Mark Strong, a well-known British actor who commands attention on screen, offers a distinct viewpoint on the custom of British actors playing antagonists in Hollywood productions. The rich theatrical upbringing that many British actors receive, where they are exposed to and frequently play complex characters like Macbeth and Richard III, is the source of this tradition.
The villains in Shakespeare's plays are complex characters who are full of ambition, dishonesty, and tragedy rather than being flat antagonists. Young actors learn the nuances of playing morally complex characters who could be likable under some circumstances from these roles. Because they have been conditioned to view these characters as fully formed human beings rather than just villains, British actors frequently feel more at ease playing villainous roles.
Strong's statement illustrates how their upbringing equips them to meet Hollywood's need for nuanced antagonists who advance the plot. It's similar to sowing seeds in a garden; if you grow a wide range of plants from a young age, they will become robust and adaptable. In a similar vein, British actors who have studied classic literature are better suited to play a variety of roles in foreign films.
This tradition has been personified by Mark Strong, who has played a variety of villains in a variety of genres. His portrayals of Archie Steel in "Kingsman: The Secret Service" and Alexander Litvinenko in "The Courier" demonstrate the nuance and complexity he brings to these roles. His portrayals of villains are captivating and unforgettable because he not only plays them but also understands them.
Strong's remark essentially emphasizes how an actor's approach to difficult roles can be shaped by a rich theatrical education, which helps explain why British actors in Hollywood blockbusters continue to be so popular.