In a story based on real-life events, Culkin took on the role of "King of the Club Kids" Michael Alig. Alig spent nearly 17 years in prison for manslaughter after he and Robert "Freeze" Riggs committed the heinous act of killing and dismembering fellow New York nightlife enthusiast Andre "Angel" Melendez in 1996. Riggs also served time for the same crime.

Preparing for the Role

To immerse himself in the character, Culkin visited Alig while he was behind bars. In 2003, he shared with Barbara Walters, "We spent a significant four hours at the prison. I had never been to such a place before. I just sat there, observing how his hands moved... He seemed to have some remorse, yet at the same time, he was putting up a facade. He was performing the 'Michael Alig' act for me, the wild and crazy guy."

This experience gave Culkin a unique insight into the psyche of a convicted criminal. It was a moment that would stay with him and shape his portrayal of Alig.

He delved deep into the details of Alig's life, trying to understand the motives and emotions that led to such a tragic event.

The Dark Side

When asked if he had a dark side himself, the then-25-year-old actor responded, "I suppose one could say that. But it's nowhere near as intense as his. It's easy for people to view me as this wicked, little being, like a blond-haired troublemaker. But that's just a surface perception."

Culkin realized that there is more to a person than meets the eye. His own experiences and the role he played made him reflect on the complexity of human nature.

He understood that even those who seem to have a dark side have their own stories and struggles.

The Glam-Rock Look

Moreover, he recounted to Bunny Ears the importance of the glam-rock look for Michael. "I always had a sense of self-importance, but that's when I truly realized how beautiful I actually was. It taught me the value of putting in the effort to look good. Women spend so much time getting ready, and it's worth it. I looked amazing."

The glam-rock look became a part of Culkin's transformation for the role. It added another layer to his portrayal and helped him connect with the character on a deeper level.

He understood the power of appearance and how it can influence one's perception of themselves and others.

A Break from the Limelight

Acknowledging his long absence from the public eye, Culkin, who was making his first movie since Ri¢hie Ri¢h, told Walters, "I don't want to repeat what I did before. Back then, it felt like people's livelihoods were at stake. They built an entire industry around me. It was a strange dynamic that made me uncomfortable for a long time. I'm not one of those people who needs to be constantly working. I'm just trying to be an artist and find my true calling."

Culkin's break from the limelight was a time for self-reflection and growth. He wanted to focus on his art and create meaningful work.

He realized that success and fame can sometimes be a double-edged sword and that it's important to follow one's own path.