Paterson Joseph, a celebrated British actor, has embraced a thrilling new challenge: a darkly comedic horror film calledThey Will Kill You. He describes the experience simply, and with a grin, as “a bloody romp.”
Joseph found himself surprisingly amused while watching the film for the first time, even amidst the scares. He recalls a screening with his agent, who was constantly grabbing his arm during the more intense moments. He realized the film offered a unique blend of terror and humor, a quality he hadn’t anticipated but thoroughly enjoyed.
This marks Joseph’s first foray into the horror genre, a departure from his previous work which he characterizes as more fantasy-based. He fondly remembers his early days with Sir Lenny Henry’s company, a time when British television hadn’t yet fully embraced the possibilities of science fiction and fantasy.
They Will Kill Youboasts a stellar cast, including Zazie Beetz, Patricia Arquette, Tom Felton, and Heather Graham – all of whom Joseph describes as “just really nice human beings.” He particularly highlights the warmth and camaraderie on set, sharing a charming anecdote about a ukulele jam session with Arquette and Felton.
The film doesn’t shy away from visceral intensity. Joseph explains that the violence feels real, with consequences that are often darkly humorous. It’s a deliberate choice, moving away from the cartoonish violence often seen in the genre.
Joseph plays Ray, a character whose initial appearance is deliberately misleading. He teases that his character’s first line is a surprising reveal, subverting expectations about his role in the story. His relationship with Arquette’s character is defined by a blunt honesty, perfectly encapsulated in a single, unforgettable line: “F* off.”
A veteran of the British acting scene, Joseph’s career spans decades, encompassing stage, television, and film. From the Royal Shakespeare Company to beloved series likePeep ShowandCasualty, he’s become a recognizable face for generations of viewers. Recent roles include appearances inWonkaandVigil.
The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by Black British actors. While acknowledging the increasing visibility of talent like Sir Idris Elba and Wunmi Mosaku in America, Joseph believes the issue isn’t solely about race, but about class and opportunity.
He observes that actors like Tom Hiddleston and Benedict Cumberbatch are celebrated for pursuing opportunities in America, while Black British actors achieving the same success are often viewed as a “novelty.” He argues that the American market simply offers more work, regardless of ethnicity.
Joseph emphasizes that access to opportunity is often determined by socioeconomic background. He notes that Black actors from middle-class backgrounds often possess the confidence and connections to navigate the industry more easily, while those from working-class backgrounds face a constant uphill battle.
He reflects on his own experience with the NBC seriesTimeless, a time-traveling sci-fi drama that he believes was cut short prematurely. He was proud of the show’s educational value, receiving letters from students who found it helpful for their studies.
Currently, Joseph is immersed in a new project: a reboot ofLara Croftfor Prime Video, led by Sophie Turner and featuring Sigourney Weaver and Jason Isaacs. While remaining tight-lipped about the details, he expresses his enthusiasm for the creative process and the dynamic energy on set, praising Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s innovative writing style.
They Will Kill Youis now playing in cinemas, offering audiences a thrilling and unexpectedly funny ride into the heart of darkness.
