‘I would not be the good guy’

As a seasoned actor and producer with a knack for tackling complex roles, I can certainly appreciate the depth and nuance that Maxine Peake brings to her performances. Her ability to embody characters from various walks of life, each with their unique struggles and triumphs, is truly remarkable.

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In 2025, I’m diving headfirst into my most demanding role yet – while it might not stretch my acting range, it undeniably requires more responsibility. Kicking off the new year with a bang, I’ll be starring in “Playing Nice,” a gripping psychological thriller adapted from JP Delaney’s 2020 novel. What makes this project particularly significant is that it’s our inaugural TV drama at Rabbit Track Pictures, a production company I co-founded with Kitty Kaletsky in 2019. As the first book we optioned, it holds a special place and carries more weight than usual. “It was the first book we optioned,” I recall saying. “We recognized its potential for a TV show, and knew it was the kind of project we wanted to bring to life – rich characters, a captivating hook, a true thriller.

When it comes to Rabbit Track’s creative vision, they emphasize the importance of compelling storytelling above all else. Since projects can take years to develop, it’s crucial to have a deep affection for the material from the start. In the past, they were drawn to ideas that resonated with them personally. Now, with 12 projects in various stages of development, there is a discernible thread connecting them. They strive for high-quality drama featuring complex and relatable characters. Instead of stereotypical heroes and villains, they prefer intricate characterizations, placing these rich personalities in extraordinary circumstances to test their limits and challenge their resilience.

“Playing Nice” is an exceptionally accurate portrayal of a storyline that raises questions perfect for casual discussions at the watercooler (or in group chats if you work remotely). Imagine discovering, three years after your child’s birth, that they were accidentally switched – how would you react? Would you yearn to reunite with your biological child, or have grown too attached to the one you believed was yours?

The struggle faced by journalist Pete (Norton) and his restaurateur spouse Maddie (Niamh Algar) is the same one encountered by Miles, an entrepreneur, and his artist wife Lucy (James McArdle and Jessica Brown Findlay respectively), as they all journey through a psychological maze that no parent ever wants to experience.

The filming process spanned three months in Cornwall, and during this time, the four actors formed an intimate group that often enjoyed surfing on weekends. The experience was genuinely enjoyable, although at times it could get a bit excessive.

Having your own production company gives you the luxury of selecting your cast members, and for Norton, this meant long-awaited collaboration with James McArdle, a fellow alumnus from Rada. “That was an incredibly exciting call,” he reminisces, referring to the moment when he reached out to McArdle about the opportunity. “James is exceptional; he’s truly gifted.

If you want drama, kids are the highest stakes you can get

He only knew the others loosely, but says, “Jessie and Niamh were top of the list of people I admired, so to be able to bring everyone together was the best feeling. They’re all great actors who were firing on all cylinders. They came and they cared. A trust was formed early on that meant the scenes just fizzed. We had a great director in Kate Hewitt and a great script by Grace Ofori-Attah. When that alchemy hits, it’s the best job in the world.” Norton is equally full of praise for the child actors who played Theo and David, as well as the casting director, Fiona Weir. “One of the best in the business.”

Without needing to act like Inspector Clouseau, it’s evident that a recurring theme in Norton’s latest work, “Playing Nice,” can be noticed. This is because “Playing Nice” follows his portrayal of scientist Robert Edwards in the true story of the world’s first IVF baby, “Joy.” Additionally, Norton will be bringing Elizabeth Day’s novel about fertility, “Magpie,” to television.

My cat has labeled my current role as ‘Sad Dad,’ which seems fitting, although it’s not a part I’m guaranteed to play. Most of the projects we’re working on aren’t roles for me personally. However, these days, I find myself surrounded by kids due to various circumstances. If you’re searching for intense drama, children are the highest-stakes area to focus on.

One significant theme in the play revolves around postpartum depression, an issue Norton was committed to handling sensitively. “It’s crucial to share such stories more often, as they haven’t received enough attention or empathy. Women’s health issues, on the whole, have been overlooked. The number of individuals who have spoken up after watching Joy, expressing gratitude for a film addressing endometriosis – such a common yet underrepresented condition – underscores the importance of visibility.

“It’s a really horrible truth that male health is way more developed than women’s. It felt like a good opportunity to tell a story about someone who has gone through post-natal depression, and address some of the taboos around it.”

As a movie enthusiast, I found myself drawn not to the role of Miles, the antagonist, but to Pete. Contrary to popular belief, playing someone close to you brings a unique kind of challenge. It’s not just about acting; it’s about introspection. I spent countless hours contemplating who Pete is – a good-hearted individual who sees the best in others and maintains an optimistic outlook.

As a supporter, I’d rephrase it as: “Pete is a great guy, but he’s an avoidant type. However, his decision to put aside his career to care for Theo and take on the primary caregiver role is truly commendable. Friends of mine have made similar choices, and I hold them in high esteem. It’s a significant decision, one that not everyone feels comfortable with due to societal norms.

My casting bracket now has been coined as Sad Dad

Pete initially chooses a certain path, assuming that being a contemporary partner means simply making room for his wife. However, he later understands that it’s also essential for him to take charge. This often requires assertiveness and even challenging situations. In today’s world, there are individuals like Miles who don’t always play fair. To navigate such situations, one must occasionally be direct or even a bit harsh. A true modern man is a blend of qualities, so discussions about contemporary masculinity were thought-provoking.

According to Norton, a great psychological thriller lies in stirring intense discussions. When a gathering of individuals find themselves divided over a character, it signifies success, as this indicates delving into the complexities that define humanity.

If I were in Pete’s position, I wouldn’t be like him because I’m generally calm, but when I witness injustice, it makes me extremely upset. As I grow older, I find it harder and harder to tolerate such situations. I will express my feelings and take action, not out of a natural inclination to confront, but because I believe in speaking my mind – sometimes perhaps too candidly. I was brought up by people who were not afraid to speak up. We’re not passive-aggressive; instead, we choose to address issues directly.

Following a traditional Christmas filled with family gatherings, scenic walks, and hearty meals in Oxfordshire, Norton is wrapping up the year by spending a week at a serene Buddhist retreat in France. He finds it invigorating, he says with a smile. Although it’s semi-silent, his phone remains off for the entire duration, which he finds refreshing. The New Year celebration is particularly memorable, as it brings together around 500 retreatants in a large community, offering numerous meditation sessions and walks. It’s an emotionally stirring experience. He highly recommends it as a way to kickstart the new year.

Opting for a morning without a hangover definitely offers an advantage, especially considering his jam-packed 2025 schedule which includes roles in Heart of Darkness, King and Conqueror, and House of Guinness, along with his production duties. With such a demanding lineup, Norton will surely appreciate the clarity of mind.

2024-12-23 16:35

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