Cleaner Star Talks About Playing a “Psycho” Villain and Working With Martin Campbell

Viewers might know actor Taz Skylar as the charismatic Sanji in Netflix’s One Piece adaption, but he reveals an entirely new facet of his talent in the upcoming action flick Cleaner. In this movie, Skylar plays Noah, a member of an ecological protest group that disrupts a corrupt energy company’s exclusive gala. While the leader, Marcus (Clive Owen), is more composed and prefers non-violent methods, Noah can be volatile and erratic, adding to the danger he poses. Skylar enjoyed taking on this role and found it somewhat therapeutic for him too.

In an interview with ComicBook, Skylar expressed that Noah’s rhetoric was deeply rooted in logic and carried powerful messages. This made him feel empowered to express these ideas boldly and passionately, almost shouting them out.

Skylar additionally discussed the distinct aspects between Noah’s and Owen’s portrayals of Marcus, outlining his unique methods during filming.

Skylar shared that during filming, they would often challenge themselves by doing something unexpected instead of their initial plan in each scene. Martin Campbell, the director, was fantastic at allowing this freedom and giving room for such experimentation because he actively supported such unconventional ideas. Even though he might not have always liked the alternative approaches Skylar came up with, he was very supportive of trying out new things.

The actor went on to say, “Noah’s strength lies in not doing what you anticipate, as I cannot. I can’t strive to surpass Clive, for he possesses an immense magnitude and presence that is truly extraordinary, both on screen and off. Consequently, there’s no way for me to match him, so my approach is to do something utterly distinct.

The character known as “Cleaner” is depicted in a story set in modern-day London. A band of passionate activists storm an energy company’s annual event, capturing around 300 guests to reveal the company’s corruption. However, their noble objective is distorted by an extremist among them, who threatens to kill everyone inside to broadcast his chaotic ideology globally. In this situation, it’s a former soldier-turned window cleaner, portrayed by Ridley, who finds himself hanging 50 stories high on the building’s exterior, with the mission of rescuing those trapped within, including his younger brother.

For Skylar, working on the Cleaner project was an unforgettable journey as he had the opportunity to collaborate with action film veteran Martin Campbell, who is renowned for directing some of the greatest action movies in cinematic history. Skylar, having grown up admiring Campbell’s earlier works, felt nothing short of inspired while working alongside this legendary director on set.

As a dedicated cinephile, I find his work iconic – it’s the kind of stuff that leaves an indelible mark. Growing up, I was captivated by his movies and found no one else whose vision I yearned to be a part of more than him. If given the chance in my lifetime, I’d be overjoyed to create a film as timeless as those I still eagerly rewatch, for such an accomplishment would make me a content man indeed.

Speaking as a film enthusiast, let me tell you, Martin has always been someone I’ve longed to collaborate with. Working alongside him on this project finally shed light on why he’s held in such high regard. His work is nothing short of iconic, and that’s due to his unyielding determination, unwillingness to compromise, and an energy level that outpaces every youngster present, even at the ripe age of 80! He’s a force of nature, yet tender as a teddy bear. Simply put, he’s one of the most wonderful, caring individuals I’ve had the pleasure of encountering.

Cleaner opens in theaters on February 21st.

2025-02-20 19:42

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