Kit Harington: “I loved portraying humanity in Eternals”

By María Estévez, MWN

Kit Harington will always be the ageless Jon Snow, a character he played for eight seasons in the ‘Game of Thrones’ series. But now he joins the team of Marvel Cinematic Universe superheroes in a new film, directed by Chloé Zhao.

Playing Dane Whitman in ‘Eternals,’ Harington shows off his action movie chops. Dane has a lot in common with Snow in terms of mythology and dynasty. 

His character’s dynasty in ‘Eternals’ goes back to the medieval legend of King Arthur and the figure of the Black Knight, a hero connected to the cursed ebony blade that grants power and madness to everyone using it. 

Metro recently spoke with Harington to learn more. 

Why did you decide to participate in ‘Eternals’?

Who doesn’t want to represent humanity? I like Dane for his sense of humor, for the mystery he generates around him. I just hope his appearance in the Marvel universe doesn’t end here. From my perspective, it’s been great to play a character that has something to say. He brings hope to the audience from the moment he appears on screen because he’s the one who introduces the movie. If Marvel calls an actor offering an interesting character, it’s hard to refuse.  

How did you get to play the character?

I got a call from producer Nate Moore and then had a meeting with Kevin Feige. They offered me the opportunity to be in this movie, but I didn’t accept right away. It was later when I met Chloé Zhao that I was finally convinced.

What does it mean for you to create a character from the physical perspective?

I like to change my body for my characters. Filming ‘Game of Thrones’ turned me into a body cult fanatic, and I’ve been trying to take care of myself ever since. ‘Eternals’ was demanding, but I was ready to do it. Dave is also a very philosophical guy who embodies the idea that nothing is certain, nothing is forever, and that’s the first thing an actor learns in this industry.

Do you like mythological stories?

Yes, very much so. I’ve always liked them. I like to spend my time reading stories. As an actor, I want to play relevant, current, modern characters, but it’s also wonderful to dive into the fictional world of superheroes because they are part of today’s mythology. Also, just being able to participate in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is appealing in itself. It’s exciting to be part of this group of superheroes.

How was it to work with Chloé Zhao?

She has a different way of working than other directors I’ve shot with. She likes to be realistic, shooting on location looking for a deep dimension of the characters. I think she is a filmmaker capable of striking a balance between the action scenes and the message that the plot of the story requires. Marvel always has moments of humor, comedy, scenes that change the tone of the film.

‘Eternals’ is now showing in theaters.