Rogue One Star Mads Mikkelsen On Being A Part Of The Star Wars Universe

Having starred in NBC’s Hannibal television series and Daniel Craig’s first Bond film Casino Royale, Mads Mikkelsen is well aware of the pressure that comes with being a part of well-known property, however, his upcoming role in Rogue One will bring him into the Star Wars, which is a whole other animal. Is he prepared for how big it is?

“It is a big thing, but so was Hannibal and so was Bond,” Mikkelsen told IGN. “The thing is, we don’t go to change the “thing” about it. We address it as a job. We focus on the character and start working. We also are aware that it’s the Star Wars universe. We are aware. But that hat, we can’t wear all the time. We have to focus on each individual scene. So I think this is one of these things that will dawn on you later when you actually see the film. In the midst of it, it’s a different thing.”

As for the look and feel of Rogue One, it sounds as though director Gareth Edwards (Godzilla) will be adding his own personal touches and the tone of the film will be different from previous Star Wars films. “I believe that is true to a degree,” Mikkelsen offered. “It’s still the Star Wars universe, but there is… There might be a personal take on that from Gareth [Edwards], as well. And it should be like that, right? And tomorrow you will find me dead in a river somewhere because I said that.”

Mikkelsen will also appear in another high-profile project: Doctor Strange. He didn’t divulge any details, but that’s because he has a very good reason. “I haven’t shot anything yet,” he shared. “So I’ve been spending my time running rehearsal on all kind of things. That is probably the reason why you will see me shot tomorrow – is for saying that.”

The film is being directed by Gareth Edwards (Godzilla). The cast includes Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Alan Tudyk, Mads Mikkelsen, Forest Whitaker, and Riz Ahmed.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story will be in theaters on December 16, 2016.