Matthew Rhys, the acclaimed actor known for his versatile roles, recently opened up about his intriguing character on the Netflix thriller series, ‘The Beast in Me’. Rhys portrays the complex character of Nile Jarvis, a real estate mogul who becomes a suspect in his wife’s disappearance. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Rhys shared his insights into playing the role of a character he described as “mildly sadistic” with a touch of enjoyment.
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The actor revealed that despite the darkness surrounding Nile Jarvis, there was a certain “fun” aspect to portraying such a layered character. Rhys delved into the intricacies of Nile, highlighting his relish for discomfort and mild sadistic nature. He also explored Nile’s dynamic with the character Aggie, played by Claire Danes, describing their interactions as a thrilling back-and-forth akin to a high-stakes game of tennis.
In ‘The Beast in Me’, the storyline revolves around author and grieving mother Aggie Wiggs, who becomes intrigued by Nile’s mysterious past as he enters her neighbourhood. Rhys explained that Nile’s character was not based on any specific individual but drew inspiration from the complexities of human nature, upbringing, and brain chemistry. The character development focuses on the thin line between Aggie and Nile, showcasing how their impulsive nature could easily lead them to switch roles.
With an ensemble cast including Natalie Morales and Brittany Snow, alongside guest stars like Jonathan Banks and David Lyons, ‘The Beast in Me’ offers a compelling narrative that blends tasteful suspense with a Hitchcockian thriller vibe. Claire Danes, who plays Aggie in the series, described the show as both tasteful and grisly, resonating with Rhys’s sentiment that it embodies the essence of a classic thriller.
Reflecting on his experience portraying Nile, Rhys expressed how the relationship dynamics between Aggie and Nile presented a new and intriguing challenge for him as an actor. He emphasised the power of suspense in dialogue-driven scenes, highlighting the depth and complexity that arises when two characters engage in intense conversations.
‘The Beast in Me’ is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a captivating blend of mystery, suspense, and psychological drama. As Rhys immerses himself in the role of Nile Jarvis, audiences can expect a riveting performance that delves into the darker aspects of human behaviour and relationships.
Overall, Matthew Rhys’s portrayal of Nile Jarvis in ‘The Beast in Me’ showcases his talent for bringing complex and multidimensional characters to life on screen. With the series gaining traction for its gripping storyline and stellar performances, it proves to be a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven narratives.