When you think of Bill Skarsgård, one image likely comes to mind—that chilling, sinister smile of Pennywise from It. But this shape-shifting tormentor is only one facet of what Bill Skarsgård brings to the screen. A member of the illustrious Skarsgård acting dynasty (which boasts talents like his father Stellan [Good Will Hunting] and brother Alexander [Big Little Lies]), Bill is carving out his own path.
While Pennywise might have been the role that thrust him into global stardom, Skarsgård’s repertoire extends far beyond red balloons and sewer grates. His career is a showcase of daring choices and genre-defying roles, proving he’s not content with just basking in the glow of one breakout success. Here are three films that showcase Skarsgård’s versatility and range as an actor:
Boy Kills World
What happens when a dystopian fever dream collides with the adrenaline of a martial arts spectacle? You get Boy Kills World. This action-packed thriller envisions a dystopian future where society is corrupt, merciless, and marked by rampant violence. Skarsgård stars as Boy, the deaf and mute protagonist-slash-killing-machine. Trained in the art of combat, he’s on a mission fueled by vengeance and justice.
With no words to express emotions, Skarsgård relies solely on his piercing gaze, brooding intensity, and razor-sharp physicality. Watching him embody the visceral rage of someone wronged by the world promises to be an electrifying experience.
John Wick 4
The John Wick franchise has redefined action cinema over the past decade. Synonymous with intricate fight choreography and captivating underworld politics, it’s a playground for iconic actors to leave unforgettable impressions. Enter Skarsgård as the lead villain in John Wick 4: Marquis Vincent de Gramont, an aristocrat and a commanding force in the shadowy High Table.
What makes Skarsgård’s portrayal truly electric is the intentionality in every detail, including his controversial accent. According to director Chad Stahelski, the decision to give the Marquis a distinct, slightly unconventional French-Cajun cadence was a deliberate choice. With Skarsgård’s striking physicality and his ability to channel sharp-edged elegance, the Marquis is sure to carve his place among the franchise’s most unforgettable antagonists.
The Crow
For those unfamiliar, The Crow follows the tragic tale of Eric Draven, a musician brought back from the dead to avenge the violent murders of himself and his fiancée. The role first gained cult status through Brandon Lee’s unforgettable portrayal in 1994, forever immortalized against a backdrop of gothic aesthetics and a tragic story both onscreen and off.
In the 2024 reboot, Skarsgård’s casting as Draven feels like a perfect match. His ability to balance sorrow, rage, and eerie mystique feels tailor-made for this beloved character. Starring opposite FKA twigs as Draven’s fiancée Shelly, Skarsgård brings a raw intensity to the role while also honoring the original portrayal.
Want to catch these films and more? Stream them today on Lionsgate Play.
