In a casual chat with DAMAN, British actor Dan Stevens talks about his approach to tackling different roles and navigating the industry across multiple continents
Transitioning from the stage to small and big screens presents unique challenges for actors. Each medium requires a distinct set of skills and techniques. However, that’s not the case for British actor Dan Stevens. He tackled this transition gracefully and skillfully, proving himself as adept on stage as on-screen. From his breakout role as the endearing Matthew Crawley on the widely acclaimed television series “Downtown Abbey” to his portrayal as an enigmatic soldier in the thriller “The Guest,” Stevens has showcased himself in a diverse range of roles. In his upcoming appearance in “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” Stevens further proves his ability to inhabit characters with depth, complexity and authenticity.
I’VE ALWAYS ADMIRED THE ABILITY TO SHAPESHIFT AND EMBODY DIFFERENT ROLES IN MANY DIFFERENT MODES AND GENRES
DAMAN: Hi Dan, great to have you with us. As a versatile actor known for roles in both film and television, what do you find most fulfilling about the craft?
Dan Stevens: I’ve always admired the ability to shapeshift and embody different roles in many different modes and genres.
DA: Your roles span various genres and time periods. Do you have a favorite genre or era that you find particularly intriguing?
DS: I love comedy and horror— sometimes combined—as they both evoke an instant reaction from an audience and you know if it’s working.
I TREAT EACH NEW PROJECT AS AN EXCUSE TO DIVE DEEP, READ AND RESEARCH. I WATCH FILMS I MIGHT NEVER HAVE SEEN RELATED TO WHAT I’M DOING
DA: How do you approach each new project with fresh enthusiasm?
DS: I treat each new project as an excuse to dive deep, read and research. I watch films I might never have seen related to what I’m doing or suggested by the director, often learning a new skill that a character might possess.
DA: Let’s talk about “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” where you play as Trapper. What can you tell us about your character?
DS: Trapper is a veterinarian specializing in Titan creatures. So, if Kong has a toothache, Trapper’s your man! He’s adventurous, optimistic and a fun spirit.
DA: We’ve noticed that you’ve worked with director Adam Wingard before. What was it like reuniting with him for “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire”? And on that note, how does your past collaborations with him influence your overall approach to this project?
DS: Adam and I met on a movie he directed called “The Guest” almost ten years ago and we’ve been friends ever since. He’s such a talented filmmaker with really weird tastes and I love spending time with him—and with Simon Barrett, who co-wrote “The Guest” with Adam and also wrote on this. They’re both steeped in cinema and are wonderful, funny guys. Reuniting with them both was a joy.
DA: As a fan of the Monsterverse franchise, what are you most excited for audiences to see in this?
DS: These films are intended to be enjoyed in a group setting in as big a format as possible. The music, the action sequences— everything is designed for and amplified by the theatrical experience.
DA: What challenges did you face while filming scenes involving CGI and large-scale action sequences in this new sequel?
DS: There were some fun stunt sequences that were challenging, but the main challenge was the natural world of the Australian outback.
DA: What do you think sets this film apart from other entries in the Monsterverse franchise?
DS: It’s confidently off on its own adventure. While this one ties into some of the mythology familiar to the franchise, there are things nobody has ever seen in here.
DA: What do you enjoy the most from playing Trapper in the movie?
DS: It was great to get to play such a fun, cheeky, positive character who has such a sense of play and wonder, very in tune with the natural world, no matter how weird it gets.
DA: As someone who’s worked in the British and American entertainment industries, what differences have you noticed and what notes do you take away from each?
DS: Craft services—the snacks—are definitely better in the U.S.
DA: Are there any surprising or amusing anecdotes from your time working in both?
DS: It always delights me when a crew member doesn’t know where I’m from—either in the U.S. or the U.K.— and they are surprised when they hear my native accent.
DA: How do you handle criticism and feedback, both positive and negative, about your performances?
DS: Everyone’s a critic these days and you’re never going to please everyone all of the time. Sometimes you won’t please anybody—but there are always other things to watch.
DA: What are some dream roles or genres you haven’t explored yet but would like to in the future?
DS: I’d like to do more musicals. I’ve never done a Western and I’m fascinated by Elvis’ later years.
DA: How do you manage to stay grounded and maintain a sense of authenticity in an industry known for its glamour and superficiality?
DS: I try to stay close with old friends from outside the industry who can maintain a healthy sense of humor about what I do.
DA: When you’re not working, do you have any favorite spots or activities in your hometown or any other city you enjoy visiting?
DS: I’ve gotten really into pickleball in the last few years. And I love Berlin and will visit any chance I get.
DA: Are there any personal goals or aspirations you’re currently working on outside your professional endeavors in the film biz?
DS: I always try to write more when I’m not filming.
DA: Can you tell us about what else you have coming up?
DS: There’s a horror/comedy movie, “Abigail,” from the Radio Silence directors, who directed the last two “Scream” movies, and “Cuckoo” starring Hunter Schafer, directed by a brilliant German director named Tilman Singer
PHOTOGRAPHY @lensbymi_
STYLING KIMBERLY YVETTE GOODNIGHT
Grooming Sonia Lee for Exclusive Artists using Epicutis Skincare and Koh Gen Do
Production Ian Phillips for Media Playground PR
Casting Pure Consulting