In "Gothika," Robert Downey Jr plays a psychiatrist who lends a sympathetic ear to a fellow doctor (Halle Berry), who's been locked up after apparently viciously murdering her husband.
Producer Joel Silver and director Mathieu Kassovitz cast Robert Downey Jr in the role of Dr. Pete Graham because they needed an actor who could play sympathetic yet skeptical convincingly. "Robert is smart and he has amazing charisma. At the same time, there is an edge to his personality that he put into the character, and you really feel it in the film," explains Kassovitz.
Producer Susan Levin and Robert Downey Jr braved their way done the press line together at the World Premiere of "Gothika." Levin and Downey may have wanted to discuss the movie, but reporters were more interested in learning about their romantic relationship, which blossomed on the set of the supernatural thriller.
This is a genre switch for you, isn’t it?
Robert Downey Jr.: It really wasn’t all that different. I’ve always just shown up and tried to figure out what’s for lunch and am I going to get to play some racquetball that night. It’s become so [much] my job and part of just what I do daily, but it’s a different genre, I guess. Maybe one where I can actually be in a movie that doesn’t make 40 cents over the weekend (laughing).
What separates “Gothika” from other thrillers?
Robert Downey Jr.: Well, I think part of what makes it different from some films in this genre is that there’s a lot of big, celebrated actresses in it and stuff – and then I’m there. It just seemed like a slightly different caliber than you’re usually harem scarem.
With Susan as a producer and you as one of the stars, “Gothika” must be a pretty special movie for the two of you.
Robert Downey Jr.: It is special for us in more ways than one. We met on it, we’re in love and engaged, and all that fun stuff. Clearly everything that’s happening with us personally, we have some requirement to deal with it publicly.
Congratulations on the engagement. How did you celebrate?
Robert Downey Jr.: We went to London.
Can you talk about how the engagement went down? How did you pop the question?
Robert Downey Jr.: I certainly can but I’m reserving one or two or our memories until my memoirs, which will be coming out Friday (laughing). It was her birthday – November 6th.
Susan Levin 11:59 p.m. He made it right on time.
Can you talk about the ring?
Robert Downey Jr.: A gal who used to be my manager named Loree Rodkin designs jewelry now, so I got it from her.
What was your initial reaction?
Susan Levin: My initial reaction was “Yes.” And I think there was a tear or two.
Have you set a date yet?
Robert Downey Jr.: We’re getting there, so I guess that means no. But we’re taking our time.
“Gothika” Premiere Interviews:
Halle Berry, Penelope Cruz, John Carroll Lynch and Kathleen Mackey
Additional Resources:
”Gothika” World Premiere Photo Gallery
”Gothika” Production Photos
”Gothika” Trailer, Cast List and Movie News
