Keegan-Michael Key, the renowned actor and comedian, is stepping into a unique role in the forthcoming horror film “Buddy,” where he takes on the character of Buddy the unicorn. Inspired by a lesser-known 1993 drama featuring Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio, Key’s portrayal draws from intricate emotional and psychological depths that shape his interpretation of this seemingly innocent character.
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In a recent interview, Key discussed how the complexities of his character reflect the subtleties of De Niro’s role in “This Boy’s Life,” a coming-of-age story based on the life of writer Tobias Wolff. In this film, De Niro plays a character whose abusive and manipulative nature ultimately reveals a tragic ignorance of his wrongdoing. Key shared that he saw parallels between Buddy, his character in “Buddy,” and De Niro’s character as both embody a detached form of selfishness.
Key explained, “There’s something at the end of the movie where he’s literally like a little boy. He’s just saying over and over again, ‘But what about me? But what about me?’ Like a baby.” This depiction serves to highlight how Buddy, much like the character played by De Niro, exists within his own narrative unaware of the impact of his actions on those around him.
The film, directed by Casper Kelly, whimsically fuses a children’s theme with the horror genre, beginning in the world of a classic children’s television show. This idealistic setting, reminiscent of beloved ’90s characters such as Barney, sets the stage for Buddy’s seemingly cheerful facade. However, when a child refuses to engage with Buddy’s games, the façade begins to crumble, and dark elements come to the foreground.
Key elaborated on this aspect of horror, stating, “If you’re working in a horror, remember that the character is living in their own story, the story of their life. They have dreams, they have wants, they have desires, they have fears, but they don’t know they’re in a horror movie.” This insight underpins his understanding of Buddy as a character who embodies innocence yet operates within a menacing atmosphere.
As the plot unfolds and one child goes missing, the remaining children realise their lives are at stake. They must navigate through the perilous world created by Buddy, ultimately leading to a quest for survival that takes them beyond the cheerful environment they once knew. In this journey, the film explores themes of fear and the human condition amidst a blend of horror and dark comedy.
Key’s excitement about the project is palpable. He revealed that his return to the horror genre was partly influenced by his collaborator Jordan Peele, known for acclaimed works such as “Get Out.” Key added, “I had so much fun making this movie. I would like to explore this genre more.” This reinvigorated passion for horror is a significant shift for Key, who previously had reservations about the genre.
“Buddy,” featuring Key as the titular unicorn, also stars Cristin Milioti and Topher Grace, who play a married couple, alongside Delaney Quinn as their daughter, Freddy. The film, poised to challenge typical horror conventions by engaging with children’s narratives, is anticipated to resonate with various audiences upon its release.
The film is set to premiere in UK cinemas on August 28, offering viewers a new perspective on traditional horror elements through the lens of childhood innocence and the often dark underlying themes that accompany it. As audiences prepare for the film’s release, Key’s multifaceted portrayal of Buddy promises to leave a lasting impression that reconciles the boundaries between comedy and fear.