Jake Gyllenhaal tasered for End of Watch

Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Pena in a scene from End of Watch. Photo/AP

Jake Gyllenhaal was tasered while researching his new movie.

The Brokeback Mountain actor went out with police to learn his role as a cop in the upcoming film End Of Watch.

They asked if he wanted to feel what it was like to have the debilitating electrical current run through his body.

He said yes, and regretted it immediately.

"I got tasered, which wasn't as funny at the time," he said.

"The guys asked me if I wanted to feel what it was like I said, 'Yeah, f**k it.' They put a wire on my chest, the other one on my leg and let the current run through me. It was five seconds, but it was jarring."

Discussing his career, Gyllenhaal admits he has been close to playing superheroes in a number of films previously, but now claims he is more focused on being a better actor rather than winning a particular part.

He told ShortList magazine: "At a certain point, you realise there's always some more interesting, talented and ready to do a role than you are - and you won't get every role you for.

"All I want right now is to hone my skills and become a better actor, not dream about wearing a cape. But you never know."

- Bang! Showbiz