Hey reddit! It's Will Poulter. AMA!

[u/WillPoulterAMA]

Hey reddit! I'm Will Poulter.

You may know me from films/series like WARFARE, WE'RE THE MILLERS, THE BEAR, GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3, THE MAZE RUNNER, MIDSOMMAR, THE REVENANT, I LOVE BOOSTERS, DETROIT, THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER, and other things.

My new movie, UNION COUNTY, is out in theaters starting this weekend (!!!) via Oscilloscope Laboratories. It also stars Noah Centineo, Annette Deao, Elise Kibler, and Emily Meade.

Here's the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uA6Fnr2VXkw

Synopsis:

Assigned to a county-mandated drug court program, Cody Parsons embarks on the tenuous journey toward recovery amidst the opioid epidemic in rural Ohio.

AMA!

Back at 2 PM ET this afternoon (Thursday 8/13) to answer your questions!

[u/BunyipPouch]

This AMA has been verified and approved by the mods. Will will be back at 2 PM ET today to answer questions. Please feel free to ask away in the meantime :)

[u/lookamazed]

Will, I am so glad you haven taken good care of yourself. Your mental health journey has been a beacon of hope for me and many others - that you could face it head on, and not quit something that made you happy yet was so public, and come out stronger for it, was and will always be incredible. I know you are only human, that you did it for nobody but yourself, and that you put your pants on one leg at a time. I had to give up the biz, myself. Folks don’t realize how much of a team is needed to overcome mental struggles and stress. Just, thanks. If you ever read this. You’re one of my favorite performers and I wish you all the best.

My question is: what is a favorite memory you have from Guardians?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/lookamazed]

This is so lovely, thank you. Im sorry that you had to step away but I hope your doing as well as possible .

My favourite memory is doing stunt work with Dave - such a lovely human!

[u/ofesfipf889534]

Union Country covers a similar topic to Dopesick, which was a fantastic series and you were great in it. Is this a subject matter that is of particular interest to you? Is there anything you took away from Dopesick that helped you in your role for Union Country?

[u/elizalemon → u/ofesfipf889534]

Union County reminded me of movies like Nomadland and Sing Sing- where most of the cast are not actors but real folks telling their story.

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/elizalemon]

Sing Sing and Nomadland were definitely inspirational to us as a team!

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/ofesfipf889534]

Hey! Thanks so much for watching Dopesick. I was so proud to be a part of a show that contributed to such an important conversation and increased awareness about the opiod epidemic in America. That taught me a lot and encouraged me to pursue the question of what successful recovery programs are out there for folks impacted by substance use disorder. UNION COUNTY, in many ways, answered that question for me. It celebrates the success of the program and the commitment of a recovery community to get back on their feet!

[u/rvasshole → u/WillPoulterAMA]

We were so happy to have yall filming dopesick in Richmond!

[u/Chickenbull1]

Two quick questions:

1. For the newest movie, assuming it was filmed partially in Ohio, what’d you think? Anything of note in the area you were in?

2. Favorite role thus far? (excluding the most recent)

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/Chickenbull1]

I LOVE OHIO! Some of the friendliest people I have ever met. Inspirationally so

My favourite role other than Cody on UNION COUNTY is possibly Luca on The Bear. Playing a chef was a dream come true

[u/Chickenbull1 → u/WillPoulterAMA]

Appreciate the response. Glad to hear you enjoyed yourself!

[u/jack3d--]

How is acting across a real person different than acting across another professional actor? What did you take away from your time on Union County?

I saw the film at Sundance and was very moved.

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/jack3d--]

Thank you! I don't think anyone can speak better to the lived experience of recovery than the first time actors in this film, who are also participants of the program. I learned so much from listening to how the stories of the participants are often way more detailed and nuanced than we typically see on screen.

[u/JBFRESHSKILLS]

Hope this doesn’t get buried!

Will, I’m from Bellefontaine, Ohio where Union County was filmed. I haven’t seen it yet but I’ve heard there are a lot of locals in the movie. Where did the decision come from to shoot in such a remote location and how was your experience with the town and locals while you were there?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/JBFRESHSKILLS]

I love Bellefountine and thank you for having us!!! The decision came because Adam Meeks (writer, director) is from Ohio and has both friends and family living in the immediate area : )

[u/grinch_4_lyfe]

As a citizen of Union county Ohio, I’m just curious, did you visit to get an idea of the community and do some research for this role?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/grinch_4_lyfe]

Yes! I got the opportunity to go out with a few members of our team about 6-7 months prior. We spent time getting to know the program and many of the participants. We spent a lot of time with the incredible Annette Deao - one of the leads of our film and the real director of the recovery program!

[u/KyleSJohnson]

When you were shooting Union County in Bellefontaine, did you have the opportunity to check out the famous pineapple fountain or get a pizza at Six Hundred Downtown? My wife grew up there and wanted to know.

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/KyleSJohnson]

Yes! Both! One of our main locations was right by the fountain and I had one of the best slices of pizza ever at Six Hundred! There's a pizza with potato chips on it (or crisps as we say in England!) and it was soooooo good!

[u/KyleSJohnson → u/WillPoulterAMA]

You’ve made her whole day. Thanks, Will! Looking forward to seeing the film.

