We here at Nerd Alert News have been excited about the upcoming Disney+ show “The Mandalorian“ for weeks. With the release date of Tuesday, Nov. 12th around the corner, we thought our giddiness level had peaked; but then along comes international actor Bernard Bullen.
He plays the father on the show, gives absolutely charming interview answers, and outed himself as a fellow longtime “Star Wars” fan. We thought it would be impossible to do so, but he got us even more hyped for the show! Read about his love for the “Star Wars” universe, his impressions from the set, and get a real-life feel for the emotions and intensity that went into bringing this highly anticipated series to life.
As big horror fans, we were also excited to learn about his more sinister role in the upcoming movie “The Uncanny.” With “The Mandalorian” on the horizon and “The Uncanny” soon to follow, watch out for Bernard Bullen, he might soon be your new nerd fandom favorite!
MJ: Mr. Bullen, first of all, congratulations! The Mandalorian is such a highly anticipated series, part of the successful “Star Wars” saga, and the trailer looks absolutely fantastic. How does it feel to join such an expansive and beloved universe?
Bernard Bullen: Thank you so much! I am absolutely thrilled, I have to say we all are. And yes, the trailer looks fantastic, haha. Well, I’m gonna say it very simple, it’s a total dream come true. Growing up as a child’s watching all the “Star Wars” movies and being a huge fan like everyone in the world, as an actor the last thing I imagined is that I was going to be part of this incredible universe. Still pinching myself. I think I looked at the trailer like 30 times already haha.
MJ: Your role of “Father” on the show sounds fairly mysterious, can you give us a small glimpse into his character or motivations?
BB: The only thing I can say is that they are very dramatic and intense. And it will give a lot of information to the audience about why and how “The Mandalorian” becomes who he is in the show.
MJ: I think I might have spotted you in the most recent “Mandalorian” trailer, in a red tunic, running from blaster fire with a child in your arms (1:05), a fairly physical scene! Did you have to prepare in any specific way for the show?
BB: Yes it was a very very physical role for the few days we were filming. I was warned that it would be and thank God, I am in good shape and I have physical strength. Apart from all the dramatic intensity and the emotion that we had to have, holding a child in your arms for a couple of days, long hours, is no joke haha. Still, it was truly an amazing experience.
MJ: The first clips and pictures from the sets look absolutely phenomenal! Knowing you’ve acted on the show The Last Ship and in the 2018 movie End of the World, action-filled worlds and unusual realities aren’t new to you, but how did you experience the set and costumes of “The Mandalorian?”
BB: I agree. You will see when the first episode airs, the sets and pictures and ambiance of the whole show is so beautiful and at the same time incredible. The set I was working on for those days was also phenomenal. They built parts of a whole city to film our scenes.
MJ: It is beautiful to see all the passion and dedication that came together to make this show a reality! How did it feel to work with the other actors, writers, directors, and everyone on the team behind “The Mandalorian?” Do you have any funny or heartwarming stories from the set?
BB: As soon as I got into set, from make-up, wardrobe to the crew, runners…everyone was 1000% involved and you could see they believed in the project with all their heart. So that’s what I did. I was welcomed in the most amazing way and the director Taika was really incredible. I have to say it felt like a big family, such a good vibe and professionalism. Everyone was really nice. Hmmm…well I don’t know if it’s funny, maybe more emotional. But with all the dramatic intensity I had to portray and also control in between takes, I remember when I was filming my last scene and the director said it’s a wrap, I suddenly looked to my right and I saw one of the houses that had the typical “Star Wars” door open when you press a button …that makes that characteristic noise…Zzzzdddd…You know? I just started crying lol…My inner child – emotional memory I guess!
MJ: Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! I know many “Star Wars” fans cannot wait for the show to start. But let us look a bit into the future. Do you have any other upcoming projects you’re allowed to share with us?
BB: I filmed a horror film this summer called “The Uncanny,” directed by the Vang Brothers. I play a very gruesome and disturbing character. It’s a great project full of great actors and also team. I can’t wait for it to come out. I think March next year!
MJ: Last but not least, as a fellow European who always brings various treats from back home when having the chance, I would love to know if you have any favorite delicacies from Spain or the UK that you like to bring to the US with you?
BB: Well I do love my Serrano Ham (Spain) and some good old Twinings UK tea. Green tea for me.
MJ: Thank you so much for your time and insights, and again, congratulations!
BB: Thanks so much to you guys! I hope you all enjoy the first episode. We can’t wait! Long live these bounty hunters!
Written by MJ, aka “AnotherGalaxyFarFarAway”
