14 DAY TRIAL // WikiLeaks revealed the letter Julian Assange sent actor Benedict Cumberbatch and now that everything’s out there, the actor won’t stay quiet.
In an “Ask Me Anything” session on Reddit, the actor opens up about the effect the letter in which he was called “a hired gun” had on him and his portrayal in “The Fifth Estate.”
“To have the man you are about to portray ask you intelligently and politely not to do it gave me real cause for concern, however, it galvanized me into addressing why I was doing the movie,” Cumberbatch said.
“He accused me of being “a hired gun” as if I am an easily bought cypher for right wing propaganda. Not only do I not operate in a moral vacuum but this was not a pay day for me at all. I’ve worked far less hard for more financial reward,” he actor admits.
Furthermore, the actor believes the film clearly illuminates the great successes of WikiLeaks and its founder, Julian Assange, despite the attacks the organization engaged on when it comes to “The Fifth Estate.”
“I wanted to create a three dimensional portrait of a man far more maligned in the tabloid press than he is in our film to remind people that he is not just the weird, white haired Australian dude wanted in Sweden, hiding in an embassy behind Harrods. But a true force to be reckoned with, achieved the realization of the great ideal. I’m proud to be involved in tackling such a contentious character and script,” Cumberbatch said.
Assange sent out a letter to the actor before the movie began filming earlier this year. He expressed that he was sure the film would depict him and his work in a negative light and that it will distort events.