Jackie Earle Haley, who? Exactly, most people on first hearing this name would not have much of a clue as to who it is. However, they will do soon, as Haley is about to step into one of the most iconic and if not most famous horror villains of all time.
Freddy Krueger has been terrorising peoples dreams for many years, across eight films to be exact, and while they might have not been Oscar winners they certainly have a cult following with horror fans. Robert Englund was the original, he brought the character to life, in his own unique way which was a success despite flaws in a number the films storylines and plots.
“I’m hoping that everyone, from the hardcore fans to regular movie goers, responds well to the new Freddy,” says the 48-year-old Haley speaking to the Times online, who comes across as a quiet if somewhat shy individual.
“But I also hope that they can see how we re-imagined it without deviating too much from what made it cool and bitchin’ in the first place.”
The reboot is surely one of the most eagerly anticipated films to be released for someone time, and it will ensure that it is a trip to Elm street that no one is likely to forget in a hurry. It’s going to be dark, suspenseful, gripping it will take you by the jugular and squeeze your inner fears till you can’t take anymore.
Comparisons should not be made between this latest release and the other films, Haley explains that he wanted his Freddy to be “a little less camp and bit scarier than the original”, adding: “But it’s important that we don’t forget what a fine job that Robert Englund did over the years.”
Hayley researched the role by delving deep into the minds of real life serial killers but took a step back and let his real motivation come from the grueling latex work that he had to undergo every day for 3 hours, not to mention itchy contacts that made him practically sightless.
“By the time I was finished, with the lenses and the make-up, I was ready to put the glove on and get slicing!” he says.
Hayley has already been a part of other Hollywood blockbuster films, including Watchmen and Shutter Island respectively, and established himself as a credible actor considering his early life where he almost gave up acting altogether.
Now though, he’s looking to the future and says that he sees himself on posters and billboards every day. He may have once lost the dream before, but Hayley insists that if it happens again then he’ll be ready.
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[...] not a “re-imaging”(hah) of Robert Englund's original performances as Freddy Krueger in allRobert Englund – Jackie Earl Haley did a great job with this iconic character, and gave us his OWN performance as [...]