Mads Mikkelsen at Marrakech Film Festival on Hollywood vs art house, acting ethics, female influence

Mads Mikkelsen shares insights from his diverse career at the Marrakech Film Festival, reflecting on the balancing act between mainstream Hollywood roles and European arthouse cinema. Mikkelsen discusses the advantages of this duality, attributing it to a privileged position that allows actors like him and colleague Willem Dafoe to be viewed through different lenses by global audiences. With a background steeped in experimental theatre and dance, Mikkelsen expresses his enduring appetite for challenging, varied roles, a sentiment echoed in his admiration for Dafoe's work. During the interview, Mikkelsen touches on his collaborations with director Thomas Vinterberg, acknowledging the unique and communicative relationship they share. He delves into the nuanced portrayals of characters in his films, from the villainous to the sophisticated, and the influence of his Danish heritage on his choice of roles. Mikkelsen also addresses the industry's typecasting based on accents and the broader implications for diversity in casting. The conversation shifts to a broader discussion on the role of women in film, both in front of and behind the camera, as Mikkelsen calls for greater utilization of the immense female talent pool sidelined by the industry. He also recounts his early career, from auditions where his words were less important than his energy to the ethical considerations of role selection. Mikkelsen concludes with thoughts on the importance of empathy in portraying complex characters and the need for nuanced storytelling that reflects the shades of humanity. His interview offers a glimpse into the mind of an actor who masterfully traverses the cinematic landscape, from the icy isolation of "Arctic" to the intoxicating dance of "Another Round".

Interviewer/video: Sarah Bradbury

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