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Anthony Simcoe: No I did not draw on any individual, real or imaginary, for inspiration. I did however do extensive research on performers who had to work with heavy or concealing make-ups. I wanted to see how mask work translated to film and how well other actors dealt with conveying emotion through perceived barriers. I looked at films and television shows like "The Elephant Man", "Star Wars", "Mask", "The Story Teller" etc. It was only after working out the physical limitations and benefits of having the make-up that I started do dive into the psychological realm of the character. I love the fact that I am very different to D'Argo. I am a real believer in transformational character work. I love it when people say - "Oh my god are you that character?!! I loved you in that. You know I'm sorry but I didn't even recognize it was you!!"
Anthony Simcoe: It's very tricky for the writers of a long running show to track the journey of a character. It sounds simple enough, but in reality it's quite complex. They have to juggle the continuity of a character with the growth. With D'Argo it's been a constant challenge to juggle the Luxan warrior instincts with his gentler, more spiritual side. At this stage of the game it's not a matter of displaying one side or the other - we've already shown both these sides very effectively. What needs to happen now is for both of those sides to become more radical and extreme so that the inner turmoil of the character becomes almost unbearable - like not being able to live inside one's own skin. It's great playing a character where the morals and beliefs of the character are constantly betraying the characters instinct -this leads to wonderful moments of guilt, self doubt, confusion, self discovery and revelation. Remember that perfect moral characters are very boring to play and in the long run VERY boring to watch - "drama is about conflict"
Anthony
Simcoe:
I can't remember which episodes exactly but there are a few
scenes between D'Argo and Chiana where their relationship is
just starting up that ended up on the floor. They were
beautiful scenes and Gigi and I worked very hard to make
sure that our characters journey towards a relationship was
just right. However, when push came to shove, they were pure
character scenes and did not advance the plot. When
directors needed to cut something because the eps were too
long these scenes went. I agree with the decision
wholeheartedly but the intimacy and build towards the D'Argo
- Chiana relationship suffered a little.
Anthony Simcoe: Every single person on the crew!!!! This is a real crew driven show - believe me. The personalities are larger than life, their inputs are vital and without them the show would not be what it is. However I must make special mention of my stand in Paul Barbary - its a tough job that he pulls off to perfection and it is also one of those jobs that doesn't get much cudos. So next time you're raising your glass to Farscape - raise a shout for Paul "The D'Argo behind the D'Argo"
Anthony Simcoe graduated from the National Institute of Dramatic Arts in Sydney, Australia, where he earned an MFA in Drama, specializing in actor training. He also has degrees from other universities and drama schools in Australia and Europe. Beyond appearing as Ka D'Argo on Farscape, Anthony's television credits include the Australian series A Country Practice, Home and Away, Water Rats, English at Work and Stingers. He has also appeared in The Lost World. Anth recently appeared in The Castle, a film released in May 1999 by Miramax in the U.S. In addition to his, Anth also has an extensive theatre background. But don't let me tell you... learn more about this talented actor by visiting his site at www.anthonysimcoe.com. |
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