Willem Dafoe reveals unique approach to character in The Man in My Basement
- Willem Dafoe stars in The Man in My Basement, portraying a character with unusual behavior.
- Dafoe approached his role differently, focusing on the character's actions rather than creating a backstory.
- The film’s creative process involved a fully scripted script, leading to a unique exploration of themes on connection and isolation.
On September 10, 2025, Willem Dafoe, a renowned actor, participated in an interview discussing his role in the film The Man in My Basement. Directed by Nadia Latif, Dafoe plays Anniston Bennet, a character who rents a basement apartment from Charles Blakey. In this film, set against a backdrop reminiscent of pre-smartphone and internet times, Anniston engages in unusual behavior that captivates audiences. Notably, he builds a cage in the basement and locks himself inside, prompting Charles to confront him about his life choices and misdeeds. Dafoe shared that he typically does not create character backstories that extend beyond what is portrayed in the film. He emphasized that crafting a backstory can lead to distractions from the performance itself, asserting that inherent action within the script should guide actors. However, he acknowledged that Anniston's confessions reveal his desire for punishment and provide insight into his mentality. This careful consideration of character was informed by the fully scripted nature of this particular project, a departure from many Hollywood films that often undergo daily rewrites. The director, Nadia Latif, noted that she retained dialogue from Walter Mosley’s original source material but struggled to separate her contributions from Mosley's, showcasing an intricate blending of insights. The unique constraints of the filming environment limited physical expression, compelling the team to rely heavily on dialogue as a means of conveying action and emotion. Dafoe also reflected on the character's intention to disconnect from a world where he feels overwhelmed, relating this theme to contemporary societal pressures despite the film's past setting. Ultimately, the exploration of connection and isolation resonates with audiences and evokes discussions about the human condition. Dafoe’s reflections on his character development illustrate the potential for actors to evolve in their craft, particularly as they explore unconventional roles. The film presents a cerebral horror narrative, one that entwines philosophical musings with chilling realities, making it a distinctive addition to Dafoe's impressive portfolio.