes the focal point of the story, ultimately guiding them toward personal transformation and resistance against the oppressive structures that surround them. The series promises to offer a gripping exploration of female empowerment and subversion within a repressive society.

Infiniti is not alone in her mission to create compelling narratives. The cast of “The Testaments,” which also includes Rowan Blanchard, Amy Seimetz, and Mattea Conforti, has been assembled under the watchful eye of executive producer Elisabeth Moss, who is well-known for her pivotal role in “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Despite a late introduction to Moss, Infiniti described their meeting as a heartfelt moment filled with encouragement.

“I didn’t get to meet Elisabeth Moss really until the end [of filming],” Infiniti recounted. “But when we did meet, it was a special moment. She kind of immediately after I met her, wrapped me into a big hug and was like, ‘You got this. You got this. Okay? You got it.'” This exchange underscored the supportive network cultivated both on and off camera.

“The Testaments” has begun streaming its first three episodes on Hulu, with new episodes releasing weekly on Wednesdays. As viewers tune in to this highly anticipated series, it is clear that Infiniti’s experiences with DiCaprio have shaped her approach to the project, allowing her to lead with empathy and strength. With the foundation of community and collaboration set firmly in place, the upcoming episodes promise to delve into profound themes while highlighting the resilience of its characters in the face of adversity.