Ellie Duckles – Dagr

By starrymag | February 28, 2024

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) Please tell us the premise for the film Dagr.

 

A) Two young women seeking internet stardom pose as catering staff on a high-end fashion commercial. Unbeknownst to the ad team the women’s plan is to film themselves stealing all the expensive merchandise, giving it away to people who need it, and post it on their Youtube channel. However, when they arrive at the location there’s no-one there. Seeing this as the perfect opportunity to set up hidden cameras and get started on the theft, they discover an iPad which holds footage of the commercial shot so far. But what looks to be a glossy homage to Jean-Luc Goddard, soon turns into a Blair Witch paranormal nightmare.

 

Q) Social media is very topical, which I think makes this film so intriguing. What was it about the film or the character that drew you to be a part of the movie?

 

A) The relationship and dynamic between Thea and Louise are what drew me to the movie. The playfulness of their friendship is so relatable to friendships I have and I knew it would be a lot of fun forming that bond between the characters. The social media aspect was a little bit of a learning curve for me. I have Instagram but I’m not a total natural when it comes to creating videos or posting so that was fun to get inside the mind of a content creator.

 

Q) How was the role of Thea originally described to you?

 

A) Basically, Matthew sent me the script and said I think you’d be great in this part! He also told me that he wanted Riz to play Louise and that pretty much was all the info I needed!

 

Q) You worked closely with Riz Moritz. Did you spend much time before filming to become on-screen besties?

 

A) We knew each other before this film as we met on another job the year before that so it was lovely to get the opportunity to work together again.

 

Q) Talk about working with director Matt Butler-Hart.

 

A) He’s fantastic to work with. Matt is so experienced and a genuinely lovely human being. The whole team was incredible, everyone works so hard and is so wonderful, kind and funny. I honestly couldn’t sing their praises high enough to be honest with you.

 

Q) The mask you have on in the movie was pretty creepy. What was it like for you to wear it?

 

A) Yeah, that mask was stinky [laughs], but it definitely helps get you in the creepy mood!

 

Q) There are so many intense scenes to this film. What were some scenes that challenged you the most or that you’re most proud of?

 

A) The scene at the end of the film where I’m tied up to the tree was the most challenging. It was like 1am, shooting in the middle of the forest and it was bloody cold! But when you are in these situations you have to channel that energy and use it!! I also had a lot of hot water bottles on me at all times. <3

 

Q) With adrenaline certainly at a high while shooting, how did you shake off a long day of being on set?

 

A) Luckily, because we all got on so well, we’d often just sit with each other, have a cup of tea and some snacks and debrief. However, on our last day of shooting we used the hot tub that was at the house we stayed in – that was the best way to shake off the day! [laughs]

 

Q) What do you think it is about Dagrthat is sure to make it a standout horror-comedy?

 

A) I think Dagr is a lot of fun. I’ve had friends see it who don’t like horror and they’ve loved it. It’s super playful but also takes some dark turns and will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. Found footage is rarely accomplished in the way that Matt and Tori [Butler-Hart] have done it.

 

Q) Have you been busy working on other projects lately?

 

A) Last year was really busy so I’ve just returned from travelling Southeast Asia, which was amazing. Lovely to get out of London for a bit!

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the work you do on our screens?

 

A) Awww just a big, big thank you!! I massively appreciate your support and love! It’s so wonderful and kind and I’m sending love right back!