Mason Thames Says an Acting Tip He Took from Dave Franco Didn’t Go Over Well on “How to Train Your Dragon 2 ”(Exclusive)

**Mason Thames Reflects on Costar Dave Franco’s Unique Method Acting Techniques**

Mason Thames has shared an amusing anecdote about his filming experience on the set of *How to Train Your Dragon 2*, where he momentarily adopted a technique employed by his co-star Dave Franco during their recent collaboration, *Idiots*. The film, which opens in theatres on 28 August, features both actors in lead roles and showcases their evolving friendship.

Thames, 19, recounted how Franco, known for his dedicated approach to acting, offered an unconventional tip to ensure he maintained a limp for his character in *Idiots*. While filming in Atlanta last year, Franco discovered that he often forgot to limp during particular scenes. To remedy this, he opted to place a jagged rock in his shoe to create the necessary physical discomfort.

“Full Franco,” as his co-stars affectionately dubbed him, created this strategy for his character, Mark, who is depicted as having to limp throughout a significant portion of the film. Franco explained that the decision stemmed from frustration during the filming process. “I did two takes where I was like, ‘Oh, my God, I forgot to do the limp,’” he recalled. The actor ultimately realised that the rock trick would help him internalise the character’s struggle better.

Thames decided to try out the same method when he found himself needing to limp in the upcoming *How to Train Your Dragon* sequel. However, he was quickly advised against it by the film’s crew who pointed out the unnecessary pain it would cause. “They said, ‘Don’t do that. It hurts. You don’t need to do that,’” he stated, reflecting on the experience.

The comic caper *Idiots* follows two hapless individuals, Mark and Davis, played by Franco and O’Shea Jackson Jr., who are tasked with delivering a wealthy teenager named Sheridan, played by Thames, to a rehabilitation centre. As the plot unfolds, what begins as a straightforward job spirals into chaotic mayhem, bringing plenty of laughs along the way.

Originally titled *The S—heads*, *Idiots* represents the second major collaboration between Thames and Franco, following their work together in *Regretting You*, an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s popular novel. Thames joked about their budding friendship during the promotion of *Idiots*, suggesting that their creative partnership had morphed into a lifelong bond.

Franco echoed his co-stars sentiments, remarking on the joys of working with familiar faces. “It’s just so much more fun when you’re working with people you know and love,” he said. He highlighted how such an environment fosters creativity and encourages taking risks in their performances.

Ensuring everyone feels comfortable and supported on set, Thames chimed in jest, “It happens. It’s part of the job. I’m so blessed.” This camaraderie appears to be a driving force behind their successful collaboration, allowing both actors to push the limits of their performances while sharing laughter throughout the filming process.

With strong mutual respect, the pair’s collaboration has led to memorable on-screen moments that resonate with audiences. As *Idiots* prepares to hit theatres, fans of both actors will surely be eager to see how this new comedy unfolds, benefitting from the chemistry they developed over time.

In conclusion, Thames’ experience highlights the sometimes eccentric lengths actors go to in their craft and serves as a testament to the dedicated, albeit unconventional, methods employed by some in the film industry.