Denis Šafařík on Playing Negative Roles, Directing, and Theater

Czech actor Denis Šafařík discusses his recent roles, directorial aspirations, and upcoming theater performances, providing insights into his career and artistic preferences.

Returning as Miličnak in “King of Šumava”

Šafařík reprises his role as Miličnak, a border guard, in the second series of “King of Šumava.” He appreciates the chance to play a character that deviates from stereotypical roles. “When David Ondříček occupied me at that time, I was glad that I was playing something that was beyond the more stereotypical characters I was cast in,” he said. “I think the milkman is deceiving the body. Visually looks sympathetic, but his behavior and actions are definitely not nice.”

He emphasizes that Miličnak isn’t simply a villain but “rather a victim of the system, it is a person who does not have a character.” According to Šafařík, the character has “a relatively interesting development and viewers have something to look forward to.”

Embracing Negative Roles

When asked if this was his first predominantly negative role, Šafařík responded, “Problably. If I don’t count the episode bark in Pold (FTV Prima series), were I played the receptionist.” He enjoys the complexity of playing a character “that is not a worldwide good.” This role allows him to explore a different facet of his acting abilities.

Breaking Typecasting

Šafařík acknowledges typecasting as a common issue in the Czech Republic. “I think so, but that’s a general problem in the Czech Republic. Many actors are occupied on a type of type. But sometimes it is nice to give the actors a different type of role,” he observed, highlighting the importance of offering actors diverse roles to showcase their versatility.

The Dynamic with Petr Uhlík

Šafařík shares scenes with Petr Uhlík,who plays Fábek,a character who experiences bullying.He noted, “For me, it was fine, Petr is a great actor and a colleague,” adding that the scenes “were sometimes emotionally challenging, but it belongs to our business and that’s why we do it.”

Honoring Jiří Stránský

Šafařík expresses pride in a particular project due to its connection to the late screenwriter Jiří Stránský. “I’m glad that I can play very well in it. My co -screenwriter Klára Formanová and I know each other well, so I took it as a tribute to her father (screenwriter Jiří Stránský).” He also notes that “It is also after a long time the project from this period, where Karel dobrá plays a positive figure.”

Directorial and Screenwriting Aspirations

After his directorial and screenwriting debut with “small things,” Šafařík confirmed his continued interest in these professions. “I even have a script! Even the fourth version. The last year I am terribly Peru, but I am not in a hurry,” he shared. The new project, tentatively titled “fox,” is “a story of one day of father and his little son” aimed at capturing the “fragility of their relationship.” Peter Bebjak and Rasti Šesták from DNA Production will oversee the production, similar to “small things.”

Directorial Inspirations

Šafařík cites Jorgos Lanthimos, especially his earlier works like “a lobster” and “killing sacred deer,” and Martin McDonagh as directorial inspirations.He appreciates “rawness” and enjoys “working with a situation that may seem humorous and then moves into anxiety.” Moreover,he said “I enjoy exhibiting things that are not pleasant.”

Theater Engagements

Šafařík is actively involved in theater, performing in three plays at the Dejvice Theater, one in ABC, and another under Palmovkou. “I play in three games at the Dejvice Theater, one in ABC and under Palmovkou, in the summer, Marta awaits me again on the summer scene of the kampa Museum,” he confirmed.

Upcoming Theater Role in “Amadeus”

Šafařík is preparing for a role in “Amadeus” at Fidlovačka, with the premiere scheduled for october.”I’m starting to try Amadea on Fidlovačka. The premiere will be in October, directed by Jakub Nvota and I am learning piano, I currently learned an ode for joy.” He expresses enthusiasm for the role, stating, “When I read the game, I realized that if it succeeds, Amadeus is a role that one wants to play.” This marks his second leading role, and he is “really looking forward to it!”

conclusion

Denis Šafařík continues to challenge himself with diverse roles in television and theater, while also pursuing his passion for directing.With his upcoming role in “Amadeus” and directorial projects in development, Šafařík remains a dynamic force in the Czech entertainment industry. Keep an eye out for his future performances and directorial endeavors!