Unchosen, the upcoming Netflix thriller, delves into the complexities of human nature and the fine line between hero and villain. Fra Fee, an actor with a penchant for exploring the darker side of characters, shares his insights into the intriguing role of Sam, a mysterious Irish stranger who infiltrates a religious cult.
What makes this show captivating is its exploration of moral ambiguity. Sam, initially introduced as a brave and enigmatic hero, quickly becomes a despicable antagonist, engaging in adultery, violence, and murder. Yet, he also displays moments of extreme kindness and empathy, leaving viewers questioning his true nature.
"I think it's a disservice to label Sam as simply 'the bad guy,'" Fee explains. "His contradictions and complexities make him a fascinating character to portray."
The decision to cast Fee as an Irishman, rather than the originally written English character, adds an intriguing layer to the storytelling. Sam's accent, a version of Fee's own Dungannon dialect, sets him apart as an outsider, enhancing his enigmatic appeal.
"My accent was brilliantly different from the rest of the cast," Fee notes. "It allowed me to embody the 'outsider' role perfectly."
Fee's journey with Sam is a testament to the power of complex character development. Despite Sam's reprehensible actions, Fee developed a deep empathy for the character, a feeling he believes viewers will also experience.
"I wanted to protect Sam," Fee confesses. "His need for repentance and his desire for peace are qualities we can all relate to."
Unchosen promises to be a thought-provoking series, challenging our perceptions of good and evil. With a talented cast, including Christopher Eccleston and Siobhan Finneran, the show is sure to deliver an intense and captivating experience.
"Working with such talented actors was a joy," Fee adds. "The intensity of the story was balanced by the camaraderie we shared off-screen."
As we await the release of Unchosen, one thing is certain: Fra Fee's portrayal of Sam will leave a lasting impression, reminding us that sometimes the devil can be disguised as a charming, intelligent survivor.
