Caleb Landry Jones Stays in Dracula Character During On-Set Interview

Caleb Landry Jones, known for his role as the eerie brother in Jordan Peele’s “Get Out,” is set to star in the upcoming horror flick “Dracula: A Love Tale.” Jones, often lauded as one of the most underrated and versatile actors of today, shared some intriguing insights about his role during an interview with Collider’s Steve Weintraub.

Jones discussed that this iteration of the Dracula character offers a first-person perspective that deviates from conventional portrayals. “I’m excited. […] Usually we do not see the character from this perspective in a sense. We do not get to stay with him for as long as we do in this film. Usually, the monster is away, and we play around with this throughout the film. […] We get to spend time with him in a way that we have not before, which is good. Usually, [movies] take the monster away from you. This one gives the monster to you.”

In an unexpected twist, Jones maintains his Dracula voice even during press interviews. During the discussion, he was seated on the actual set, dressed in one of the numerous costumes he wears throughout the film. This character longevity isn’t merely for show; the story spans four centuries, starting in the 15th and concluding in the 18th century. This extended timeline aligns well with Dracula’s eternal existence and his quest for love amidst the challenges his immortality presents.

Jones’s commitment to his character might come off as peculiar to some, but it aligns him with other method actors like Daniel Day-Lewis and Jeremy Strong from “Succession.” These actors are known for their total immersion in their roles. Day-Lewis, for instance, insisted on being addressed only as “Mr. President” while filming “Lincoln.” This level of dedication has its critics and admirers alike, but it’s hard to argue with the results—Day-Lewis’s portrayal earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

The dedication to craft, as exemplified by actors like Jones, often stirs debate. Even among co-stars, there’s a mix of reverence and frustration. In “Succession,” Jeremy Strong’s intense approach drew ire from his fellow cast member, Brian Cox. However, this passion for authentic portrayal can yield unforgettable performances, and as some argue, whatever it takes to get into character is fair game—unless it crosses the line into disrespect.

Jones is undoubtedly aware of the pressure that comes with portraying an iconic character like Dracula. The stakes are particularly high given that Bill Skarsgård is set to play Count Orlok, inspired by Dracula, in Robert Eggers’ “Nosferatu” remake, set for a Christmas release. Inevitably, comparisons between the two films will arise, despite their differing tones, styles, and plot focuses.

Jones’s decision to stay in character throughout the press circuit recalls a similar anecdote about Robert Downey Jr. in “Tropic Thunder.” Downey Jr.’s character, Kirk Lazarus, famously parodied method acting by stating he wouldn’t break character until the DVD commentary was finished. Amusingly, Downey Jr. lived up to this by participating in the “Tropic Thunder” DVD commentary in character as Kirk Lazarus, who was himself playing Staff Sergeant Lincoln Osiris within the movie.

Whether Jones will emulate this and maintain his accent for “Dracula: A Love Tale’s” commentary track remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is his unwavering dedication to the role, promising viewers a nuanced and immersive portrayal of Dracula that is likely to stand out in the pantheon of vampire cinema.

Source: Collider, YouTube