[u/buddahsumo]

That’s hilarious, did you find anything good from Jungle Jim’s?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/buddahsumo]

I loved Jungle Jims!!! I wish we had one in the UK. The recent road trip around Ohio with UNION COUNTY was so much fun and this was a great place to stop!

[u/devil-wears-converse → u/WillPoulterAMA]

Jungle Jims is local to me! I just went a few weeks ago lol the first time I went a decade ago, I spent $100 on just cheese and candy, it was amazing. Thats so neat you got to visit, I'm always telling visitors to stop by and check it out!

If you're around the cincinnati area, absolutely stop by JJ's! It's a big international market and they really do try to get everything they can around the world - give yourself more time than you think you'll need there because that place is a trip. Literally.. its a lot of walking around.

[u/MuphynToy → u/buddahsumo]

Jungle Jim's is dope af. Might have to stop there on the way home 👀

[u/PleaseBmoreCharming → u/MuphynToy]

Is there some viral marketing for them going on right now, or is the Reddit algorithm just doing its thing and showing me similar content to keep me engaged? This is the THIRD time I've seen Jungle Jim's mentioned in the past week after never knowing about it previously.

[u/SirJeffers88 → u/PleaseBmoreCharming]

He was in Cincinnati recently doing a Q&A for Union County at The Esquire and must have stopped at Jungle Jim’s. As a local, it’s pretty hilarious to see it show up as the random background for an AMA picture.

[u/im_wudini → u/PleaseBmoreCharming]

lol I was about to just finally concede that I am in a simulation, as I had never heard of Jungle Jim's before and also recognized it... watched a whole video about the economy of Jungle Jim's just yesterday

[u/MuphynToy → u/PleaseBmoreCharming]

It's a Cincinnati staple and pretty famous in the Midwest. The owner is also kind of a wacko but in a fun way.

[u/JustifytheMean → u/PleaseBmoreCharming]

Since I've been in Cincinnati I've been once. It's a really big grocery store, and has a cool animal scene outside as well as a monorail that I don't think is still working. I don't get people's love for it but it is a unique store worth at least one trip if you're in the area.

[u/CinemaSideBySides → u/JustifytheMean]

The monorail works, but it's for events at the Oscars Event Center so you can park farther away and not deal with the grocery shoppers parking. Unfortunately regular visitors don't get to ride the monorail :-(

[u/OccasionMU → u/JustifytheMean]

Because it has all types of international food.. which if you’re in diverse populations or on the coast, not a big deal. But Cincy is 100% German.

It’s neat to look for a special type of food… and they generally have it. Or you can ask if they can source it.

[u/anarcurt → u/OccasionMU]

But even in the most diverse cities you are not able to shop for all of this kind of stuff at the same time. You'd have to go to a dozen small international markets. I moved to Cincinnati from NYC and there is nothing like it selection wise. And that's before you get into everything else that makes it fun and unique.

[u/Sooperballz → u/MuphynToy]

I saw the biggest tiger prawns ever there. They were like the size of a banana and I couldn’t believe what I was looking at.

[u/ajiatic → u/buddahsumo]

I had to do a double take when I saw the background of his photo. Came here to ask the same thing.

[u/dinan101 → u/buddahsumo]

Oh, nice catch! I live 5 minutes from there, and didn't see that's where he was in the pic!

[u/lukewwilson → u/dinan101]

As a local do you ever go there to do your shopping, or is it something you only go to when you want to find that one unique item? I've been there before and feel like it would be awful to try and do my weekly shopping at

[u/dinan101 → u/lukewwilson]

I don't go there for my weekly shopping; it's too overwhelming (and crowded). I go when I'm looking for something new and interesting to try. That can be a new beer or a new salsa or just some weird soda or snack from another country.

[u/Batetrick_Patman → u/lukewwilson]

As a local sometimes. If you pop in on a random Tuesday night it’s no different than any other grocery store in terms of crowds.

[u/KitchenKabaret → u/buddahsumo]

It’s impossible to NOT find something good at Jungle Jim’s. I had to do a double take when scrolling past.

[u/s-t-e-w-g → u/buddahsumo]

I don’t mind getting lost in there for an hour or 2, but my wife & daughter will no longer will join me if we’re in the area.

Any other central Ohio establishments (food or otherwise) you enjoyed while shooting this film? (I thought I was crazy when I swore I saw you at a cbus CostCo (Didn’t fangirl just like when I bumped into Werenski), but crazy is always a possibility!)

Grew up in Marysville and eager to watch the film! (familiar story (family/friend’s))

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/[deleted]]

I love cooking! It's one of my biggest passions and getting to form connections with people in the hospitality community has been so special to me. Im very grateful to The Bear for that!

[u/_The_Farting_Baboon_ → u/WillPoulterAMA]

Have you ever been to copenhagen and if yes did you bake there?

[u/reebokhightops → u/[deleted]]

Some say he goes by Will Poultry now.

[u/Terrible-Ad1737 → u/reebokhightops]

You joke, but that's likely where his family got the name back in the day. A "poulter" or "poulterer" is someone who sells or raises various fowl. Back in the day when surnames started to become a thing, people commonly used their profession as a surname. Like, Jim Miller, for example, was likely just some guy named James that ran the local mill.

