Joey Batey: I read Sapkowski’s books three times to understand the Slavic sense of humor [TYLKO U NAS]

On June 29, Netflix will show the first part of the third season of “The Witcher”. This is the last season of Henry Cavill in this role, but Joey Batey as Dandelion does not end his adventure with the production. Justyna Bryczkowska said e.g. about improvising on set and why it’s easy for him to slip into a role when he once again steps on the set of this series. You can watch the video interview below:

Joey Batey on The Witcher Season 3: It was by far the hardest shoot of my career

Justyna Bryczkowska: Joey, what helped you the most on the set of the third season? Was it easier because you already know what it’s like, or harder because of the fans’ expectations?

Joey Batey: The cooperation with our composer helped me the most. We started talking about songs even before we got the script. We had some idea of ​​where they would appear, but we were able to toss around ideas on how to portray the champion with music. This allows me to stay in touch with the character even months before going on set. It’s out there somewhere, knocking from a distance. In such a situation, once I get the script, I can get to know the details and build on everything. Thanks to this, it’s easy, just put on a coat.

Has the role of Dandelion changed you in any way?

Sure. It definitely made me more attentive. I pay more attention to what I want, what will make me happy, also outside the world of The Witcher. I’m more at peace with myself, I took some qualities from him – maybe more confidence, although I’m still quite a shy nerd.

Since we have the opportunity to talk for the first time, I wanted to ask how you see the Slavic elements of this story.

Slavicness flows directly from Sapkowski’s work, and I try to focus on the message of the books. I read many fragments for the third time, trying to understand how the Slavic sense of humor works and how it is transmitted to readers. I’m still trying to understand it fully, it’s finding humor in really dark moments. Dandelion is now virtually immune to the sight of more monsters and blood. It is in our series that, in my opinion, is very close to Sapkowski’s books and intentions.

I will emphasize that you are my favorite Buttercup. What I like about him is that he doesn’t care what other people think about Geralt. She accepts him as he is. What was it like working on the relationship of these two characters between you and Henry?

Henry had a great influence on Dandelion. I’ve even been thinking about it recently – our first scene together in Season 1 was filmed with our backs to each other, Henry the whole time with his back to me. This was a summary of this relationship for me. We support each other. We are like two sides of a coin. That’s how I tried to approach it – enjoy this difference.

Is there room for improvisation on set? changing lines?

I don’t know who you’ve been talking to, I’m professional above all… Seriously, of course I do. I’m so grateful that Lauren (S. Hissrich – ed.], the writers and directors are open to suggestions as we call them. I always say “say no if it doesn’t work”, and Lauren often takes advantage of that to reject the poor jokes. However, allowing me to come up with suggestions gives me the feeling that I am in control of my character. I can’t control the threads, where he goes, but I can influence how he does it. It makes me happy that I can create him, even if it may sometimes annoy others.

Oh, I don’t think it’s that bad. What was the worst thing that happened during the filming of the third season?

the worst? It was definitely the most difficult shooting of my career. At some point, I injured my back – I won’t reveal how, not to spoil the story, but I’ve had a few more serious injuries.

The chemistry between Dandelion and the rest of the characters is very important. Are you getting ready for a new opening?

with Liam?

With all.

I think Dandelion is good at finding something good in others and showing it to the world. Thanks to this, he gets along well with others. I can’t imagine that changing in Season 4, so I’m looking forward to seeing Liam and the other actors coming in, and I think, also as Dandelion, to welcome them into the family.

Finally, can you tell us about a strange meeting with “The Witcher” fans?

Some are indeed strange, but never bad. Most people who come up to me on the street are nerdy like me, so we have similar personalities, she says shyly, “Hi, nice to meet you, bye.” Our last trip to Brazil was very intense, where 15,000 people gathered in front of the stage. people. The noise, warmth and love we’ve gotten – for the characters, the books, the games – is amazing. I’m really glad people want to see me on this show.

Don’t get too emotional or I’ll start crying.

Thanks for the call.