Josh Brolin has had enough of 'man caves' and men who don’t talk

Josh Brolin has long embraced the concept of the "strong, silent type," a man who conveys deep emotions without saying much. This archetype is exemplified by his characters in films such as No Country for Old Men and Dune, where he plays men who appear tough on the outside but possess a softer, more imaginative side. Brolin, 58, spoke candidly about his experiences and perspectives in an interview with The National.

He began journaling at a young age, which allowed him to be honest about his thoughts and feelings, a practice that continued to influence his acting career.

Brolin's characters often challenge traditional notions of masculinity. In Ridley Scott's The Dog Stars, he portrays Bangley, a military survivor in a post-apocalyptic world. Bangley's silent strength is evident, yet Brolin notes that Bangley's actions often speak more than his words. For instance, a moment where Bangley gently touches the window of an airplane conveys a depth of emotion that words could not.

Brolin emphasizes that such subtle expressions of emotion are crucial, especially in a time when masculinity is often equated with silence.

Reflecting on his own upbringing, Brolin acknowledges the pressure he and other children faced to become tough. However, he is now in a position to shape the expectations for his own children, who are all women. He expresses a desire for his children to avoid the hardships he endured. Despite his own robust physicality, Brolin is conscious of his appearance and the messages it sends about emotional vulnerability. He deliberately allows his emotions to show, even if it challenges conventional standards of masculinity.

Brolin's views on masculinity are evolving. He criticizes the notion that "men don't talk" and "we like our man caves," arguing that these are outdated ideas. He credits his strong mother for instilling in him the importance of emotional expression. Brolin is now more comfortable with being himself at 58, a sentiment he holds at a high regard. In August 2025, his latest film, The Dog Stars, will be released in UAE cinemas.