'Project X' Star Oliver Cooper: How To Be A Dirtbag

UNIVERSAL CITY, California — "Project X" star Oliver Cooper is no stranger to being a dirtbag. No, not in his real life — just on the big screen. In the Todd Philips-produced flick, Cooper takes on the role of Costa, who manages to burn down a neighborhood, betray all of his friends, steal from a drug dealer and even put someone in an oven.

Yet, some good came out of portraying such a terrible character: The role earned Cooper two MTV Movie Awards nominations, including one for the inaugural Best On-Screen Dirtbag award.

Cooper is thrilled to be nominated for the award, going so far as to actively campaign for fan votes to ensure his victory in winning the Golden Popcorn.

When MTV News caught up with Cooper earlier this week outside the Gibson Amphitheatre, home of the Movie Awards, we were curious to find out just what it takes to be the ultimate dirtbag. Not surprisingly, Cooper had all the answers.

How to be a Dirtbag:

1. Have No Regard for Your Friends
The first rule to being a dirtbag is to completely disregard your friends' feelings. If you need some guidance, pay close attention to Cooper's character in "Project X."

2. Dislike Animals — Especially Kittens
Yes, this sounds insane. How can anyone really hate kittens? Well, if you're a dirtbag, you probably do. "Hate animals," Cooper said. "You have to kick kittens when you see them, steal their food when they're not looking."

3. Don't Have Kids
According to Cooper, dirtbags "never want to have kids." We really aren't sure why, but we think if you're a dirtbag, you might understand.

Find out whether Cooper wins the award for Best On-Screen Dirtbag and Best Comedic Performance tonight at 9 p.m. ET.

Head over to MovieAwards.MTV.com to cast your vote for Best Hero and Best Movie now! The "Movie Awards Punk'd Pre-Party" starts at 8 p.m. ET, followed by the 21st annual MTV Movie Awards live tonight at 9 p.m. ET!