Oscar Isaac, the versatile actor known for his roles in Star Wars and Marvel's Moon Knight, has opened up about his experiences with the Star Wars franchise, particularly the backlash surrounding The Last Jedi and the infamous 'Somehow, Palpatine returned' line in The Rise of Skywalker. In an exclusive interview, Isaac reflects on his time in a Galaxy Far, Far Away, sharing insights into the creative process and the challenges of working on such a massive franchise. He also discusses his decision to take on the role of Marc Spector in Moon Knight and the importance of exploring mental health themes in his projects.
A Wild Ride in the Galaxy
Oscar Isaac's journey into the Star Wars universe began with The Force Awakens in 2012, and he quickly became a fan favorite as Poe Dameron. When asked about his favorite part of the experience, Isaac highlights the excitement and novelty of the first film, noting the thrill of meeting director J.J. Abrams and becoming close with fellow cast members John Boyega and Daisy Ridley. He also mentions the joy of reuniting with Adam Driver, his co-star from Llewyn Davis. However, the actor reveals that he didn't feel the impact of the backlash to The Last Jedi, understanding the intense ownership fans have over these stories.
The Reshoots and 'Somehow, Palpatine Returned'
The interview delves into the reshoots for The Rise of Skywalker, where Isaac had to film the iconic line, 'Somehow, Palpatine returned.' He describes the process as a 'surgical strike' and admits that the wig was quite good, given the circumstances. Isaac also reflects on the troubled production of the film, which remains the franchise's worst-reviewed effort. He humorously questions whether he thought that line would be the one everyone would remember, indicating the unpredictable nature of the creative process.
A Non-Committal Return to Star Wars
When asked about the possibility of returning as Poe Dameron, Isaac keeps his options open, simply stating, 'Maybe.' He confirms that he never read the script for The Hunt for Ben Solo, adding an air of mystery to his potential involvement. Isaac's non-committal attitude reflects his desire to explore other opportunities and maintain a sense of freedom in his career.
Exploring Mental Health in Moon Knight
Beyond Star Wars, Isaac has made a significant impact with his role as Marc Spector in Moon Knight. The actor was drawn to the project due to its exploration of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and the opportunity to work with director Mohamed Diab. Isaac emphasizes the importance of taking mental health themes seriously, citing William Dafoe's advice to seek out projects with 'space to create something.' He believes that Moon Knight offers a unique and meaningful exploration of DID, making it a compelling choice for his next venture.
The MCU and Midnight Sons
The interview also touches on Isaac's potential future in the Marvel Universe, particularly the speculation surrounding a Midnight Sons movie. He expresses his respect for the project's handling of DID and the challenge it presents. Isaac's interest in the MCU is evident, but he remains focused on the meaningful exploration of mental health themes, which seems to be a deal-breaker for him. The actor's commitment to serious and thought-provoking content is a refreshing perspective in the world of superhero films.
In conclusion, Oscar Isaac's insights into his work on Star Wars and Moon Knight offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the challenges of working on massive franchises. His commitment to exploring complex themes and his desire for artistic freedom make him a compelling figure in the entertainment industry. As fans eagerly await his next move, Isaac continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his unique approach to storytelling.
