Set 25 years before the events of "The Exorcist," this prequel is centered around Father Merrin's trip to Kenya and the horror that changed his life and made him become an exorcist.
In person, Stellan Skarsgard is an imposing figure. Friendly and frank, in this interview from the World Premiere of "Exorcist: The Beginning" Skarsgard addresses the differences between Paul Schrader and Renny Harlin's version of the film.
INTERVIEW WITH STELLAN SKARSGARD ('Father Merrin'):
What kind of research did you do to play the role of a priest?
I had a couple of meetings. Then between the first and the second one, I read the Bible. The entire Bible.
Did you study Max von Sydow’s performance?
No, I told them I can’t do him. He’s good at doing him, I’m bad at doing him (laughing). [Doing a very good impression of von Sydow] No, then I should talk more like this, and I can’t.
This movie was filmed twice. How does that change how you play the character?
It actually changed because it’s two different genres, it’s two different films. I always sort of try to make my role work for the film, so I had to change the way I acted in each.
What was the major difference between how you played him the first time, and how you played him in Renny Harlin’s version?
The first one was the psychological thriller where I went much darker and deeper. The second one is lighter – not lighter, but it’s not so concerned with the character’s psychological problems as the first one was, so it’s more about making a horror film, the second one.
Which one was more of a challenge for you as an actor?
I don’t know. Every job is a challenge. I’ve made about 60 films and I’m scared every time.
Do you have a preference between the two versions?
No, not at all. They’re different genres.
What was it like working on this project?
It was fun, twice.
Have you been approached yet by any fans of the original "Exorcist?"
No, not yet. I don’t know if I will have to hide my face when I come out of here (laughing).
What scares you?
The regime of this country.
ADDITIONAL COVERAGE OF THE WORLD PREMIERE OF "EXORCIST: THE BEGINNING"
Interview with Izabella Scorupco
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