JARED LETO
The Thirty Seconds to Mars frontman, 45, goes method for the sequel to Blade Runner, the 1982 cult film.
You play bad guy Niander Wallace in Blade Runner What do you love about the franchise?
2049. I’m such a fan of the original; I saw the movie on VHS when I was a kid, and it changed my life. For me, it was Star Wars.
Star Wars,
Speaking of Harrison Ford reprises his role as Rick Deckard in the Blade Runner sequel. What was he like to work with?
Absolutely mind-blowing. He’s a living legend and such a towering presence. He is like, 70 is the new 30. And he’s in better shape than I am, for sure. [ Laughs]
You also used contacts that made you completely blind, like your character. Why?
If I was a better actor maybe I wouldn’t have done it—i would’ve acted! A young man named Chris in Los Angeles who lost his sight at a very young age was my teacher. We actually modelled Niander’s eyes on his.
What can you tell us about the Joker-focused Suicide Squad spin-off you’re reportedly doing with Margot Robbie?
I can’t tell you much because I don’t know much! We’ll have to wait and see. But I love Margot—i think she’s one of the great actors working today. You’ve only just begun to see what she’s capable of.