Emma Thompson Stars in ‘The Dead of Winter’: From Action Scenes to Finnish Landscapes
Emma Thompson takes on an unexpected action role at age 66 in the thrilling new film The Dead of Winter, directed by Brian Kirk. The movie follows a widowed fisherwoman who becomes entangled in a kidnapping case while traveling through snowy northern Minnesota.
A New Challenge for the Veteran Actress
Thompson plays a solitary fisherwoman who discovers and interrupts the kidnapping of a teenage girl (portrayed by Laurel Marsden of Ms. Marvel). Miles from civilization and without phone service, she becomes the girl’s only hope for survival.
“Why start this action thing when you’re 66?! That’s just stupid,” Thompson joked during a press conference at the 78th Locarno Film Festival, where she discussed the physical demands of the role.
Behind the Scenes Challenges
- Extensive cold weather training in Finland
- Physically demanding underwater scenes
- Complex costume considerations, particularly with gloves for action sequences
A Personal Connection
The film features a unique family collaboration, with Thompson’s daughter Gaia Wise playing the younger version of her character. The story delves into themes of sacrifice, capability, and the impact of life experiences on personal growth.
Production Details
Written by Nicholas Jacobson-Larson and Dalton Leeb, the film also stars Judy Greer, Marc Menchaca, and Brían F. O’Byrne. Director Brian Kirk describes it as “a merciless kidnap thriller set in epic snowbound wilderness with a beautiful love story at its heart.”
The movie was filmed in Finland, with Thompson enthusiastically endorsing the location: “Finland is so fabulous. You all have to go!”
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