Bill Skarsgård Takes on a New Role in the Thriller ‘Locked’
A Shift to Simplicity After Complex Characters
Renowned for his transformative roles, Bill Skarsgård is now embracing a different kind of challenge in his latest film, Locked. Following his famed portrayals of Pennywise in It and Count Orlok in the upcoming Nosferatu, Skarsgård finds himself in a close-quarters thriller where he is trapped inside a car with a sociopath played by the esteemed Anthony Hopkins. This role offers a significant departure from the intricacies involved in the making of Nosferatu.
Choosing Roles that Challenge Him
Skarsgård expressed his relief at having a more extended break between productions, stating, “I was very happy because I had a bigger break than usual — four or five months, which I really needed in order to shake off Mr. Orlok.” He discovered the script for Locked toward the end of filming for Nosferatu, which intrigued him due to its stark contrast with his previous roles. He remarked, “There’s something about it that was so different from what I have been doing,” underlining his desire to explore new aspects of his craft.
Navigating Unique Challenges on Set
In Locked, Skarsgård portrays Eddie, a character he describes as having a “street weasel quality.” However, performing in isolation proved to be a daunting experience, as he recounted: “It was awkward being alone for so long. You’re like, ‘Ok, where do I look? The camera’s here, and I’m not looking at a person.’” Much of his dialogue was delivered through phone interactions with Hopkins, adding a layer of complexity to his performance. At times, he even relied on the Assistant Director for support while performing scenes.
Collaborative Moments with Anthony Hopkins
Despite the challenges, Skarsgård had an exhilarating experience working with Hopkins when they finally shared the screen. He recalled, “When he did show up in person, that was one of the high points. That scene that we have together at the end was a joyous moment of production.” Their collaborative effort resulted in an impromptu scene that felt authentic, as both actors brought spontaneity to their performances.
Overview and Anticipation for ‘Locked’
Locked is a remake of the Argentine thriller 4×4, directed by David Yarovesky. Though some critics suggest that its exploration of moral themes may not fully resonate, the film appeals to audiences looking for an engaging thriller. According to IndieWire’s Christian Zilko, it offers a unique premise showcasing Skarsgård’s character facing dire consequences due to his poor decisions. Currently, the film is available in theaters, promising an intriguing viewing experience for fans of both Skarsgård and Hopkins.