Crisis on a first date: Hollywood actor Brandon Sklenar on twisted romance behind new thriller 'Drop'

Initially, I thought, “What is this guy doing?” That’s because if I were on a first date with someone who is constantly checking their phone and going to the bathroom, very distracted, I would probably just take off. So, for me, it was about answering that question and figuring out what makes him stay so that the audience understands him too. But on the page, he just read like a kind and patient man, and I think there is beauty in the simplicity of that, which you don’t see a lot of. Henry really likes this woman and has compassion for what she is going through, and that was something nice to lean into.

Yes, and it was interesting to figure that out precisely because of how internalised and subtle his arc is. It was almost like finding his morality as well. I don’t think Henry has been in a relationship for a long time, and now he is starting to fall in love while all this stuff is going on, including considering exposing the mayor he works for as a press photographer.

Well, it’s a new relationship after having been texting, FaceTiming, and whatnot for a few months. This is ultimately their first encounter, so they are just two crazy kids going on a date.

She’s definitely very kind and genuine, and obviously a caring mother who prioritises that over everything. I think that really comes across in the character, which is also a testament to Meghann, who is such a great person and so kind and lovely. Violet doesn't have any ulterior motives or is manipulative in any way, which is ironic because she's trying to hide so much of what she's going through, but it's very difficult for her to do so.

The feeling of being trapped and not being able to do anything about it. You can’t text or call anybody, and you are being watched and listened to at all times. It just feels like you are being pushed up against a wall, and that’s absolutely terrifying—especially when your family’s lives are being threatened. The story about being constantly watched is something everybody can relate to, even if you haven’t had a psychopath airdrop you things. I think anybody can relate to that sort of technological prison we all live in, unfortunately.

There’s way more humor in this than I initially expected, which I think will be a nice juxtaposition to the intense real-life stakes Violet and Henry are going through.

I’m a big horror movie guy, and I’ve seen all his films. I liked Freaky—I thought it was very well done. That horror-comedy tone is such a hard thing to do, and I thought he just absolutely killed it with that movie. Working with him on Drop has been exceptionally lovely. Chris’s vibe is unlike anything I’ve experienced in terms of how calm he is and how there’s no tension on set. It’s just a pleasant experience, which ultimately is the best way to make something great and foster creativity. After the first week of shooting, we found our groove and a really nice rhythm with each other. It’s just great to have a collaboration like that where neither of us is too precious with anything—it’s the best way to do it.