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Simon Rex is often regarded as a “that guy” actor—a familiar face that audiences recognize, even if his name doesn’t immediately ring a bell. His rise to fame began with the “Scary Movie” series, followed by roles in numerous lighthearted comedies such as “National Lampoon’s Pledge This!” and “Superhero Movie.” However, the San Francisco-born actor showcased his versatility in the 2021 film “Red Rocket,” now available on Netflix, proving he can deliver more than just comedic performances.
A24
While “Red Rocket” contains humorous elements, it diverges into much darker territory compared to Rex’s usual roles. He portrays Mikey “Saber” Davies, a former adult film star who returns to his Texas roots after hitting a rough patch, in hopes of piecing his life back together. Directed by Sean Baker, who later earned an Oscar for best director with “Anora,” a film celebrated for its leading performance by Mikey Madison, Rex’s role in “Red Rocket” is pivotal to its success.
Interestingly, Baker had Rex in mind when conceptualizing the lead character for “Red Rocket.” Reflecting on the film’s development, Baker shared with The Film Experience, “Five years ago when this idea came up, I was speaking to one of my producers, and I said, ‘If we ever make this film… this guy!’” He even pointed to one of Rex’s Vines or Instagram posts for inspiration, though the project was initially set aside for another film. If you’ve only seen Rex in “Scary Movie,” his performance in “Red Rocket” offers a refreshing perspective.
Although “Red Rocket” did not garner the same awards buzz as “Anora,” it was met with critical acclaim, boasting a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised Rex’s portrayal, with Alex Godfrey from Empire magazine describing it as “a beguiling and beautiful film about a total toerag.” He added, “Mikey Saber will charm your socks off, and you’ll hate him for it.” While the Academy may have overlooked “Red Rocket,” Rex’s performance earned him several accolades, including best male lead at the Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Sean Baker’s films often delve into themes surrounding marginalized communities. “Red Rocket” centers on a former adult film star, while his earlier works like “Tangerine” (2015) focus on a transgender sex worker, and “The Florida Project” (2017) portrays a young girl and her mother grappling with poverty while living in a motel. “Anora,” another of Baker’s films, follows the life of an exotic dancer.
Red Rocket is a typical Sean Baker movie
A24
Unlike directors who might stigmatize or ignore these characters, Baker’s work humanizes them, flaws and all. Mikey in “Red Rocket” stands out as perhaps Baker’s most morally questionable protagonist. Despite his manipulative and self-absorbed nature, Rex infuses the character with a certain charm. For those curious, “Red Rocket” is streaming on Netflix, and yes, Rex does wear a prosthetic in those particular scenes.
One thing you may start to notice if you watch enough Sean Baker films is that he tends to explore similar subject matter, namely people within marginalized communities. Mikey in “Red Rocket” is a former adult film star. 2015’s “Tangerine” follows a transgender sex worker, while 2017’s “The Florida Project” is about a little girl and her mother living in poverty and trying to survive at a motel. And, of course, the titular character in “Anora” works as an exotic dancer.
Many filmmakers overlook or demonize these types of people, but Baker’s movies take care to show them all as undeniably human, flaws and all. Mikey in “Red Rocket” is probably Baker’s most despicable protagonist yet. He’s deeply narcissistic and has no issue with exploiting others, so it’s a testament to Rex that he still manages to make Mikey somewhat charming. You can check out “Red Rocket” on Netflix, but just to answer the question now: Yes, Rex is wearing a prosthetic during those scenes.
