The sweltering heat on the Red Carpet Premiere of “The Thicket” couldn’t deter Juliette Lewis from diving deep into the complex character of Cut Throat Bill. In a recent interview with journalist Nick Williams, Lewis opened up about the challenges and rewards of portraying such a “wonderfully unhinged” individual.

“The Thicket” Only In Theaters September 6, 2024

When fierce bounty hunter Reginald Jones (Peter Dinklage) is recruited by a desperate man, he immediately assembles a band of unlikely heroes to track down the ruthless killer known only as Cutthroat Bill (Juliette Lewis). A grave-digging ex-slave and a street-smart woman-for-hire readily join his cause. Together, they embark on a perilous quest to hunt Cutthroat Bill, a journey that ultimately leads them into the deadly “no-man’s-land” known as…The Thicket.

In essence, THE THICKET is a film about vengeance, justice, and unlikely companionship. The film also stars Esmé Creed-Miles, Levon Hawke, Macon Blair, Andrew Schulz, James Hetfield, David Midthunder, with Arliss Howard, with Leslie Grace, and Gbenga Akinnagbe.

Juliette Lewis on her character ‘Cut Throat Bill’

When asked about her approach to the role, Lewis candidly shared, “I brought my pain.” She wanted to embody a character consumed by “calloused pain,” someone teetering on the edge. This emotional intensity is palpable in Bill’s unraveling throughout the film. Lewis admitted, “It was a tough road,” and her commitment to authenticity meant sacrificing her smile during production.

Despite the internal turmoil required for the role, Lewis found support in the rich source material. “The writing was so good,” she remarked, praising the well-developed characters adapted from Joe R. Lansdale’s novel, “The Thicket.” The external elements, like the wardrobe and scarring, further enhanced her performance, but Lewis emphasized the importance of inner truth. “It has to come from inside,” she explained, drawing on her own personal experiences to fuel the character’s raw emotions.

The strength required to inhabit such a demanding role

Lewis’s dedication to her craft shines through in her portrayal of Cut Throat Bill. She delivers a captivating performance that is both unsettling and profoundly moving. By tapping into her own pain and vulnerability, Lewis brings a depth and realism to the character that resonates long after the credits roll.

As the interview concluded, Lewis flashed a smile that was noticeably absent during filming. It served as a reminder of the resilience and strength required to inhabit such a demanding role. In “The Thicket,” Juliette Lewis once again proves her ability to transform into complex and unforgettable characters, leaving an indelible mark on the audience.