iVillage: How important was it to play this character? This is a departure from other roles you've played.
Brad: Actually, when I first read the script, it seemed too obvious in a way in my addled brain. But I quickly got into it.

iVillage: Obvious?
Brad: I don't know. I'm not sure what it was. [Playing the] Golden Boy or something...

iVillage: Do you have an Achilles heel?
Brad: Well, yeah. But I'm not going there [laughs].

iVillage: Come on...
Brad: I don't know... [He reconsiders] It's intimacy for all of us, isn't it? Pretty much. It is for nine out of 10 people.

iVillage: You were in great shape for Troy. How'd you do it?
Brad: Yeah, it's amazing what an impending midlife crisis will do for you [laughs]. Really. I just turned 40 in December -- it got me motivated.

iVillage: You weren't scared of turning 40, though, were you?
Brad: No. Actually, I see it as a real badge of honor. I enjoyed it. No more excuses, you know? I'm responsible. I can't blame anything on my parents. I'm responsible for my mistakes and choices.