David Thewlis, English-French actor, director, and screenwriter

Born David Wheeler on March 20, 1963, this English artist is now widely recognized by his professional name, David Thewlis. Throughout his illustrious career, he has carved out an impressive and varied path not only as an actor but also as a distinguished director, screenwriter, and author. His journey into the performing arts has seen him evolve into one of Britain's most compelling and versatile talents, capable of inhabiting a vast array of characters across film and television.

The Breakthrough: *Naked* and Critical Acclaim

Thewlis's definitive breakthrough arrived with the harrowing 1993 film Naked, a raw and unflinching portrayal that immediately put him on the international map. His intense performance as Johnny, a highly articulate and philosophically cynical drifter, was so captivating that it earned him the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor, cementing his reputation as a formidable presence in dramatic cinema. Naked became a significant independent film of its era, admired for its challenging themes and powerful performances, establishing Thewlis as an actor of profound depth and courage.

Global Recognition: *Harry Potter* and *Wonder Woman*

While Naked showcased his artistic depth, it was his foray into blockbuster cinema that brought David Thewlis widespread global recognition and commercial success. Millions of fans worldwide know him fondly as the kind yet haunted Remus Lupin, the werewolf professor from the beloved Harry Potter franchise. He inhabited this iconic role across several films from 2004 to 2011, becoming a fan favorite and an integral part of the magical world. Years later, he would again captivate audiences, this time as the enigmatic Sir Patrick Morgan, who is ultimately revealed as the powerful antagonist Ares, in the immensely popular DC Comics film Wonder Woman (2017). This role further demonstrated his versatility across vastly different cinematic universes, from fantasy to superhero epics.

A Diverse Filmography

Thewlis’s extensive filmography is a testament to his eclectic tastes, encompassing a remarkable range of genres and characters. He portrayed the tormented poet Paul Verlaine opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in Total Eclipse (1995), lent his voice to Earthworm in the whimsical James and the Giant Peach (1996), and battled mythical creatures in Dragonheart (1996). His journey also took him to the Himalayas for Seven Years in Tibet (1997), to the Crusades in Ridley Scott’s Kingdom of Heaven (2005), and into the heart-wrenching historical drama The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008). Critically acclaimed films like Steven Spielberg’s War Horse (2011), the inspiring biopic The Theory of Everything (2014), the unique stop-motion animation Anomalisa (2015), and the mind-bending psychological thriller I'm Thinking of Ending Things (2020) further underscore his ability to disappear into any narrative, regardless of its scope or style.

Ventures into Television: *Fargo* and Beyond

Television has also provided fertile ground for David Thewlis to showcase his extraordinary talent, yielding several memorable performances. He took on the role of Cyrus Crabb in the ambitious miniseries Dinotopia (2002), but it was his chilling portrayal of the enigmatic and menacing V. M. Varga in the third season of FX's critically lauded anthology series Fargo (2017) that truly garnered widespread acclaim. His performance in Fargo was so utterly compelling that it earned him nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Critics' Choice Television Award, solidifying his status as a master of complex characterizations on the small screen. Beyond live-action, his distinctive voice brought to life the delightfully unsettling Shame Wizard in the popular animated sitcoms Big Mouth (2017–present) and its spin-off Human Resources (2022-present), adding another layer to his diverse portfolio. More recently, he delivered another powerful performance as Christopher Edwards in the true-crime miniseries Landscapers (2021).

Beyond Acting: Director, Screenwriter, and Author

While celebrated primarily for his acting prowess, David Thewlis is a true polymath in the arts. He is not merely a performer but also a respected director, a skilled screenwriter, and an accomplished author, demonstrating a comprehensive artistic vision that extends well beyond the camera's lens. This multifaceted approach to storytelling enriches his overall contribution to the creative landscape, highlighting his profound commitment to the craft.

Upcoming Projects

Looking ahead, Thewlis continues to command attention with exciting upcoming projects. Audiences can anticipate his appearance in Enola Holmes 2 (scheduled for 2022) and his significant role in James Cameron's highly anticipated Avatar 3 (slated for 2024), ensuring his enduring presence on both the big screen and in popular culture for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about David Thewlis

Who is David Thewlis?

David Thewlis, born David Wheeler, is an acclaimed English actor, director, screenwriter, and author known for his versatile performances in both independent and blockbuster films, as well as notable television roles.

When was David Thewlis born?

David Thewlis was born on March 20, 1963.

What is David Thewlis famous for?

He is most famous for his roles as Remus Lupin in the Harry Potter franchise, Sir Patrick Morgan / Ares in Wonder Woman, his Cannes-winning performance in Naked, and his Emmy-nominated role as V. M. Varga in Fargo.

What are David Thewlis's most notable film roles?

His most notable film roles include Johnny in Naked, Remus Lupin in Harry Potter, Sir Patrick Morgan / Ares in Wonder Woman, Paul Verlaine in Total Eclipse, and roles in films like The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, War Horse, and The Theory of Everything.

What are David Thewlis's most notable TV roles?

On television, he is highly recognized for his portrayal of V. M. Varga in Fargo, the voice of the Shame Wizard in Big Mouth and Human Resources, Cyrus Crabb in Dinotopia, and Christopher Edwards in Landscapers.

Has David Thewlis won any major awards?

Yes, David Thewlis won the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor for his role in Naked. He also received nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Critics' Choice Television Award for his performance in Fargo.

Is David Thewlis only an actor?

No, in addition to being a celebrated actor, David Thewlis is also an accomplished director, screenwriter, and author, showcasing his diverse artistic talents.