Recently we spoke with the talented Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje about his career and his work in the upcoming “Thor: The Dark World”.
What inspired you to choose a career in film/TV; do you have any advice for people
who are looking to get into the television and/or film industry?
As part of my punishment for being naughty as a boy I was made to sit with my
Grandmother and watch black and white movies. At the time as an 8 year old child it
was excruciating as all I wanted to do was play outside with my friends. In
hindsight, I believe that is when my love for Hollywood and the craft of acting
first began. By the time I was ten I knew every plot, star, and Hollywood character
actor that was current. Many young actors simply want to be stars and there is
absolutely nothing wrong with that. But if you wish to be a great actor, my advice
would be to first develop your craft and allow it to do its job for you.
Looking at THOR: The Dark World, how did you prepare for that?
Well my character is a new addition. I did do some extensive background research as
to where these characters originated and also spent considerable time learning the
Elven language and developing the right tone of accent for both Algrim/and
particularly Kurse.
What are your thoughts about being part of such a pop culture event as THOR and do
you have any added pressure knowing how rabid the fan base is?
There was no added pressure, fortunately I am no stranger to participating in pop
culture events (i.e. LOST, GI- Joe, THE THING) but there was a particular excitement
about participating in a Marvel project. I had seen the first installment of THOR
and was very impressed, particularly by the dramatic arcs.
If you had carte blanche, what type of role would you like to create for yourself,
who would direct, and who would star with you in the project?
I would probably play a lead Action Hero similar to Jason Bourne in the Bourne
identity. Why I like this particular character was because he was not your typical
hero… He was a reluctant hero, with a complexity not often seen in such male
leads. Plus the whole dynamic of the action sequences was very real and authentic.
I’d like to work with dynamic and intelligent thriller directors such as Antonine
Fuqua, Steven Soderbergh, Martin Scorsese, Paul Thomas Anderson, etc.
When you consider a script or a potential TV or film project, what elements do you
look for in the story and character and what types of projects would you like to do
in the future?
It all comes down to two things: The story, and your part in it. If I like those two
elements it’s an easy decision. Future roles? I think exploring dramatic lead roles
and keeping them diverse would be my choice .
What were some memorable moments from filming and what can we look forward to from
you and your character going forward?
A few memorable moments included the long make-up process, and the action sequences
of Kurse.
As a follow up, what was working with your cast like?
It was a dream cast to work alongside. Obviously they knew each other from the
previous instalment , but coming as a new guy i felt very welcome and part of the
family.
When you’re not filming, what do you like to do?
I like to play music; I have a music studio. I also like to write, play sports, and
just relax watching my favorite black and white movies.
What future projects do you have coming up that the readers can look forward to?
We have Pompeii in February which is another Gladiator Blockbuster, based on the
true historical event … And the Motion picture version of the Movie ANNIE in which
I star opposite Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz.
