Pierce Brosnan Shines as a Crime Boss in ‘MobLand’
Pierce Brosnan, best known for his portrayal of James Bond, is stepping into the role of a ruthless gangster in the new series MobLand. Here, he plays Conrad Harrigan, a character that has garnered attention for its complexity and depth.
About the Series
MobLand revolves around Conrad Harrigan and his fixer, Harry Da Souza, played by Tom Hardy. The duo becomes entangled in a brutal conflict with the rival Stevenson family. The series marks a collaboration among prominent creators, including Ronan Bennett and Jez Butterworth, with Guy Ritchie directing the first two episodes.
Brosnan’s Transformation into Conrad Harrigan
During a recent Zoom interview from his Malibu home, Brosnan shared his immediate intrigue when reading the script. “I read the first five episodes and just enjoyed it. I basically said, ‘I’m in.’ It was that easy,” he mentioned, highlighting the series’ gripping narrative.
Theatrical Influences and Character Development
In the latest episode, the tension among the clans heightens during a funeral scene, enriched by the performance of Helen Mirren as Maeve, Conrad’s wife. Brosnan noted the theatrical quality of these moments, comparing them to Shakespearean undertones. He emphasized, “It has those Shakespearean undertones… but we had no idea where it was really going because the scripts were coming in at the 11th hour.”
Anticipation for Future Seasons
Though a second season of MobLand has not yet been confirmed, Brosnan expressed excitement for the character’s journey, recognizing the impact the show has had on its audience. He reflected, “It’s been remarkable to see the impact it’s had on the audience.”
Insights on Character Development
Brosnan elaborated on the evolution of Conrad, noting the unique blend of vulnerability and humor in the character. He stated, “There’s a vulnerability to the character that I like… he’s quite terrifying and unhinged.” His character’s interactions with Maeve form a core element of this complexity, illustrating how love and manipulation intertwine.
Working with Guy Ritchie
When asked about Ritchie’s creative style, Brosnan acknowledged the director’s improvisational approach which demanded actors to be well-prepared yet flexible. “He knows what he wants and he gives you great freedom,” Brosnan said, highlighting the trust Ritchie placed in him to develop Conrad authentically.
Returning to the Spy Genre
Brosnan is also set to return to the spy genre with his participation in Steven Soderbergh’s film Black Bag. His experiences in the field, including the juxtaposition of characters in espionage roles, continue to excite him, fueling his passion for diverse storytelling.
Final Thoughts
The prospect of future projects excites Brosnan, who enjoys the challenge and vitality brought by each role. He conveyed, “I love not knowing what’s going to happen next and then materializing something.” As he gears up for the latter part of the MobLand season, fans can expect twists, intrigue, and unforgettable moments as conflict unfolds within the Harrigan family.
What Lies Ahead
Brosnan teased that the remaining episodes will be filled with surprises, stating, “There’s a particular rat in the pack. There’s quite a few surprises… If anything, the writing gets stronger.” As the narrative progresses, audiences will witness how far the characters will go in their quest for power and survival.