I never really do much research before signing a film. It is just the script and character that I concentrate on.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
I sign a film based on the story, the role I play, and the maker.
When I make a movie, I don't break it down and analyze it. I could but it would get in the way of doing a job - on instinct based on all the research we did going in. you want to trust yourself and your director and your acting partners in the circumstances you're shooting. I don't like to have any kind of overview.
I haven't signed as many films as I'd like to because there are no good roles, as disheartening as it is to say.
For me, in general, it's always about the material. Obviously, it's about the material and hoping that someone wants to hire me for a job, too, but I've certainly seen films like 'Orphan' and movies like that where I know that if I had had the opportunity to read that script or had an opportunity to do it, I would have wanted to do it.
I find that the projects I enjoy signing up to at the moment are with a director who's interested in the script - isn't completely sure what the movie is and isn't concerned about it. He's just interested in going on the journey and discovering it.
For me, the script is important. If it excites me, I'll do the film.
You know, the great thing about acting or, indeed, filmmaking in general, is that we're all given a reason to do research. You kind of have to, really, if you want to know what you're doing, but it opens up this whole new understanding.
You know how it is, somebody will see your work and like it and remember it, then decide to make it a role in their film.
You try to get to know your character as best as you can before you start filming - what's written and not written.
I will never sign anything which makes me have to do more than one film.