House of the Dragon: Larys Strong, the shadow hero
Larys Strong is a complex and fascinating character from the universe imagined by George RR Martin. We met him in the first season of House of the Dragonand is back in the second season, which has just begun broadcasting on Max. Although less well-known than some of the main protagonists, Larys Strong occupies a significant place in the plotespecially for those interested in political maneuvers and court intrigues.
Larys Strong is often described as a secretive and somewhat enigmatic man. Unlike many characters in the Westeros universe, who are defined by their courage or fighting prowess, Larys is known for his finesse and strategic intelligence. He is seen as a master of shadow, preferring discreet maneuvers and plots to direct actions. He is often compared to characters like Littlefinger or Varys from game of Thrones.
In House of the Dragonhe is played by the actor Matthew Needham, to whom we were able to ask some questions, to better understand the psychological profile of this character, during the airing of the second season.
Who really is Larys Strong? Matthew Needham gives us the keys
Larys is a complex character with many facets. What motivates him deeply?
I think what motivates him is that he was born with a very severe disability in this medieval world. And unfortunately you didn’t get a chance to see it in the first season. But he has been mocked and laughed at all his life. And I think he’s internalized that hatred and is trying to spread it out into the world. Furthermore he has been underestimated and felt useless his whole life. I think he wants to prove to himself that he is capable of great things, that he is capable of impacting the world and changing it in one way or another.
How does your physical disability affect your interactions with others?
He uses his physical disability as an opportunity to hide in plain sight. He makes himself much smaller to appear less threatening. People don’t pay attention to those in difficulty. When someone is struggling physically, people often ignore them because they don’t want to help them. It’s almost like a smokescreen. People think that he is not a threat, that he is harmless, very discreet and always under the gaze of others so that they do not take him seriously. But they should take him seriously because he is very manipulative…
What do you think Larys’ ultimate goals are? Is he motivated by loyalty, power, or something else?
I don’t think he’s loyal or seeking power. He just wants to leave a mark. He wants to prove that he can influence the world, for himself.
He doesn’t have a dragon. He is not a fighter. He was the second child, so he would not inherit anything. If he wants to have a place in the world, he has to do what he does. I admire him in the sense that he is a self-made man, in a way. Everything he accomplished, he accomplished through his actions, and he wouldn’t have done it any other way.
How does he perceive the people around him? Does he trust anyone or are they all pawns in his game?
I don’t think he trusts you. I think he feels completely alone in the world. At the beginning of the season, she’s just an isolated person, completely alone.
Larys has often been compared to Littlefinger and Varys from Game of Thrones. Were they an influence for you?
Their methods are similar. They use intrigue, mystery, spies and secrets to their advantage rather than swords and violence. But their personality types are very different, as are their end goals. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that it’s Larys, Varys, Larys with an L, L for Littlefinger.
How do you balance Larys’ ruthless side with moments of vulnerability or humanity?
I was really hoping to explore that this season. There were things in the first season that unfortunately weren’t shown, where there was a sense that this is a man who struggles and who fails sometimes, and who has to work harder. I wanted to explore his vulnerability this season, because he is a man who has benefited from peace. But now that war breaks out, plans change and he must adapt and improvise. So vulnerability in that sense and also having more awareness of what’s in his head, I think.
I read an interesting theory that Larys could see the past, present, and future. What do you think ?
I think it’s a brilliant theory. I can neither confirm nor deny, sorry (laughs).
Are there any particular scenes or moments in Season 2 that you’re excited for fans to see?
There are so many. There are shows I’ve seen that I can’t wait for people to see. Tom Glinkani (Aegon II) throughout the series, and in some scenes in particular where I was speechless at what he was doing. Fabian Frankel (Sir Criston Cole) is also brilliant. There are so many things I can’t wait for people to see.
How would you describe Larys’ relationship with Alicent and the other members of the court?
Manipulative. It’s very, very, very toxic. He exploits his vulnerabilities and uses it.
How do you personally connect with the character of Larys? Are there aspects of his psychology that you find particularly fascinating or difficult to interpret?
I see myself a lot in Larys. I’m pretty introverted too. I feel exhausted around people and I don’t particularly like talking much. So I find myself in her discretion and in her reserved side.
How did you react to the audience’s reception of your character and were you surprised by the fans’ reactions?
I was surprised that people liked it so much. A lot of people come up to me and say I’m their favorite character, but they hate me. It’s quite surprising but pleasant! The great thing about Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon is that fans love complicated characters like Larys.
Are there aspects of Larys that you would like to explore more in the future?
I would like to see more of what he had to endure from society, from the world. I would love to see more about what he had to endure growing up and potentially why he is the way he is.
Source: Cine Serie
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