Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s career may span all the way back to the early ‘90s—he starred in “Angels in the Outfield” in 1994 then went on to be a fan-favorite scene stealer on “3rd Rock From the Sun”—but it took a series of critically acclaimed turns in little-known indies to transition from child star to one of today’s most bankable leading men. He stars next in "The Walk," in theaters October 9.
Look no further than his no-holds-barred performance in Gregg Araki’s 2004 indie, “Mysterious Skin.” The 23-year-old Gordon-Levitt plays Neil, a gay male hustler, son of a single mother, and a victim of sexual abuse. The role required him to bare more than just skin, and it’s clear even from this audition tape that he captures the nuances of a troubled teen that’s as cocksure as he is damaged.
Want to see more? Check out “9 Great Actors’ Audition Tapes!”