Bill Skarsgård is much more than just a handsome face. He is recognized as one of the most intriguing and captivating performers of his generation, a modern scream king known for his portrayal of intriguing and elusive characters in intense and often dark films. This year, Skarsgård is set to shine in three high-profile releases — Boy Kills World in April, The Crow in August, and Robert Eggers’ highly anticipated horror film Nosferatu in December.
If you can’t wait and want to see more of the talented actor’s work, I recommend checking out the 2022 miniseries Clark, one of Netflix’s finest, showcasing Skarsgård’s best and most charming performance to date. However, if you’re more into movies, be sure to explore these five films where Skarsgård demonstrates his mesmerizing talent and versatility.
5. It (2017)
Most people associate the name “Bill Skarsgård” with Andy Muschietti’s It duology. Skarsgård portrays the iconic cinematic villain Pennywise, the Dancing Clown, in Muschietti’s horror films about a shape-shifting evil creature haunting the children of the forgotten town of Derry in Maine.
Beneath layers of makeup, with menacing teeth and a unique head shape, Skarsgård is completely transformed into the sinister clown. While the role was originally popularized by Tim Curry, Skarsgård brings his own twist to it, delivering arguably the definitive version of Pennywise, a captivating and intense character in Stephen King’s repertoire. The first It movie is outstanding, showcasing Skarsgård at his most menacing and mesmerizing, providing plenty of thrills for horror fans.
It is available to rent or purchase on Amazon and other digital platforms.
4. Nine Days (2020)
Edson Oda’s 2022 fantasy drama Nine Days is a hidden gem that is both profound and devastating. Winston Duke stars as Will, a reclusive man residing in a preexistence house, tasked with interviewing souls aspiring to be born on Earth and overseeing their progress upon arrival. When one of his previous selections passes away, Will faces a crisis of faith as a new group of candidates, including Skarsgård’s Kane, arrives.
Few films are as emotionally impactful, haunting, or strangely life-affirming as Nine Days. The movie delves into deep questions about the essence and meaning of human life and the apparent futility of it all. The entire cast, especially Duke and Zazie Beetz, delivers exceptional performances, with Skarsgård embodying a cynical and introspective portrayal as Kane. Nine Days may not be an easy watch, delving into philosophical territories and culminating in a gut-wrenching finale. However, its profound themes and stellar cast make it a film worth experiencing.
Nine Days is available to rent or purchase on Amazon and other digital platforms.
3. Barbarian (2022)
Zach Cregger’s Barbarian boasts one of the most effective marketing campaigns in recent horror films. Georgina Campbell stars as Tess, who finds her Airbnb double-booked with a stranger, Keith (Skarsgård). As Tess reluctantly agrees to share the accommodations, she begins to suspect sinister motives.
Barbarian cleverly plays with the audience’s perceptions of Keith, and Skarsgård delivers a subtly unsettling performance that keeps viewers on edge. Ultimately, it’s a brilliant misdirection, allowing Skarsgård to portray one of his most endearing characters yet. In a surprising turn of events, Skarsgård showcases his rom-com leading man qualities in Barbarian. A standout in the Airbnb horror subgenre, Barbarian is a shocking and unforgettable nightmare that surprises viewers.
Barbarian is available to rent or purchase on Apple and other digital platforms.
John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
Transitioning from one of Skarsgård’s most endearing performances to one of his most unsettling, John Wick: Chapter 4 delivers intense action with Keanu Reeves. Skarsgård portrays the Marquis Vincent de Gramont, a key figure on The High Table tasked with eliminating John Wick.
Similar to its predecessors, John Wick: Chapter 4 offers a visual treat of action-packed sequences and stylish flair, featuring Skarsgård at his scene-stealing best. Embracing the role of a Bond-like villain, Skarsgård captivates with his charismatic portrayal, draped in exquisite suits and a perfectly over-the-top accent. A pinnacle of action cinema, John Wick: Chapter 4 is a visual extravaganza, a turbocharged action film, and a fitting conclusion to the iconic action franchise of the 2010s and 2020s.
John Wick: Chapter 4 is available to stream on Starz.
Villains (2019)
In the underrated horror comedy Villains, Skarsgård showcases his comedic side alongside Maika Monroe. The film follows inept thieves and lovers Mickey and Jules, played by Skarsgård and Monroe, who seek shelter in a menacing manor after a failed robbery.
Blending romance with horror comedy, Villains is a delightful blend elevated by the charming chemistry between Skarsgård and Monroe. Skarsgård embraces a more laid-back approach, showcasing his comedic prowess and proving he’s not just a scream king, but a versatile leading man. Despite its compact scale, Villains is a fast-paced and twisted thriller, standing out as one of the highlights in Skarsgård’s diverse filmography.
Villains is available to stream on Tubi.
Editors’ Recommendations