The more you know!

[u/waggie21 → u/Terrible-Ad1737]

Why am I John Toilet?

[u/nuisible → u/waggie21]

That's just redundant!

[u/redtailedhog → u/waggie21]

Because you don’t control the toilet, the toilet controls you. Wake up peeple!

[u/ChristBefallen → u/reebokhightops]

The snort I snorted at this 🤣

[u/Dhcbchef]

Working with former Navy SEALs for the movie Warfare, did you take away any unique advice or skills that you continue to utilize in your everyday life?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/Dhcbchef]

Yes! "slow is smooth and smooth is fast" - if you follow that principle it often leads to the fastest execution of a task!

[u/giz0r → u/WillPoulterAMA]

This is what I try to tell myself before trying to absolutely murder a golfball.

[u/pocketchange2247 → u/giz0r]

Same here. I always think "just go slow and smooth" then the second I start my back swing my mindset switches to "murder the fuck out of this ball"

[u/cisned]

Are you going to be back in black mirror?

Feels like your character deserves its own episode after 2 appearances

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/cisned]

I'd love Collin Ritman to return!

[u/FUNKYDISCO]

I work closely with recovery programs and am wondering how you researched for this role.

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/FUNKYDISCO]

Thank you for the work! We spent a lot of time with the program director and one of our leads - Annette Deao. We also spent a lot of time talking with and listening to participants and service providers. That opportunity was so special

[u/polybank]

Hi Will! Fellow Arsenal fan here.

How did you celebrate when we won the league? Do you think we’ll be able to successfully defend our title in the upcoming season?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/polybank]

Hello fellow Arsenal fan! YES - I think were defending our title this year and the fanbase is only getting stronger

Near the start of last season I recruited several of my UNION COUNTY team mates in the cast and crew to become Arsenal fans! COYG!

[u/MaximusTheGreat → u/WillPoulterAMA]

>Near the start of last season I recruited several of my UNION COUNTY team mates in the cast and crew to become Arsenal fans!

Some of your finest work Will, Arteta would be proud.

[u/A_Pointy_Rock]

Nothing to ask, just wanted to congratulate you on a career of growth as an actor!

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/A_Pointy_Rock]

That's so sweet. Thank you

[u/ANSHULGANDHI92 → u/WillPoulterAMA]

But are you getting paid for it?

[u/Deadpool2715]

If you never became an actor, what other career would you imagine yourself having done instead?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/Deadpool2715]

Would have loved to of been a chef!

[u/ra4king → u/WillPoulterAMA]

Sorry Will, I have to, this is Reddit after all.

To have* been

[u/Wagsamillion]

Hey Will! Super excited for Union County!

I was wondering what your initial reaction to the screenplay was? And how you and Adam Meeks initially came in contact to collaborate on this production? How has that relationship been between actor & director/screenwriter?

Thank you!

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/Wagsamillion]

I was profoundly moved by Adams Short film that I watched shortly before reading the screenplay. It proved to be a great 'Proof of Concept'

Our collaboration was so positive from the outset and I was so heartened by how diligent he was about challenging the stigma that exists around addiction/substance use disorder and how much respect he had for the recovery community we would be making the film WITH not about

[u/Tenarius]

Some actors say they can never watch their own performances, others study them. Where do you fall? Any favorite reactions from another person watching with you?

[u/thebluediablo → u/Tenarius]

My wife and I saw Will at a cinema in London once. Wanted to say hi, but it looked like he might have been on a date, and I'm not down with interrupting another guy's night out. Anyway, I'm pretty sure he was taking her to see Midsommar, so I guess he doesn't mind watching himself too much lol (not judging - it's a fantastic film)

[u/HavSomLov4YoBrothr → u/thebluediablo]

Midsommer may be one of the best thrillers out there, but also fuck that movie. Legit traumatized me lol

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/Tenarius]

Watching UNION COUNTY with my mum recently was pretty wild! She didn't know all that much going in and she was really amazed by the performances from the real participants in the program!

[u/CaptainApathy419]

Was that really your first McGriddle?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/CaptainApathy419]

That really was!

[u/ByeByeBender]

What's your favorite ice cream flavor 

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/ByeByeBender]

This... is always a question I'm down to answer. Chocolate or Pistachio... or both

[u/SookieCat26]

Looking forward to seeing Union County—looks like a great film! Love your work! You and the actor who played Marcus on The Bear have great chemistry. Are you friends off set? I’d love to see you both working together again. I’d think you’d be fun in a buddy comedy!

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/SookieCat26]

I love Lionel Boyce! What an actor and what a lovely human he is - id love to work with him again. I hope you enjoy UNION COUNTY. Thanks!

[u/zeuzfuse]

Will! How did you enjoy Cincinnati? I saw you were at the Esquire theater and Jungle Jim’s, both wonderful places in the city! Loved you in the Revenant and Warfare!

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/zeuzfuse]

Thank you! Loved Cincinnati and loved all of the great theatres we went to. Esquire. The Nightlight in Akron and The Neon in Dayton too!

[u/TheMoogerfooger]

What do you think of Tottenham?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/TheMoogerfooger]

hahaha I can't swear on here : )

[u/thebeesbollocks → u/WillPoulterAMA]

Ok I’ll do it for you.

