Jake Gyllenhaal on movie relationships

Jake Gyllenhaal's latest film feels "like an afterthought" as he made such great friends on set.

The Hollywood actor stars alongside Michael Peña in gritty action-drama End of Watch. The pair portray Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) partners and although the film has garnered rave reviews, Jake insists the personal connections to the movie have had more impact on him.

"The film changed my life. I have three really close friends from the production process. The movie to me almost feels like an afterthought," he gushed to British newspaper The Guardian.

In End of Watch, Jake and Michael's characters constantly jokingly refer to their Caucasian and Hispanic roots.

The 31-year-old star says the characters' relationship is much like his real life friendships.

"My best friends in the world, we express our love for each other through a whole lot of sh*t-taking," he smiled.

"Romance is important, but to have a friend you can use as a mirror, who can give you an objective response, that's what's really important."

Jake recently revealed that it wasn't always plain-sailing between him and Michael. The star confessed to having a “massive fight” with his co-star during a tactical training exercise that involved live ammunition.

Jake confronted his fellow actor about the potentially dangerous situation after he failed to hear Michael say he was moving positions.

"I haven't really ever talked about this," he revealed.