Dacre Montgomery Says Living with OCD Inspired His “Faces of Death” Villain: Here’s How (Exclusive)

**Dacre Montgomery Explores the Darkness of OCD in Latest Horror Role**

Dacre Montgomery, the talented Australian actor known for his roles in popular series and films, has taken on a compelling challenge in his latest project, “Faces of Death.” In this chilling horror film, he portrays Arthur, a meticulous murderer who recreates notorious killings from the infamous and controversial 1978 film of the same name, which was long thought to be a real snuff film. The film is currently showing in theatres and also features performances from Charli XCX, Josie Totah, Aaron Holliday, and Jermaine Fowler.

The character of Arthur delves into the psyche of a killer, where obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) plays a significant role in shaping his methods. For Montgomery, this aspect of the character resonates deeply with his personal life, revealing a unique connection to the villain he portrays. He describes the element of OCD as one of the most relatable aspects of his character, stating, “That’s just definitely my thing. I live with that and I manage it.”

Montgomery’s portrayal emphasises Arthur’s “methodical” nature, showcasing an intense focus and meticulous attention to detail. He comments on this connection further, explaining that while he does not relate to the more violent aspects of the character, the obsessive attention to specifics resonates with his approach to acting. “From the time that you see him in the movie, he’s halfway to enacting his plan and he’s put a lot of thought into that,” he shares, highlighting how this thoroughness is a common thread in his performance choices.

Director Daniel Goldhaber, who co-wrote the film, acknowledges Montgomery’s personal experiences as integral to crafting Arthur’s character. Goldhaber recalls his initial meetings with various actors and how Montgomery stood out by bringing a personal narrative to the role. “Dacre showed up and it was like, ‘Here’s all the ways that I relate to Arthur personally,’” Goldhaber explained. This insight allowed Montgomery to infuse the character with a layer of depth that would likely have been absent had a different actor taken on the role.

A fascinating element presented by Goldhaber is how Montgomery’s real-life experiences with OCD added nuance to Arthur’s character. The director shared an example of Montgomery’s struggle, revealing that the actor had been unable to sleep under bed covers for nearly a decade due to discomfort against the fabric. “He only ever slept on top of the bedsheets,” Goldhaber said, recognising how such details contribute to an enriching performance.

As the film unfolds, it explores not only the gruesome aspects of Arthur’s murders but also the psychological elements that govern his actions. Goldhaber mentions that the character’s relationship with texture—specifically the material of the skinsuit and latex he wears during the murders—was initially unplanned but emerged organically throughout the character development process. This unexpected depth transforms Arthur into more than just a standard horror villain.

In discussing the development of Arthur’s character, Goldhaber notes that the interplay between Montgomery’s understanding of OCD and the inherent alienation that accompanies it offers viewers a multifaceted portrayal. “It’s not that he’s a psychopathic person or a serial killer — he related to Arthur’s OCD and sense of alienation,” highlighted the director. This indicates a character that allows audiences to explore themes of connection and disconnection, framed through the lens of horror.

“Faces of Death” is not only a testament to Montgomery’s adaptability as an actor but also a film that challenges viewers to confront the darker aspects of the human psyche. With its release in theatres, the film aims to shed light on complex subjects interwoven within a thrilling narrative. As audiences delve into the chilling world crafted by Montgomery and Goldhaber, they may find themselves questioning the boundaries between madness and method, horror and humanity.

As the film continues to receive attention, Montgomery’s performance stands out as a highlight, showcasing his ability to navigate through challenging material while remaining relatable to an audience. “Faces of Death” serves as a platform for Montgomery to explore the intricacies of OCD in a manner that resonates on multiple levels, merging personal experience with a chilling narrative that captivates its viewers.