Austin Abrams: A Rising Star on the Verge of Breakout

Austin Abrams is making waves in Hollywood with his standout performance in the gripping mystery-horror film 'Weapons.' At 28, this Florida native is not just on the path to fame; he's already landed major roles, including a lead in 20th Century's adaptation of 'Whalefall' and starring in Zach Cregger’s upcoming 'Resident Evil.'

The Baffling Disappearance in 'Weapons'

Set in the mysterious town of Maybrook, PA, 'Weapons' dives into the eerie case of 17 missing schoolchildren. Abrams was part of an original cast that included the likes of Pedro Pascal, who had to step down due to scheduling conflicts caused by recent industry strikes. But Abrams refused to leave the project, showcasing his commitment and passion for the film.

Why 'Weapons' Stole Abrams' Heart

In a candid conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Abrams shared how 'Weapons' captured his imagination as soon as he saw 'Barbarian,' Cregger's earlier work. He described his immediate desire to collaborate with the filmmaker, stating, "I need to figure out how to meet this guy and work with him." This bold move may have played a role in his casting in 'Resident Evil.'

Clash of Characters and Dark Humor

With Josh Brolin now playing a pivotal role in 'Weapons,' the film features a bizarre and intense showdown between Abrams' character, James, and Brolin's Archer. The dark tension of their conflict is juxtaposed with unexpected humor, a combination that Abrams describes as strangely entertaining, even in a horror setup.

Abrams Reflects on His Troubled Character

Abrams portrays James, a homeless addict whose struggles echo real-life issues. Reflecting on this role, he expressed empathy for James, stating, "Being addicted to drugs is hell. It’s a nightmare." His connection to the character is evident, providing depth to his performance.

'Willow' Moment Goes Viral

One of the film's standout moments comes from James’ humorous encounter with a 'Willow' DVD, which has captured the internet's attention. Abrams revealed that the line was spontaneous, adding to the film's charm and showcasing the chemistry on set.

Looking Ahead: Big Projects on the Horizon

As Abrams continues to navigate his rising career, he’s already diving deep into his next project, 'Whalefall,' exploring the emotional landscape of his character. He hinted at the intense preparations for 'Resident Evil,' revealing that director Zach is thoroughly committed to bringing an authentic experience to life.

The Impact of 'Euphoria' and Future Endeavors

Although he won't return for 'Euphoria' Season 3, Abrams acknowledged the show's role in launching numerous careers, including his own. As Hollywood evolves, he remains focused on the craft, eager for what lies ahead.

Austin Abrams is a name to watch in the coming years, with his unique talent and choices ensuring he remains at the forefront of the industry.