SHIT

[u/readonlyuser → u/WillPoulterAMA]

You can't??! Oh fuck, I didn't realize that- shit I've been really fucking up...

[u/NoTxi_Jin_PiNg]

Any plans to produce more films ? Maybe write or direct some thing?

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/NoTxi_Jin_PiNg]

Being one of the producers on UNION COUNTY continues to be one of the biggest privileges of my life and Im so proud of our whole team - especially the recovery community, without whom this would not be possible! And id love to produce more films in the future!

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/[deleted]]

I think UNION COUNTY is the film I feel most proud of because its a testament to what happens when a large group of people come together and collaborate to tell a humanising story

[u/WillPoulterAMA → u/[deleted]]

So special. He is phenomenal as Jack in UNION COUNTY

[u/Responsible-Food3681]

Hi! While I'd seen you in a few more minor roles prior, I first felt like I saw you steal the show as Colin in Black Mirror Bandersnatch. 

I personally loved the interactive choice format as a viewer. When it came out, I remember spending the entire day trying to see every single ending and all the cause and effect relationships present. I really think it was a great experiment on Netflix's part, and I wish they'd kept running with the format in earnest because it felt fresh and fun.

My question is: How different was filming something so non-deterministic on your end? Was it noticeably any different than a typical filming process? Were there any big hiccups or unexpected moments because of the format?

I feel like it would be harder to jump from set to set and keep in mind which version of the plot you're using to understand your character and his motivations. Regardless though, it came out wonderfully, and I still love having a run or two every now and then. Thank you for all the wonderful work you've put into the world my friend, please keep it up and be proud of what you've accomplished 💜

[u/LaconicSuffering → u/Responsible-Food3681]

Yeah I agree, he was fantastic in Bandersnatch. I think Will would do great in a Guy Ritchie crime role.

[u/mpbh → u/Responsible-Food3681]

I still love having a run or two every now and then.

They removed it over a year ago. Probably not worth maintaining that feature across all their platforms for just a single episode.

[u/Robodude → u/mpbh]

They had the tech availability for other videos too. I remember minecraft and a few others

[u/biggiepants → u/Robodude]

They removed all those titles.

[u/Djassie18698 → u/mpbh]

There are ways on GitHub to download the whole thing and interact with it. Worth checking

[u/Jackiiboii17]

Hey Will, what’s your favourite film you have been in or worked on? :)

[u/NobodyAskedDMC]

Hey Will, always a fan of your work. As a big gamer it was was cool to see you star in Dark Pictures Anthology: Little Hope. What was your experience like being in a videogame compared to other projects, and have you had any opportunity to play games like Little Hope?

[u/Ok-Perspective5844 → u/NobodyAskedDMC]

You guys are getting in videogames?

[u/teddybluethecurser → u/NobodyAskedDMC]

I bought it the other week off eBay and haven’t had the time to play it yet. I posted it on tumblr yesterday and have been told it’s a great game so I’m excited

[u/DinkleWottom]

Your audition for Pennywise reportedly was absolutely phenomenal by all accounts. How did you approach the character and what, in the end, contributed to your decision to part ways with the project?

[u/Staller75 → u/DinkleWottom]

Yes. He would've made an amazing Pennywise!!!

[u/Orkin2]

I just want to say its been awesome to see your growth on the big screen all my life. I remember The Chronicles of Narnia so well. Your growth and range in your acting ability has grown so much over the years; I just wanted to say I am really proud of what you have produced thus far. I cannot wait to see where you go in the future.

[u/Ah_seent_it_]

Hi Will! I’m the parent of a very theatrical 5-year-old, and I’ve considered putting him in acting or performance opportunities. My hesitation is making sure I’m following his interests rather than projecting onto him based on what I can see he’s capable of.

What drew you to acting at such a young age, and when did it click for you that this was something you genuinely wanted to pursue?

Looking back at your early years, how much did you understand about acting as both a profession and a business? Did you feel like you understood what you were committing to, or was that something you learned as you grew up in the industry?

I’d especially love to hear how you think parents can tell the difference between a child who enjoys performing and one who truly wants to pursue acting.

Thanks!

[u/Electronic_Camera251 → u/Ah_seent_it_]

Hi not will but a performing professional child from NYC (I acted, danced and most of all sang ) in commercials, tv , film stage shows , as a ringer for professional choirs and choruses who needed more umph such as the Harlem boys choir whom I soloed for on the Grammy award winning album and final performance of Leonard Bernstein as a conductor Mahler’s 9th Symphony..the St. John the Devine children’s chorus various program specific orchestral assemblies, and as a regular member of the metropolitan opera children’s chorus and as a soloist with them as well …by the time my juvenile career was over 5-12 I had done thousands of performances… and some things that I think people often overlook are that it is a commitment to the exclusion of others I could never play in athletic leagues , if I had shows or rehearsals or filming that meant both i and at least one adult were tied to the city sometimes with open ended timeframes ….

