Why Alexander Skarsgård Prefers Complex Roles Over Righteous Characters: An Inside Look

Alexander Skarsgård recently stepped outside his usual role for the film Wicker. This quirky story, directed by Eleanor Wilson and Alex Huston Fischer, debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah. It follows a fisherwoman who asks a basketmaker to weave her a husband—who happens to be played by Skarsgård.

Surprisingly, Skarsgård found the biggest challenge wasn’t embodying a man of wicker. Instead, it was portraying a character filled with warmth and kindness. “I usually gravitate towards conflicted roles,” he explained during a Q&A session. “Playing someone good-hearted was a bit daunting for me.”

Audiences reacted with laughter as he noted, “I don’t have much to draw from for that, so it was a stretch.” Known for darker roles, like the cunning vampire Eric Northman in True Blood and the abusive husband in Big Little Lies, this lighter role was a refreshing change for him. Yet, he embraced it.

Skarsgård praised the script for its clever mix of humor and social commentary. “It’s funny and sweet, yet thought-provoking,” he said. He also faced a unique challenge physically; portraying a wicker man made expressing himself more difficult. “Rigidity was key to my character,” he joked.

As filming progressed, the character developed a subtle transformation. Skarsgård added that sound design played a significant role in conveying this, with the creaks of the wicker evolving as the character grew more comfortable. This attention to detail added depth to the film.

While he faced some challenges with facial expressions, especially in emotional scenes, Skarsgård adapted. “It felt strange, but I trusted the team,” he said of the adjustments he made for the role.

The discussions around Wicker have sparked interesting conversations on social media. Many fans are excited to see Skarsgård in such a different light, with some expressing that this role could inspire others to explore unexpected sides of themselves.

Wicker not only highlights an actor’s versatility but also invites viewers to consider the value in stepping outside their comfort zones. In an industry often saturated with similar roles, fresh perspectives can lead to new creative expressions.

For more details on the film and its themes, check out the full coverage from Entertainment Weekly.

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