Damian Lewis Takes a Hilarious Turn into the Absurd with Fackham Hall
Damian Lewis, renowned for his intense roles in prestige dramas, is now venturing into the world of absurd comedy with his latest project, Fackham Hall. In an exclusive interview with PLAY, the actor shared insights into this unexpected career shift, describing the film as a unique blend of classic British period drama and American spoof humour.
A Departure from Dramatic Roots
Lewis, best known for his breakout role in the Tom Hanks-Steven Spielberg miniseries Band of Brothers and the nail-biting espionage series Homeland, has built a reputation for dramatic depth. He has also showcased his versatility in period works like The Forsyte Saga and the hit series Billions, where he played an unscrupulous hedge fund manager. However, Fackham Hall marks a significant departure, offering audiences a glimpse into Lewis's comedic side.
"I think it feels like Downton Abbey meets Naked Gun, doesn't it," Lewis suggested during a Zoom call. "Or Gosford Park meets Flying High! Or something." This comparison highlights the film's playful approach, which co-writer Jimmy Carr has infused with an avalanche of sight and wordplay gags, reminiscent of American comedy classics.
Exploring British Humour and Class Satire
In the pantheon of British humour, which includes the sharp wit of Blackadder and the absurdity of Monty Python, Fackham Hall stands out as an oddity. Lewis explained that the film's humour is not caustic or cynical but rather innocent and loving, poking fun at the pomposity of period dramas and the British class system without malice.
"I think being able to sort of prick the pomposity of the genre is quite easy to do, but, at the same time, I think this film does it very lovingly," the actor said. "It isn't a caustic, acerbic, cynical kind of humour. There's an innocence, I think, that exists in this film."
Plot and Characters in Fackham Hall
In Fackham Hall, Lewis plays Lord Davenport, the dim-witted patriarch of an aristocratic family in the early 1930s, who have more money than sense. The plot thickens when Davenport has no male heirs, leading his wife, Lady Davenport (Katherine Waterston), to devise a plan to marry their daughter, Poppy (Thomasin McKenzie), to her cousin (Tom Felton). However, Poppy falls in love with a petty crook, Eric (Ben Radcliffe), who works for the Davenports.
Adding to the chaos, the apparent murder of Lord Davenport triggers a full-blown criminal investigation, turning the film into a Poirot parody where every person at Fackham Hall is a suspect. This layered narrative allows Lewis to explore both comedic and mysterious elements, showcasing his range as an actor.
Reflections on a Pivotal Career
Looking back on his career, Lewis acknowledged the transformative impact of being cast as US Army major Dick Winters in Band of Brothers. "Oh god, I think it changed everything," he admitted, noting that the series was at the vanguard of the golden age of TV. His role in Homeland as Nicholas Brody further cemented his status, earning him an Emmy and global recognition.
"I was lucky to get Homeland," Lewis said with a laugh, sharing how creator Alex Gansa discovered him through the indie film Keane. "So, maybe this is naive, but you like to think that good work brings good work."
Future Projects and Passions
Beyond acting, Lewis is pursuing other creative endeavours. He confided that he has been working on a film he intends to direct and is seeking funding. Additionally, his passion for music continues, with a follow-up to his 2023 debut album, Mission Creep, expected before mid-year. "If I spent six months just playing to clubs with 400 people in them, I'd be happy," he said, expressing his love for live performances.
For now, Lewis is content bringing laughter to audiences through Fackham Hall, viewing the gentle lampooning of the British upper class as a victimless crime. "They're all cash poor, so they've all turned their great stately homes into gardens for the public," he quipped. "But, mostly, I think they're having a pretty good time, and essentially getting away with it."
Fackham Hall is currently in cinemas, offering a fresh and humorous take on classic British drama.