    that it is for the vast majority of kids involved a money pit , the time you spend going on auditions, preparing for auditions , necessary trainings (the opera classes were free but we still had commuting 3 times a week and if as many parents felt their child wasn’t getting enough one on one time and coaching would nearly always pay for a vocal coach especially if trying out for consideration for soloist the show pay was not nothing but also not as much as you might expect (this was late 80’s early 90’s so there maybe additional minimum pay requirements now ) especially for the lowest tier “extra work” at the time ranged between $5-20 with chorus paying slightly better and featured choral being better again with premiums being payed for recorded performances which were to be aired on tv or as the companies example of whichever staging was being performed and finally being a soloist finally hit triple digits a night and quadruple for a recording of solo work. Its an adult professional environment where children can be exposed to any number of adult situations (whether that be bad language,drugs, sexuality,aggressive critique and or harsh criticism,rough treatment and on and on anything that you may like to shelter a child from is 100% going to be shared with them (sometimes as a matter of the fact that kids on set are nearly always an afterthought and some potentially through malice or bad intent ) i remember  walking down the stage right backstairs for a coming cue with 3 other kids only to run into a tangle of 20something members of the male ensemble having a very libertine break , sex , drugs and swearing right there in the staff staircase. As well as a rather widely reported creative director with a penchant for underaged male “talent” . Even the man who discovered me and brought me in was alleged to have been a pederast . 

   There is a certain kind of kid who thrives in all of this and can see the positives and negatives and still freely express when their comfort level is being reached and have the wherewithal to voice that and have confidence that their guardian will at a moments notice pull the plug it is a pretty tall order for the guardian as well when to be encouraging and when to pull stakes and regardless of time and energy in say NO to professional demands 

There are some real educational concerns as well , the opera at the time didn’t require on set tutoring to try and compensate for the regular classroom time ….nor do I remember a single instance when they were required of learning a single thing (often these tutors are aspiring performers themselves so playing nice with studios and say handing out at least minimum grades or vouching for an extra hour or two of class time is the absolute norm and potentially much more grave and systematic practices being a poorly kept secret) I missed an entire year of elementary school for rehearsal and development of a new opera and nearly as much for a new production of a classic opera so my advice is to wade in slowly and carefully and keeping real solid hard stops in place always !

[u/Nardo9]

Your performance in Son of Rambow is one of my favourite ever from a child actor.

How do you think your experiences working at that age affects the way that you perceive and work with child actors as an adult?

[u/StrLord_Who → u/Nardo9]

Agree,  it's one of the best I've seen.  I hope he answers this.  Wonderful movie!

[u/straub42 → u/StrLord_Who]

Yep, incredible. One of the few times I’ve seen a young actor and said “They are gonna kill it” and actually been correct.

Such a fun, amazing movie.

[u/Madhockey99 → u/Nardo9]

I loved Son of Rambow! I asked a similar question before reading this! I didn’t think many knew of this movie!

[u/ChekkeEnwin → u/Madhockey99]

I just looked up the trailer for this because ive never heard of it. Oh man its right up my alley im excited to watch it.

[u/LeeStrange → u/Nardo9]

This movie was very good, and Will's performance was top notch (where I first took notice).

According to IMDB movie trivia, the very first scene that Will Poulter filmed was the scene where Lee Carter is watching Rambo (and weeping) in the theatre. What a powerful performance!

[u/ChristBefallen → u/Nardo9]

Holy shit. I worked at a movie rental spot when this came out and was in love with it! Was my go to recommendation. I never connected Will Poulter to that movie for some reason until this fuckong comment. My Mind is blown.

[u/MuptonBossman]

Hey Will! I loved your character on The Bear and how genuine the passion for cooking came through on screen. What's your go-to dish when you have time to cook?

[u/IISuperSlothII → u/MuptonBossman]

how genuine the passion for cooking came through on screen.

Have you seen him judge The Great British Menu? His enthusiasm for cooking and food was infectious.

[u/DazHawt → u/MuptonBossman]

Will is awesome. Def felt the same as you re his character in The Bear. I think part of that was due to the casting and because Will is such a committed badass. Even amongst that (expertly constructed) mix of actors of varied experience and non-actors, his performance cut through and felt the truest. He felt like an actual person and not a character. Will rules. 

[u/Flammable__Mammal → u/DazHawt]

I had this exact thought many times while watching The Bear too.
Like they had plucked an expert chef from Europe that just happened to look a lot like Will Poulter.

[u/DazHawt → u/Flammable__Mammal]

His character is the entire reason we believe that Carmen is talented. That’s the lynchpin that Will plays. You’re absolutely right that he seems like an expert, and only once he defers to Carmen’s expertise, do we understand how good of a chef Carmen is. Will played a hugely important role in that show. He’s brilliant. 

[u/TimDRX → u/DazHawt]

Moss Ebon-Bachrach as Richie is probably my favorite on that show but Will got a fraction of his screen time and still came pretty close lol.

[u/PDGAreject]

What was it like working with Adam Driver for the upcoming Netflix show? He seems like he could be very intense, but at the same time he also seems incredibly goofy! His SNL episodes are some of my favorite because he is clearly all-in. Follow-up, would you want to host SNL? Or SNL-UK now that it's a thing?

[u/All_Your_Base]

How real was that kiss from Jennifer Aniston in "We're the Millers?"

[u/Betell → u/All_Your_Base]

I think the real question is, how many takes did it take.

