Damián Alcázar – The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

Actor Damián Alcázar never had to use his imagination as much in his 23-year film and TV career as he did in the new fantasy, “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.” The movie is the sequel to 2005’s “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

Alcázar, the founding member of the Veracruzano Theatre Forum at Veracruzana University and the Center for Experimental Theatre, has starred in a number of Spanish-language films including “Dos Crímenes,” “Un Mundo Maravilloso,” and “El Crimen del Padre Amaro.”

In “Prince Caspian” – which once again follows the adventures of the Pevensie children – the world of Narnia is threatened by the evil King Miraz (Italian actor Sergio Castellitto). Alcázar, who is originally from Jiquilpan, Michoacán, México, plays Lord Sopespian, a high-ranking soldier in Miraz’s army.

During a phone interview with me, Alcázar, 55, talked about his new role in the fantasy genre.

Tell me about your character Lord Sopespian.

He is a lord in the kingdom of Narnia. He is a cavalier. He is a good guy at the beginning but then, little by little, he changes because the power changes him. He falls to the dark side of the human beings.

Were you familiar with the series of books by C.S. Lewis before you auditioned for the role?

No, I just watched the first [film](“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”) When I knew that they were going to film “Prince Caspian,” then I read that book.

What did you think about the first film?

I really enjoyed the scenes with the faun and the little girl. I loved the performance of [actress] Georgie Henley.

Was the role of Lord Sopespian specifically written for a Latino actor?

No, anybody could play him. I think the director [Andrew Adamson] wanted to have a mixed cast from all areas. I think in his adaptation for the movie, he tried to play with the human’s accents and their features.

What are the biggest differences working in Mexican films and American films?

It’s different because of the budget. The budget, of course, is bigger [in the United States.] I’ve done movies in Argentina and Colombia, too.

What was the best part about making a fantasy movie like “Prince Caspian”?

It was very interesting and strange for me to work with things that are imaginary. I really liked the fauns and the centaurs and the little mice. There were scenes where I only could work with my imagination and the imagination of the director. It was very exciting for me.

What do you look for when you audition for a role?

I love to work with very good stories. It doesn’t matter if it’s in America or Spain or México. I just want a good story.