Terence Stamp, known – among other things – for his portrayal of Bernadette in the cult classic The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, spent the final months of his life filming all his scenes for the movie’s long-anticipated sequel. The news was revealed by the film’s screenwriter and director, Stephan Elliott, who shared insights into the late actor’s dedication and poignant final professional endeavours. Stamp, who passed away in August at the age of 87, had initially been reluctant to reprise his iconic role but was won over upon reading a fresh screenplay, distinctly different in tone and narrative from the original.
Stamp’s awareness of his advancing age and frail health was ever-present during the filming process. Elliott spoke about how the actor frequently urged the cast and crew to maintain pace, aware of the limited time available. Remarkably, Stamp was adamant about pre-shooting his scenes fully done up in costume and makeup, rejecting the idea of a digital recreation that many in Hollywood have turned to in recent years to represent deceased or unavailable actors. As Stamp himself said, the motivation was ‘just in case I don’t make the start line.’ This proactive approach allowed his performance to be captured in full, which will later be digitally integrated onto a stand-in performer, similar to how Carrie Fisher was posthumously included in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. However, unlike Fisher, Stamp’s scenes were filmed while he was still alive, marking an unusual and thoughtful approach to preserving his presence on screen.
The sequel, which Elliott describes as a ‘very unusual film’ centred on themes of old age and identity within queer communities, aims to explore largely uncharted narratives relating to ageing, sexuality, and gender identity. Elliot’s script weaves in intimate portrayals of experiences faced by gay and trans people in later life, reflecting his personal reflections and the years spent working alongside Stamp. The story will extend beyond the Australian setting of the original, though further plot details remain under wraps. Other key cast members from the original, including Guy Pearce and Hugo Weaving, have indicated their interest in returning, suggesting that the primary impediment to the project moving forward is securing the necessary financial backing.
Stamp’s enduring commitment to the role and the project is underscored by Elliott’s moving tribute, highlighting how Stamp viewed this work as a ‘final curtain’ rather than a farewell. Elliott emphasises the emotional weight of completing Stamp’s sequences, describing the actor as an old trouper who gave his all despite the physical challenges. The director confessed to being deeply affected by Stamp’s passing and is currently in a period of mourning, uncertain how the film will be received in the absence of its cherished star.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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