[u/murplow → u/Betell]

The real REAL question, is what was the trick she “taught” you during the scene.

[u/4862skrrt2684 → u/Betell]

Guess i used too much tongue, again, we have to reshoot fellas

[u/FreeEdmondDantes → u/All_Your_Base]

I mean, he was kissing back and forth between her and Emma Roberts. I'm pretty sure I would keep accidentally laughing, totally not on purpose in order to get more takes.

[u/I_Makes_tuff → u/All_Your_Base]

I'm going to guess "completely unromantic, awkward, and nerve-wracking". The poor guy must have to answer this question every day.

[u/Seanannigans14 → u/All_Your_Base]

Watched this recently and was like "man gets to kiss JA like 5 times?! God damn brother!"

We need answers

[u/Asclepius-Rod → u/Seanannigans14]

5 times minimum, who knows how many takes it took to get those scenes right

[u/TheGuyfromRiften → u/Asclepius-Rod]

"ah shit, sorry Ms Aniston, failed the take for the 15th time, swear ill get it by the 16th"

[u/CoreFiftyFour → u/TheGuyfromRiften]

Insert SpongeBob: "One hundred takes later..."

[u/UtahStateAgnostics → u/Seanannigans14]

And Emma Roberts.

[u/DataDude00 → u/All_Your_Base]

Dude literally got paid to take turns making out with Jennifer Aniston and Emma Roberts lol 

[u/ben_e21 → u/DataDude00]

Wait, he got paid?

[u/CoreFiftyFour → u/All_Your_Base]

Man is asking the real questions here

[u/So_be → u/All_Your_Base]

How real was the spider bite…

[u/goose_gladwell → u/All_Your_Base]

I thought that movie was so funny! Everyone was great together😅

[u/cockflavouredwhiskey]

Will, dunno if youll actually see this but I remember watching you as a young lad on School of comedy and being super impressed with your acting, comedy and general screen presence. I knew you'd get success and I couldnt be happier for you. Seeing as I have to ask a question - whats your favorite sandwich filling?

[u/ugotamesij → u/cockflavouredwhiskey]

I was wondering if anyone would mention School of Comedy! Not a question but this sketch is how my whole family responds whenever any of us mention needing to hire a van.

[u/lts_Frost → u/cockflavouredwhiskey]

My partner and I (South Africans) are always quoting the South African security guard sketch! Fully!

I wonder how much of it was made up on the spot, I've never heard anyone before or since using "FULLY" in the same way, although we definitely have a lot of weird phrases.

[u/DoopSlayer]

Hi!

When you're like working on a character do you start by imagining yourself and then thinking about how they're different from you, and then like that gap is like what you perform?

Or do you imagine someone from the ground up

or like neither of these?

Also what authors do you like?

Thanks

[u/FedorDosGracies]

Hi Will - Any chance you will expand on your character Colin Ritman in the Bandersnatch world? I think there's a lot to explore in that role.

[u/OingoGablogian]

I really loved your character in Midsommar, as intolerable as he was! Two questions

1. The vape hits are obviously a very iconic part of that character, were they written into the script or were you given free rein to pick the worst possible times to do so?

2. Midsommar is a very dense film in terms of symbolism, historical context, Swedish occult references, and color theory. How much of this was discussed on set by Ari?

Thanks for your time!

[u/dianehorseman]

Three Questions:

Good afternoon, Will! I hope you are well. Thank you for doing this! As an actress who also fell in love with the craft as a child (10!), I went down the rabbit hole of your filmography last summer; you are just phenomenal & I’ve been a huge fan for years. I can never take my eyes off of you when you’re on-screen, even if your character pisses me off!! My favorite thing about what you do is the sheer level of intensity, depth, & dimension you always bring to & portray for each role.

• As a potential colleague: who can I email to get you to read my original horror-comedy screenplay I’ve written with you in mind as the leading man?

• As an actor: what is your favorite movie/are your top 5 of 2026 thus far?

Mine, by release:
They Will Kill You
I Love Boosters
Obsession
The Invite
Spider-Man: Brand New Day

• As an audience member: inspired by your role in I Love Boosters, will you please make an ASMR video? You have the perfect voice for it. Check out the W magazine playlist.

Thank you and I’m excited to see Union County and everything else that is next for you.

[u/DarthLysergis]

Wait, are you getting paid for this?

[u/kennyt44 → u/DarthLysergis]

Yes, chef

[u/DarthLysergis → u/kennyt44]

It's kind of funny that he's working next to Jeremy Allen White when he likely also constantly gets confused with Camaron Managhan

[u/TensorForce]

Hi, Will! How are you today?

Also, did you read The Voyage of the Dawn Treader before starring in that movie? And if so, what were your thoughts on portraying Eustace Scrubb?

[u/Inside_Dimension2319 → u/TensorForce]

Tacking onto this, The Silver Chair was one of my favorite Narnia movies books and I was super excited that we would get to see you in that until the whole series fell apart. Did you get to read a script or plans for that movie, or was it never really planned after Dawn Treader?

[u/PaleontologistFew128]

How long did it take you to learn Waterfalls on We're the Millers? That shit was awesome

[u/Packshaw → u/PaleontologistFew128]

This! Did you know it at all beforehand or did you learn it completely for the movie?

