Image credit: Pip Bourdillon
Shazad Latif has the kind of elasticity that they teach in drama schools. Bouncing between epic, big-budget productions like Nautilus, released today on Amazon Prime, and intense, indie roles alongside powerhouses like Daisy Ridley, Latif is now bringing his ethereal range to a new twist on the iconic character of Captain Nemo. THE REAL interviewed Shazad about the responsibility of adopting a loved character and how Nautilus compares to his impressive catalogue of work.
By Maisy Nichols
Congratulations on Nautilus. How much did you know about the character of Captain Nemo before joining the project? Do you feel a sense of responsibility playing such an iconic literary figure?
I knew of Captain Nemo and Verne’s stories. I knew the old James Mason movie and The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. I felt the normal pressure to try and do a good job. It was exciting to play an iconic figure.
Nemo has long been an elusive figure in Verne’s literature; why do you think audiences are so drawn to prequels that expand on the backstories of well-loved characters?
Because the story hasn’t been told in this way and as an Indian Prince, it’s exciting for audiences to see how this elusive figure ended up the way he did. And how he got there.
As an actor, how does working on a large-scale, big-budget project like Nautilus compare to your experience on smaller sets?
There are good things about both. I guess the big projects usually have less singular vision, too many cooks and opinions. I think the smaller projects have a more singular vision which helps the quality. But the industry and scale of the bigger projects is also unbelievable. Both are collaborative. One usually has more money and reach.
You’re no stranger to the fantasy/adventure genre, with roles in series like Star Trek and The Dark Crystal- what continues to draw you to the genre?
I don’t think I chose to work in that area specifically. I have only reached a place of more choice now. I had to take a lot of work for different reasons. The writers were placing characters I could be cast as in these worlds. Earlier in my career, that wasn’t the case. But I love all genres, variety is good.
How does it feel to be leading Nautilus as a classic adventure hero?
It’s a special feeling. Wonderful. I grew up watching adventure, swashbuckling stuff and to be able to do that and maybe have someone feel the same way as I did is a nice feeling. I’m very grateful to be able to do this mad job.
How do these incredible sets and costumes in the fantasy genre assist you in getting into character?
It puts you into the world much quicker and easier. It aids your own imagination and the better the quality the easier for you. They are incredible artists.
Let’s talk a little about Magpie, which will be released later this year. The shoot was a month-long , with a small cast carrying this hugely emotional narrative- how do you adapt your acting process for these intensive shoots?
I think the process is generally the same.
You’ve got some exciting releases coming this year, but what else is on the horizon for you? Are there any other genres/mediums that you are particularly keen to work on?
I have a job I cannot mention yet, but I am very excited about it, and it should be announced soon.
Nautilus is available to watch now on Amazon Prime.
Follow Shazad on Instagram @shazad1
