Dacre Montgomery, known for his breakout role in Netflix’s “Stranger Things,” is making waves once again with his latest film, “Dead Man’s Wire,” directed by the esteemed Gus Van Sant. The film, inspired by a true story, sees Montgomery take on the challenging role of Richard Hall, a bank president taken hostage in 1977 by Tony Kiritsis, played by Bill Skarsgård. Montgomery expressed enthusiasm for working with Van Sant, describing the experience as “even more wonderful than I could have imagined.”
Reflecting on his transformation into Hall, Montgomery noted the unique nature of the production. The tightly packed shooting schedule contributed to a frenetic and electric atmosphere that mirrors the story’s themes of inequity. “It’s bizarre, it’s absurd,” he remarked, emphasizing how the speed of production enhanced the storytelling experience. He also highlighted the importance of this timely narrative, especially against the backdrop of current societal issues.
In an engaging conversation, Montgomery opened up about the challenges of his unusual name, which is often mispronounced in America. He explained the discrepancies that arise from different accents, sharing that in Australia, his name is pronounced differently. His experience with a complicated name resonated with host H. Alan Scott, who also shared personal anecdotes about name mispronunciations.
Montgomery’s journey reflects his desire to take on roles that resonate with contemporary social issues. He stated, “I’m just not interested in taking part in art that doesn’t reflect life.” This commitment extends beyond just playing protagonists; he is eager to portray complex characters, even those seen as antagonists, as a means to bring depth to narratives that explore critical themes, such as domestic violence and social justice.
As for his recent projects, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the screen with a remarkable ensemble cast, including the legendary Al Pacino. Montgomery noted how the supportive atmosphere on set, characterized by openness and kindness, fostered a genuine collaborative spirit that made the acting process enjoyable.
Looking back on his time in “Stranger Things,” Montgomery acknowledged the initial fear of being typecast but emphasized that he has used the past several years to refine his craft and embrace new challenges. His excitement for future projects, particularly those from the Duffer Brothers, showcases his optimistic outlook on growth in the industry.
Overall, Dacre Montgomery’s evolution as an actor and his commitment to meaningful storytelling reflect a promising trajectory in his career. His ability to navigate complex themes with empathy and authenticity is likely to resonate with audiences, ensuring that his role in “Dead Man’s Wire” will leave a lasting impact.