James Watson  

The Landsraad Interview

James Watson was kind of enough to agree to an interview with the Landsraad creator, DuneFan/Paul Atreides_66. Mr. Watson let us know ahead of time that he was not able to answer any questions regarding the new Dune production, which confirmed for us that he is reprising his role as Duncan Idaho/Hayt in the new Frank Herbert's Children of Dune production, but we were wrong as the scifi channel decided they wanted a different actor.

How did you become interested in acting?

My family reckons I?ve been acting since the day I was born, but it took a while before I realized I wanted to make a career of it. I met Deirdre O?Connell in Ireland, who had trained with Lee Strasberg over thirty years ago before she founded the Focus Theatre in Dublin. She took an interest in my acting and invited me to attend her studio. Sadly she passed away earlier this year. I miss her criticism.

What do you consider your first big break?

At different stages of my career I regarded certain roles, as turning points or breaks, but Dune would have to be the biggest so far.

Are you partial to performing on the stage or screen?

I enjoy both. However, I find the grass is always greener on the other side. After spending a while on stage I want to get back in front of the camera, and vice versa.

Concerning your career, what are your future plans (writing, directing, etc.)?

To continue in the role of Duncan Idaho. Perform in a one-man show and finish the script I?m writing, and direct it.

How does it feel to be on stage performing?

The ?water of life?

What is your own favorite performance to date?

Difficult question, I?ve enjoyed every role, therefore;

Duncan Idaho, for all the reasons listed here and more.

Jesus Christ in Mysteries 2000. One of the truly wonderful spiritual experiences of my life. A stylish, beautiful, 3 ? hour epic show.

Mark Renton in Trainspotting. The complete other end of the spectrum, a man with no morals. Raw, in your face, physical theatre.

How do you prepare yourself for a role?

Research and lots of it. Write pages of notes. Meditation.

Who would you like to work with (performer, director) in the future?

The cast of the Dune mini-series and John Harrison. Jack Nicholson, Anthony Hopkins, Cate Blanchett, Sean Penn and Joel Schumacher, to name a few.

Are you creative in ways other than acting?

Reading and writing poetry / stills photography.

Who is your favorite playwright?

David Mamet

Had you read Dune before the miniseries went into production?

No, but I read all the books up to the Heretics of Dune as part of my research (including House Atreides) and became a fan.

How much of James Watson did you bring to the role of Duncan?

Everything

What were you feeling at the prospect of portraying Duncan?

Aware that I had an obligation to the Dune fans and did not want to let them down.

Given the popularity of the character, have you received fan mail based on your portrayal of Duncan?

Yes

What are your thoughts on Duncan?

A reliable, good man, who lives by a code of honor. I would like to have Duncan as a friend.

Did you enjoy working with such a large ensemble cast?

Yes, the talent and diversity of the cast and crew was incredible and a joy to work with

What was it like when you first walked onto the Dune sets?

Surreal. It was winter, 10 minus outside in Prague, then I entered this massive sound stage which had been transformed into a desert.

What were your thoughts when you viewed the completed miniseries?

Proud to be part of such an epic production.

Would you portray Duncan in the sequels?

Yes

If you had to portray a Dune character other than Duncan, who would it be?

Sorry, I am Duncan Idaho