In the heart-pounding psychological thriller Never Let Go, directed by visionary Alexandre Aja, the stakes are high, and the ties that bind can just as easily strangle. The film, which features the iconic Halle Berry, dives into the primal instinct of survival, portraying a mother’s desperate bid to protect her twin sons against an unseen evil lurking just beyond their doorstep. Recently, we caught up with rising stars Anthony B. Jenkins and Percy Daggs IV to discuss their roles, the emotional depths of the film, and the importance of family in a world gone dark.
Words By Angel Neal @angel_stylistbehavior
Photographs Via: LionsGate
Both Anthony and Percy share pivotal roles in the film, embodying the essence of loyalty and courage. Anthony describes his character as “hard-working, trustworthy, and fiercely loyal to Mama,” which underscores the family’s survival instinct in the face of overwhelming danger. “He’s trying to keep the family together,” he adds, emphasizing the stakes of their situation. Percy’s character, Nolan, takes on a different but equally important role. “He’s a bit of a daredevil,” Percy explains, revealing how Nolan’s curiosity drives him to understand the world around him—even as it threatens to tear his family apart. Diving into such intense emotional terrain can be daunting for any actor. For Percy, the loss of his grandparents serves as a poignant reminder of familial bonds. “There’s a song that makes me think about them, and it helps me tap into my emotions,” he shares, revealing a deeply personal connection to his craft. Anthony echoes this sentiment, stating that he draws upon past experiences and the guidance of skilled coaches to find the emotional core of his character.
Working alongside a powerhouse like Halle Berry was not just an honor but a transformative experience for both actors. Percy notes her kindness and generosity, particularly during his audition. “She gave me tips on how to prepare for heavy breathing scenes,” he recalls, showcasing Berry’s commitment to supporting her co-stars. Anthony agrees, praising her for creating a nurturing environment on set. “She was very helpful, especially during those first nerve-wracking moments,” he adds. Aja’s creative direction has been instrumental in shaping the film’s intense narrative. “He’s a genius when it comes to horror,” Anthony declares, while Percy describes Aja as almost therapeutic in his approach, ensuring that the cast felt secure and understood. Both actors are eager for audiences to experience the world Aja has crafted, filled with tension and a gripping narrative.
As the film’s tension escalates, the underlying message becomes clear: family is everything. Both Anthony and Percy hope audiences leave with a renewed appreciation for their own families. “I want people to learn that family is what really matters,” Anthony emphasizes. Percy adds, “I want them to understand the meaning of family and question what’s really going on.”
Photo Credit: Just Jared >
With Never Let Go marking their first foray into the thriller genre, both actors are excited about the future. As they continue to grow in their craft, the lessons learned from this project will undoubtedly shape their careers. “I’m proud of what I was able to do with Halle,” Percy beams, reflecting on the collaborative spirit that made the film a standout. As audiences brace themselves for the chilling experience of Never Let Go, they can expect a story that not only thrills but also resonates with the timeless message of familial love and survival. Anthony B. Jenkins and Percy Daggs IV are talents to watch, proving that even in the darkest times, the bonds that tie us together can lead to our ultimate salvation.
To stay up to date with all things Anthony & follow him on Instagram @anthonybjenkins & @thatkid_percy .
Kommentare