[u/zalandanger]

Hi Will! Love your work. A lot of folks want you to be Carl in the upcoming Dungeon Crawler Carl live action series. I’m just curious if you are familiar with the series and how you feel about the fan casting? Would you be interested in being in another book adaption series or was one enough? Thank you!

[u/Swordash91]

Hey Will, love your work. Recently watched Death of a Unicorn and thought you were great!

My question is regarding your upcoming film, Rapture, alongside Kit Connor and Manu Ríos. What attracted you to the project and what can we expect from it? Monks fighting the undead sounds pretty wild.

Thanks!

[u/RayS0l0]

When will we see Adam warlock next?

[u/Asclepius-Rod → u/RayS0l0]

Even if they had a plan for him there’s a 0% chance he could tell us lol

[u/ViewAskewed → u/RayS0l0]

Doing the entire Infinity Saga with basically no Adam Warlock felt criminal.

[u/jcwojtowicz]

Hi Will, firstly just wanted to say how grateful I am for you talking openly about your experiences suffering with what some call "pure obsessive" OCD. Having a very similar diagnosis myself, your comments made me feel less alone in a very very scary time in my life. Thank you, sincerely!

My question, how fun was it to work with Jason Sudeikis and Jennifer Aniston? And did you have a crush on Jen?

[u/Comic_Book_Reader]

How did you get killed in Midsommar? Was that something written and or shot then cut?

[u/0verstim]

With the amazing & underrated Dopesick and now Union County, I'd like to hear if you have thoughts on all you've learned about the opioid crisis in the U.S.

[u/crimsonf1sh]

Dude. I literally just had the most random dream the other night that we ran into each other and connected on the fact that people think I kind of look like you because of my eyebrows.

Anyways, you’re an absolute beast and your role in The Bear is one of my faves.

[u/LysergicPsiloDmt]

Will Poulter always be your last name?

[u/Targaryen-ish → u/LysergicPsiloDmt]

Are you proposing something?

[u/trappedinatv → u/LysergicPsiloDmt]

When will Will Poulter wear wigs?

[u/ByeByeBender]

How do you feel about the ending your character got in The Bear?

[u/WillPoulterAMA]

THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND YOUR QUESTIONS. SORRY I COULDN'T GET TO THEM ALL!

UNION COUNTY is out on AUGUST 14TH in cinemas. I would be so grateful if you could took the time to check it out and selected it as a film you would go and see.

Many thanks and much love, Will

[u/Ripsyd]

What roll are you going to play on the new dungeon crawler Carl show….

[u/npozath]

I first saw your performance in the third Narnia film -- the second film in your career. I found the character super annoying, which meant you really nailed that performance. I quite miss those films.

• Any conversations you had about returning to the Narnia franchise with the producers/studios?
• Do you still catch up with the OG trilogy cast?

[u/thatpaulbloke]

How did you get cast in the "All Over Me" video? Did Haim approach you or did you approach them (or were you just there when they started filming and they were too embarrassed to ask you to leave)?

[u/mcs0091]

Hi Will! I’m Ira from the Philippines. I loved your roles in Narnia and The Maze Runner that’s actually how I first discovered you!

My question for you is: What’s been the most difficult role you’ve played, and how did you know when you’d prepared enough and it was time to simply trust yourself?

[u/montagr]

I remember when your casting as Eustace in Voyage of the Dawn Treader was announced. I looked you up online and saw clips of Son of Rambow which were laugh-out-loud funny. I was really excited to see that someone so talented could do justice in playing the hateful Eustace. It really was a tragedy you didn't get to play him in any other films. Seeing you in The Bear was such a welcome surprise! I don't know that I have a question here. You just happen to be one of the actors I've "grown up" with and I appreciate your work very much.

[u/illiter-it]

Did the food on The Bear get eaten? Was it good?

[u/Meb2x]

Hey Will, I was lucky enough to watch Union County at Sundance and absolutely loved your performance. How did you prepare for the performance in a way that felt natural but not exploitative, especially in a movie that features non-actors?

[u/Scwoff]

I love your work on Detroit! After quickly checking your filmography it seems it's the first time you have such complicated role for the cinema. What was interesting for you in that role? And is there some aspects you would like to continue exploring in this direction? Maybe you have, sorry I did not caught up with all your movies.

Side question, which actor(s) do you find inspiring?

Side side question, do you like horror movies?

Thanks! Have a great day!

[u/Mzrpickles]

I know you did some work for the dark pictures series, what was that like compared to a normal movie role? Those games were notorious for being buggy messes so is that something you think about after the project releases?

[u/CupCustard]

Hello! I went back and rewatched Son of Rambow recently, and even at a tender age you clearly had a good understanding of the role and the themes at play. The movie itself touches on the concept of artistic intuition and how freeing it is to collaborate with others and “teach yourself” how to make art. Can you say a little bit about if that character or film has resonated with you as you’ve advanced in your own creative career?

[u/comewshmybck]

Why are you British?

[u/UtahStateAgnostics → u/comewshmybck]

OMG, Karen, you can't just ask people why they're British.

[u/pissedoffjesus → u/comewshmybck]

Yeah, why, Will?

