Paul Verhoeven Had To Get Naked To Direct This Iconic Starship Troopers Scene

In filmmaking, some moments behind the camera are as unforgettable as those captured on screen. One such story reveals the surprising lengths a director and cinematographer will go to make their actors feel comfortable — even if it means shedding their own clothes.

During the making of Starship Troopers, director Paul Verhoeven and cinematographer Jost Vacano faced a challenge that left the cast, including Dina Meyer and Casper Van Dien, feeling uneasy.

They were tasked with shooting a co-ed shower scene, and understandably, the actors were hesitant to disrobe on set. Interestingly, it was a dare that broke the ice.

When Verhoeven encouraged the actors to treat the scene like a "fashion show without fashion," Meyer, still reluctant, dared Verhoeven to lead by example. "If it's no big deal," she asked, "why don't you do it?"

Without hesitation, both Verhoeven and Vacano undressed, surprising everyone. Van Dien humorously exclaimed, “Oh God! Dina! Why!?” But the tension melted away in laughter.

Verhoeven later admitted that the move wasn’t easy, but he believed in setting an example. Vacano, who was raised in nudity camps, had no problem with it at all. Their willingness to step out of their comfort zones allowed the cast to relax and get through the scene without further discomfort.

'Starship Troopers' Director Paul Verhoeven, Alongside Casper Van Dien

TriStar Pictures/Sunset Boulevard/Corbis/Getty

Verhoeven had a clear purpose behind the infamous co-ed shower scene. He wanted to highlight the Federation's army as a place of complete gender and racial neutrality, where women and people of color hold high ranks without any issue.

In fact, he stated that it was not uncommon for male and female soldiers to shower together, adding that they are so consumed by their military duties that they don't even see nudity as erotic.

In an interview with Empire Magazine, Verhoeven reflected on the challenge of including the scene, pointing out a cultural irony: "It is strange, but of course, Americans get more upset about nudity than ultra-violence. I am constantly amazed by that... A bare breast is more difficult to get through the censors than a body riddled with bullets."

The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership

Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor and renowned author, emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in leadership and creative environments. She states that leaders who are willing to show their authentic selves can foster a culture of trust and openness, which is crucial for collaboration and innovation.

In the context of filmmaking, such vulnerability can help actors feel more secure and willing to take creative risks. By shedding his clothes, Verhoeven created a unique environment, demonstrating that discomfort can lead to powerful artistic expressions.

Troopers in Action

Starship Troopers

Casper Van Dien's Starship Troopers fame came back to haunt him. Apparently, his daughters learned about that infamous scene, and soon enough, the uncomfortable conversation found its way into the car during a routine drive home.

“I went by the line at school to pick up my kids. You know, you drive up to the school, and when I get there, there are these 6, 10, and 8-year-old boys hanging out with my daughters. I pull up in the line, and the boys go, ‘Johnny Rico! Why didn’t you tell us your dad was Johnny Rico?’ And I said, ‘What are you boys doing watching STARSHIP TROOPERS?’ And they said, ‘Our dads made us watch it with them!’”

“Then my daughters get in the car, and my 10-year-old says, ‘Dad, were you really naked in STARSHIP TROOPERS?’ And I said, ‘Yeah,’ and she said, ‘How could you do that to me?!’ Then my 8-year-old says, ‘Wait, like naked naked?’ And I said, 'Yup,' and she said, ‘Oh my God, my life is ruined!’”

Casper described it as “...the longest 3-minute ride home I have had in my life.”

In the end, it wasn’t just the daring scene that stood out but the unexpected camaraderie that brought it to life.

Sometimes, it takes a bold gesture to remind everyone that filmmaking is as much about trust and vulnerability as it is about storytelling.

A leading film psychologist, Dr. John S. McCarthy, explains that directors who engage in vulnerable actions can help reduce anxiety among their cast. He notes that this practice can bridge the power dynamic often present on set, encouraging actors to express their own vulnerabilities.

McCarthy further recommends creating a safe space for discussions about discomfort before filming intense scenes. This proactive approach can help mitigate potential unease and allow for a more authentic performance that resonates with viewers.

Behavioral Analysis & Pathways Forward

Understanding the dynamics between directors and actors highlights the importance of psychological safety in creative industries. Experts like Dr. William Doherty, family therapist, emphasize that "creating an environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves is crucial for fostering creativity and collaboration." As Verhoeven's experience exemplifies, when leaders embrace their own discomfort, it paves the way for a more open and collaborative environment. This approach is essential in filmmaking, as it cultivates a culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best work. Moving forward, directors should prioritize these discussions to foster psychological safety on set.