Floating around somewhere on YouTube is Jim Carrey's audition tape for 1999's Man on the Moon. It's perhaps not surprising for somebody so famously skilled in impersonation, but the tape is a masterpiece. Carrey had the role nailed before it was even his. One thing that is apparent throughout the film is that he somehow manages to be more like Kaufman than Kaufman himself. It's at times a bizarre caricature, but a performance so masterfully done that at no point does it seem over-exaggerated or corny. Just like so many of Carreys impressions, its completely believable. So dedicated was Carrey to the role, he refused to be addressed by his own name for the duration of production, instead insisting he be referred to as Andy Kaufman at all times. Perhaps going one step too far, Carrey even harassed ex-wrestler Jerry Lawler relentlessly during filming in an attempt to recreate the Kaufman vs. Lawler feud. Unfortunately for Carrey, Lawler didn't take too kindly and the harassment led to a violent altercation. Even with the wrestler's hand around his throat, Carrey still remained in character. How's that for method acting?
