Irish actor Brendan Gleeson, who has acted in both independent and Hollywood blockbusters, has a deep understanding of the psychology involved in portraying morally dubious or outright evil characters. He frequently discusses the attraction these roles have for actors in interviews.

Because antagonists are not subject to the same restrictions as protagonists, Gleeson notes that many actors find playing antagonists to be more fascinating and freeing. These "bad guys" frequently live in a society devoid of moral obligations and social conventions. An actor can feel empowered by playing a character who is unconcerned with the repercussions of their actions, which enables them to explore more sinister facets of human nature without fear.

Imagine performers entering these roles as though they were entering a fantasy world where all the rules are broken but also understood in a new way. The same way that a person might be energized by the freedom of breaking the law on a wild night out, actors can feel the same rush when they play villains on screen. Many actors find these roles very appealing because of the intoxicating sense of power and freedom they can provide.

In addition to highlighting the artistic decisions made in acting, Brendan Gleeson's observations provide insight into societal norms and more general human motivations. His observations compel us to think about how, in stories, characters who defy expectations could stand in for more profound themes of liberation, rebellion, and the attraction of power.