Anthony Carrigan’s Transition to Prominence
After wrapping his acclaimed performance on Barry in 2023, Anthony Carrigan quickly set his sights on broadening his artistic horizons. This Massachusetts native shifted gears almost immediately, expressing ambitions to tackle both independent and blockbuster projects. His next endeavors include starring in A24’s Death of a Unicorn and the upcoming Superman directed by James Gunn.
Death of a Unicorn, directed by newcomer Alex Scharfman, showcases A24’s knack for attracting top-tier talent with its unique and unconventional storytelling. Joining Carrigan are industry heavyweights like Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, Will Poulter, Téa Leoni, and Richard E. Grant. In this comedic creature feature, Carrigan portrays Griff, the beleaguered butler to the pharmaceutical magnates, the Leopolds, who find themselves embroiled in a bizarre incident when the Kintners—Brought to the Leopolds’ retreat—accidentally run over a unicorn.
Exploring Griff’s Complexities
Griff’s character grapples with frustration toward his ostentatious employers while navigating an increasingly chaotic environment. For Carrigan, this role provided a canvas to explore the nuances of physical and silent comedy. “It may seem straightforward, but crafting body language to narrate a story is vital,” Carrigan shared in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. His preparation involved studying legends like Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin to perfect this craft.
Shifting Focus: From Independence to Superman
Shifting gears to his role in July’s Superman, Carrigan plays Rex Mason, also known as Metamorpho, a character with the ability to turn into various chemical elements. When questioned about the film’s tone compared to Gunn’s successful Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, Carrigan tread carefully, suggesting while Superman shares the same heart and intelligence, it carves its distinct identity. “Working on it was a special experience, and the cast is eager to deliver something unique,”he stated confidently.
A Conversation with Anthony Carrigan
“I really do miss that show Barry, though. It was such a great experience, and it opened the doors for so many things moving forward, Death of a Unicorn being one of them.”
On the Appeal of A24
Amid his rise, Carrigan reflects on A24’s prestige, likening it to an elite table in Hollywood. “It’s inspiring to see a production house that elevates independent films to considerable heights,” he remarked. In these challenging times for the industry, he expressed hope for a renewed focus on independent cinema as traditional models falter, indicating that studios like A24 are primed to lead the charge.
Plot Intrigues and Personal Anecdotes
The film’s plot device involves a fateful encounter with a unicorn, sparking a chaotic chain of events reminiscent of Carrigan’s own high school experiences. “It reminded me of a time when our bus hit a Clydesdale horse after a game—totally bizarre!” he recalled, sharing the humor in adversity. He also touched on personal interactions with animals, recounting a particularly dramatic horse-riding incident at a wedding in South Dakota.
Character Dynamics and Silent Comedy
In exploring his role as Griff, Carrigan embraced the art of understated comedy. “For much of the film, my character remains in the background, silent yet present. The key lies in body language,” he noted. This subtlety allows the film to shine through various perspectives, enhancing its depth. He spoke highly of engaging moments, such as his character’s frantic yet humorous attempts to navigate the Leopolds’ absurd demands.
Reflections on Themes and Audience Reception
When discussing themes relevant to affluent families, Carrigan remarked, “Our hope is that families resembling the Leopolds reflect on their actions. However, it might ultimately serve as a cathartic experience, watching such characters face consequences.” The overall aim appears to be a blend of entertainment and introspective commentary.
Looking towards his future, Carrigan expressed excitement about Superman, revealing his anticipation to see how the film unfolds. “I haven’t seen any footage yet, just the trailers. Sometimes it’s surreal to remember that I’m part of this iconic film!”
Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Projects
As Carrigan continues to make strides in the industry with Death of a Unicorn hitting theaters on March 28, his journey is poised for remarkable developments. He also spoke fondly of rekindling his collaboration with Alex Winter for Adulthood, proving that his transition from television to film is both deliberate and impactful.
With Barry concluding its story arc with unexpected depth, Carrigan’s progression is marked by a balance of comedic legacy and dramatic exploration, leaving audiences excited for what’s to come. His final reflections on the journey behind each role encapsulate a profound appreciation for storytelling, whether it’s in the realm of independent films with A24 or grand narratives like Superman.