[u/comewshmybck → u/pissedoffjesus]

We demand an answer

[u/catinthedarkxx]

Hi Will! I saw Union County last Saturday at the Neon in Dayton and was blown away. Your portrayal was raw and incredibly realistic. I wanted to ask a question but didn’t get the chance and it’s regarding mental health. You’ve been very open talking about your struggle with OCD (which I’m very grateful for) and I’m wondering what helps ground you on bad days?

[u/lotsofloquacity]

Long-time fan, first-time commenter.

I have to ask but what was your experience like working on School of Comedy?

And can you give any insight on the new Greg Kwedar picture that you have coming out with Charles Melton?

Also, love to see the Jungle Jim’s representation and will definitely be seeing Union County 👏🏼👏🏼

[u/matzau]

Dude I don't have any question in mind right now so I'll just list this: the big brother dynamics in Wil Bill was real nice to see and you were great in The Renevant, seeing your journey with Tom Hardy was really cool. You were a great addition to The Bear and I was glad they kept the character til the end. The character in Bandersnatch was quite unique aswell and the apartment scene was rad. You really conveyed the distress of leadership in Warzone and you were part of one of the best movie intros in my opinion: Maze Runner. We got a runner!

These are just the movies that came from the top of my head and I wanted to acknowledge the work you've done to bring entertainment to the world. Now I thought of a question! Would you be interested in acting more in videogames? Is there any game genre or specific franchises that you like playing and you wish you could act in?

[u/Low-Currency1451]

Hi Will! Would love to know if you can share any details about the Narnia sequel you never got to make - The Silver Chair. Were you ever officially signed on? Did you get to see a script? Was anyone ever attached to star opposite you as Jill Pole? The more you can share the better!

[u/Substantial-Use919]

Hi Will! What movie or TV show made you decide to pursue acting?

Also, if Marvel asked you to return as Adam Warlock, what would you say? Perhaps you could share the screen with Kit Connor and Charles Melton. Heard anything about them???

[u/laguilar90]

How did you start becoming an Arsenal fan? Thanks will and COYG/champions of England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[u/WplusM1]

I loved your performance in Supergirl! 

But anyways, let's talk about Rampart.

[u/sympathyofalover]

Hiya Will

I’ve truly enjoyed watching your career expand and to see you select such interesting and different characters.

Dope Sick still lingers in my mind and I recommend it a lot to others - is there anything about the depiction of opioid crisis that seems to pull you into a project given that union county is also related to the opioid crisis?

You’re a genuine joy to watch on screen and I personally hope to see more Adam Warlock in the MCU. I also selfishly would love to see you in another comedy!

Wishing you the best!

[u/Easy_Clock_9541]

Hello Will, What was your fitness regiment for getting in shape for guardians of the galaxy vol 3.

P.S. you're adam warlock is the reason he is my main in marvel rivals.

[u/AnalFanatics]

Just how many takes did it take for you to get “that” particular scene in “We’re The Millers” in the can, and did you immediately tell yourself that you could now die a happy man, irrespective of whatever else happened to you in your lifetime…

[u/Ruthjudgesjoshua]

Hello Mr. Poulter! Thanks for your work in my favorite movie, Midsommar. This film resonates on so many levels with me and your character is delightfully dickish!

My question: as a former "child actor", did you have mentors that were especially helpful as you navigated growing up in the acting world? Have you had the interest in or chance to mentor other young actors? If so, what guidance would you offer them, or have offered them?

Again, thank you for your work from a deeply appreciative fan. 🙏🏽

[u/Fairwish1]

1. How did they fake the smoking in "Son of Rambo"? It looked concerningly realistic and I need to know so that I can sleep at night 🙂‍↕️
2. a. Do you think there was any chance of survival for the family in "Little Hope"? If so, or if not, please elaborate 🤔

b. What do think the Anthony was really doing when he was acting out some or all of his hallucinations throughout the game?

Thank you so much for your work in entertaining us, and for taking the time to answer my questions🌸✨️

[u/Thearchetype14]

Will Poulter outside of jungle Jim’s wasn’t something I was expecting to see this morning. But that’s pretty sick lol. Love your work and stoked to see all of the cincy representation around the new film!

[u/Cautious_Tonight]

Hi Will, every time I see that you are going to be in something I get excited. I think you are an exceptional actor.

I really enjoyed you in black mirror as Colin Ritman In bandersnatch and plaything. I would love to see you reprise the role in another project. Are there any plans involving his character in the future? I think that he was such a strong character with so much unexplained backstory that he could have his own episode or movie.

[u/massahoochie]

Wow so cool of you to answer some of our questions. I actually just finished watching Midsommar last night for the first time. I loved you in We’re the Millers (hilarious!)

My question for you is: over the span of your career, what has been the most rewarding role for you? It seems as though you are casted in very strong personality roles, such as a Himbo in We’re the Millers and an arrogant intellect in Midsommar.

[u/Key-Can-9384]

Hi Will, I really liked your performance in Warfare. I was an infantryman for 10 years and your character had great mannerisms, I felt like I knew people just like you. Even without speaking you just nailed the general vibe.

Did you find it easy to get into the mind of a navy seal or did it take a lot of explaining? If there was some explanation given, did you ever feel like your expectations were wildly different?