“Idris Elba tackles Cockney terrorists in adrenaline-pumping real-time thriller Hijack”

Culture

Idris Elba on his role in the real-time thriller Hijack

By Jack King | June 28, 2023

Idris Elba, known for his versatile acting career and multifaceted talents, has recently taken on the role of Sam Nelson in the TV thriller Hijack. In an interview with GQ, Elba discusses what drew him to the project, the unique approach to the hijacking storyline, and his future aspirations in the film industry.

The Relatable and Unique Storyline

When asked about what drew him to the TV series Hijack, Elba explains that he was attracted to the simplicity and relatability of the story. The show centers around a man on a hijacked plane and his involvement in the situation. Elba appreciates the straightforwardness of the premise and the exploration of what an individual would do in such a high-stakes scenario.

Elba acknowledges that the series intentionally breaks away from traditional hijacking tropes by portraying the terrorists as cockney gangsters. By deviating from the expected narrative, the show creates a sense of intrigue and engages the audience in uncovering the true identities and motives of the characters.

The Challenges of Filming on an Airplane Set

Elba discusses the unique challenges of filming Hijack, particularly the confined airplane set. Most of his scenes take place in the seat, down the aisle, or occasionally in the cockpit. Despite the limited physical space, Elba explains that the real focus lies in portraying the character’s thoughts and emotions. He emphasizes that the mind and perspective of the character are crucial in creating a compelling narrative.

As an actor, Elba appreciates the cleverness of the show in utilizing the constraints of the airplane setting to enhance the storytelling. He mentions that while there may be limitations in terms of cinematography, the focus on the character’s inner struggles and vulnerabilities provides ample material for exploration.

The Emotional Themes in Hijack and Beyond

Elba draws parallels between Hijack and another recent film he worked on, Beast. He highlights the simple yet emotionally resonant storytelling in both projects, emphasizing the theme of a father’s love for his family. In Hijack, the protagonist’s desire to reunite with his broken family serves as a driving force, offering a relatable and relatable motive for the character’s actions.

When asked about the possibility of a sequel for Hijack, Elba expresses openness to the idea, suggesting that if the character remains compelling enough, it could warrant further exploration. He believes that if approached thoughtfully and without diminishing the story’s credibility, a sequel could delve into new scenarios that challenge the character’s resilience and ingenuity.

Idris Elba’s Varied Career and Future Aspirations

Elba is known for his diverse career, spanning acting, DJing, and even directing. He reflects on the challenges of juggling multiple roles, referencing a past experience of shooting a movie while simultaneously maintaining his DJ residency in Ibiza. Elba admits that it was demanding but ultimately rewarding, as it allowed him to pursue both his passion for acting and his love for music.

Despite his successful acting career, Elba reveals that his true passion lies in directing. He relishes the opportunity to oversee all aspects of a project, from music selection to technical details. Elba is excited to embark on his directorial debut in an upcoming movie, further exploring his creative vision and taking on new challenges.

Looking ahead, Elba shares his aspirations to collaborate with esteemed actors such as Joaquin Phoenix, Daniel Kaluuya, and Meryl Streep. He also expresses interest in working with directors like Matt Reeves, known for directing the recent Batman film, and Gina Prince-Bythewood, acclaimed for directing The Woman King. Elba even mentions his desire to collaborate with the legendary Clint Eastwood.

Conclusion

With his latest role in Hijack, Idris Elba adds another thrilling and captivating performance to his impressive repertoire. The TV series offers an engaging and relatable take on the hijacking genre, with Elba’s character serving as the anchor amidst the turbulence. Elba’s enthusiasm for the project, his reflections on the challenges of filming, and his future aspirations in the film industry provide a glimpse into the multifaceted career of this talented actor.