“Monster”’s Tobias Jelinek Reveals Dark Connection Between Serial Killer Drama and His First Film, “Hocus Pocus” (Exclusive)

‘Monster’s’ Tobias Jelinek Uncovers Startling Connection Between Serial Killer Drama and His Debut Film, ‘Hocus Pocus’ (Exclusive)

Tobias Jelinek, known for his role in ‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story,’ sheds light on the intriguing link between his character in the serial killer drama and his initial appearance in the beloved film ‘Hocus Pocus.’ Jelinek starred as Richard Speck in ‘Monster,’ offering a chilling portrayal of the infamous serial killer. However, his journey in the entertainment industry began with his role as Jay, a teenage bully, in the cult classic ‘Hocus Pocus’ back in 1993.

Reflecting on his experience, Jelinek shared with PEOPLE that initially, he wasn’t well-acquainted with Richard Speck before auditioning for the role. Delving into his character’s psyche, he aimed to strike a balance between script analysis and imaginative exploration. Jelinek found an unexpected connection between Richard Speck and Ed Gein, the focal point of ‘Monster,’ which enhanced his performance and understanding of the narrative.

In ‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story,’ Jelinek stepped into the shoes of Richard Speck, a figure known as the Birdman due to his horrendous crimes, including the brutal murder of eight nursing students in 1966. Immersing himself in the role, Jelinek explored the depths of Speck’s character and the intricate web of relationships in the storyline created by Ian Brennan.

The gripping series not only delves into the lives of notorious criminals like Gein and Speck but also serves as a catalyst for thought-provoking conversations about the realm of true crime. Jelinek emphasized the importance of sparking dialogue through storytelling, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between characters like Gein and Speck.

Moreover, Jelinek drew parallels between the themes explored in ‘Monster’ and his earlier involvement in ‘Hocus Pocus.’ He highlighted the shared fascination with dark elements of human nature, evident in both the Salem Witch Trials depicted in ‘Hocus Pocus’ and the eerie world of serial killers like Ed Gein.

In the Disney favourite ‘Hocus Pocus,’ Jelinek made his debut alongside industry icons Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy. The film follows the story of three witches resurrected in modern-day Salem, capturing the essence of the supernatural with a touch of darkness that resonates with audiences to this day.

As ‘Monster’ gained traction on Netflix, coinciding with the Halloween season, Jelinek appreciated the support from fans of ‘Hocus Pocus.’ He recognised the underlying tone of horror in the Disney film, originally conceived with a darker and scarier vision before its final production under the title ‘Disney’s Halloween House.’

In conclusion, Tobias Jelinek’s journey from ‘Hocus Pocus’ to ‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story’ unveils a captivating narrative that intertwines the realms of fantasy and reality. His portrayal of Richard Speck reflects a nuanced understanding of complex characters, bridging the gap between two seemingly disparate genres of entertainment. As audiences delve into the depths of these distinct narratives, the common threads of human nature and fascination with the macabre continue to resonate, sparking conversations that transcend the screen.