Thursday Murder Club's Jonathan Pryce shares real reason he accepted role on Netflix film
The Thursday Murder Club arrives on Netflix on August 28 and the film, which has a full trailer, is based on Richard Osman's novel of the same name. The movie stars Helen Mirren as Elizbeth Best, a former spy who teams up with other amateur sleuths to investigate cold cases.
Elizabeth is married to Stephen, a retired academic who is very well travelled and has written several scholarly books. Post-retirement, he prefers to say at home in his own company and loves a good game of chess. Heartbreakingly, Stephen shows the early signs of dementia and sometimes becomes confused.
Actor Pryce shared the main reason why he was so keen to join the Netflix adaptation of Osman's book.
He said it was the opportunity to work with Helen Mirren, adding: "That was major. The inspiration for doing this film was to work with her.
"We were in the same scene, but I never got to talk to her on Woman in Gold and Helen is an actress I've long admired.
"She's extraordinary and it's a privilege to work with her."
The 78-year-old actor from Carmel also admitted he has actually never played chess in his life, despite his character being a huge fan.
"Haven't a clue! But we had experts on set all the time telling us where to put our pieces," he explained.
"It's kind of fun, looking like you're an expert on something and not having a clue."
Director Chris Columbus praised the star, saying he is "an actor who can carry several films on his own".
He shared: "The fact that he agreed to do a supporting role in this picture speaks volumes about Richard Osman's wonderful source material and his ability to infuse all of the roles, no matter how big or small, with a three dimensional, complex reality."
Pryce is otherwise known for his roles in Brazil, Pirates of the Caribbean, Barbarians at the Gate and The Crown.
He was honoured with a knighthood for services to drama in 2021.
The Thursday Murder Club arrives on Netflix on August 28
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