N A T H A N F I L L I O N
Photographed by: John Russo
Interview: Ken Waller
Styled by: Luca Kingston
Grooming: Kathy Santiago
Video by: Ken Waller Media
KW: You’ve worked with James Gunn on several projects, from “Slither” to “The Suicide Squad.” How has your working relationship evolved over the years?
NF: I would say that first time was probably the most important because we developed trust, and a friendship. Since then, and I don’t want this to come across as just “hyping up my buddy”, but the facts are the facts- His projects simply become more and more impressive. What I see is more people coming to the understanding I came to so many years ago- that James is, for so many reasons, extremely good at his job.
KW: Gunn has a reputation for bringing out the best in his actors. What’s something unique about his directing style that keeps you coming back?
NF: He is at the same time specific about what he wants, and open to finding something in the moment. He takes his job seriously, but doesn’t take himself seriously. For years, we’ve been doing a bit where he roasts me mercilessly, and it entertains me to no end. Where I come from, only those close to your heart can do that safely, and James is very adept at keeping you safe.
KW: Your portrayal of Guy Gardner in “Superman” is highly anticipated. What drew you to this character, and how did you prepare for the role?
NF: This is a popular idea, that an actor is drawn to a role. I wasn’t drawn to it, it was gifted to me. “You are going to be Guy Gardner.” It’s a lightning bolt. In an instant, you know you’re going to be in another Gunn movie, have that incredible experience, and a chance to do something special with a unique and unusual character.
I read up on Guy, asked James about which comics to reference, and then started to piece together something that made sense of Guy to me. I also drew a lot of inspiration from Estelle Getty (Sophia) in the Golden Girls.
KW: Guy Gardner is known for his brash personality and signature bowl cut. How did you approach bringing his attitude to life on screen?
NF: Playing a character with flaws is very rewarding. Flaws are extremely informative. Dig into the flaws and you’ll find gold. Or a gold tooth.
KW: You’ve played heroes before, but Guy Gardner is a bit more… abrasive. What was the most fun and most challenging part of embodying him?
NF: the most fun was flying. But a flying harness is really, really uncomfortable. So is wearing a wig. By the end of a shoot, all you can think about is getting it off. Strange that the most fun bits are at the same time mild forms of torture.
To learn more about Nathan follow him @Nathanfillion