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The Thursday Murder Club star Daniel Mays has opened up about why he felt 'uncomfortable' while filming Netflix's hotly anticipated adaptation of Richard Osman's bestselling novel.
The A Thousand Blows actor takes on the role of DCI Chris Hudson in the star-studded crime caper, which has already begun screening in select cinemas ahead of its Netflix release this week.
Reflecting on his character, Daniel explained: 'The great thing about this whole movie is that the book is an amazing read.
'That in itself is an incredible gift to an actor. I felt real ownership of Chris Hudson before I even set foot in rehearsals.'
But Daniel's preparation for the character came with one unusual challenge.
'The key to the character was food, that was a big "in" for me,' he said.
The Thursday Murder Club star Daniel Mays (R) has revealed why he felt 'uncomfortable' while filming Netflix's hotly anticipated adaptation of Richard Osman 's bestselling novel
The A Thousand Blows actor takes on the role of DCI Chris Hudson in the star-studded crime caper, which has already begun screening in select cinemas
'So that was why we've chosen to come up with a padded fat suit, which is quite uncomfortable to wear. But it encapsulates what I wanted to create with the character.'
Daniel admitted that bringing Osman's beloved book to life comes with pressure. 'You want people to be happy with the adaptation,' he added.
'I want it to be funny and engaging and an edge of your seat thriller with tons of pathos in it as well. There are elements to the story that really pull on the heartstrings.'
First reactions from critics suggest the film has divided opinion.
Digital Spy praised it as 'largely an enjoyable and faithful adaptation' but noted that 'notable changes to the book could irritate fans.'
Despite the mixed reviews, hopes are already high for a follow-up. Director Chris Columbus has hinted that 'all signs seem to point' towards a sequel being given the greenlight.
It comes as Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan led the all-star cast of 'geriatric sleuths' at the film's premiere last Thursday ahead of the film's release.
The actress, 80, looked incredible as she stepped out in an eye-catching, navy, floral gown from alice + olivia, and posed with her fellow thespians while promoting the crime comedy film.
Daniel explained he had to wear a padded fat suit to properly embody the character, which he called 'quite uncomfortable' to wear
Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan led the all-star cast of 'geriatric sleuths' at Thursday Murder Club premiere ahead of the hugely anticipated release of Netflix adaptation
She layered an elegant, cropped, white dress jacket over her layered gown as she walked the red carpet for her upcoming release in which she stars as Elizabeth Best.
Meanwhile, Pierce Brosnan, 72, who plays Ron in the upcoming flick, looked handsome as ever as he arrived at the star-studded event in a brown double-breasted suit.
He layered his tailored two-piece with a crisp, matching shirt and a matching tie and a pair of sophisticated leather dress shoes.
Celia Imrie, 73, who plays Joyce, put on an eye-catching display as she stepped out in a bright pink, square-neck gown.
Fellow cast member Sir Ben Kingsley, 81, who plays Ibraham, looked sophisticated as he stepped out in a navy, two-piece suit.
The Thursday Murder Club centers on a witty group of retirees who spend their days in a peaceful retirement community - bonding over their shared hobby of solving cold cases.
But their quiet pastime takes a thrilling turn when they stumble upon a fresh murder mystery that demands their attention.
Helen leads the cast as Elizabeth, a sharp ex-spy with a knack for uncovering secrets.
Pierce plays Ron, a former union activist with a passionate spirit, while Ben Kingsley portrays Ibrahim, an insightful ex-psychiatrist.
Celia Imrie rounds out the group as Joyce, a compassionate ex-nurse who balances the team.
The Thursday Murder Club is out in cinemas now, and will release on Netflix on August 28
