In the shimmering world of cinema, where artistry meets storytelling, a film titled “How To Have Sex” has risen, weaving an intricate narrative around consent—a topic of paramount importance in today’s discourse. At the center of this narrative stands the character Badger, brought to life by the indomitable Shaun Thomas.
From the euphoria of Cannes’ acclaim to the nuances of portraying a ‘party boy’ with depth, Shaun sheds light on his journey, the film’s underlying message, and the unparalleled experience of collaborating with director Molly Manning Walker. As we prepare to embark on this dialogue, it becomes clear that beyond the glamour and acclaim, there’s a profound responsibility shouldered by artists like Shaun.
Let’s dive into his world and hear firsthand about the creation of “How To Have Sex” and the ripple effect it hopes to create.
Photography @Joseph Sinclair
SD – How To Have Sex” has received significant acclaim, winning Un Certain Regard at Cannes. Can you share your initial reaction when you found out about this recognition and what it means for you as an actor?
ST – My initial reaction was relief, seeing the film being received so positively & achieving an incredible amount of success at Cannes was so satisfying. I know how much this film means to everyone involved,
so for it to gain the recognition it has is really rewarding. As an actor I’m honored that I was able to be a part of telling such an important story and getting to work with a super talented cast & crew.
SD – Your character, Badger, in “How To Have Sex” is described as a funny and flirtatious northerner. How did you prepare for this role, and what aspects of Badger’s personality did you find most intriguing to portray?
ST – I prepared for my role by thinking about the people I’ve come across in my own life and I also researched what the modern-day ‘party boy’ would behave like. I knew that playing this character would take a lot of energy, so I had to be physically and mentally prepared and I also knew I had to channel lots of inner immaturity. But I also had to work out how to make Badger confident without being arrogant, and it seemed to me that Badger was most confident when he was under the influence. The most intriguing aspect to portray in Badger was his empathetic side. This comes from a narrative that me & Molly worked with throughout the shoot, we thought that Badger had a younger sister and he perhaps thought of this sister in certain situations.
SD – The film delves into the important and timely theme of consent. Could you tell us about the challenges and responsibilities of depicting such a sensitive subject matter on screen?
ST – I think the biggest responsibility and challenge was making sure that I portrayed Molly’s vision and voice as honestly as I could. With it being such a sensitive matter, I went into this job with a strong feeling of responsibility which gave me determination to get it one hundred percent right.
SD – You’ve worked with director Molly Manning Walker on this project. Can you share your experience collaborating with her and what you admire most about her as a filmmaker?
ST – My experience of collaborating with Molly was exceptional, I do not have any memories of working with Molly that I don’t look back and smile upon. She gave me so much respect as an actor and took
all my thoughts and opinions on board. She made her direction truly clear, and I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with not just a phenomenal director but such a fantastic human being.
I’m sure she will make many more meaningful films and I will live with the hope that I get to work with Molly again.
Photography @Joseph Sinclair
SD – MUBI has acquired the worldwide rights to the film. What are your expectations and hopes for how this film will reach audiences around the world?
ST- Mubi are exceptional and only associate with great films and I am confident that they will push this important film as far as they can. I really hope this film will give people who have been in this situation a voice and I also hope it goes on to be used as an educational tool to teach the younger generation about consent.
SD – Your earlier roles in films like “The Selfish Giant” and “Ali And Ava” have garnered critical acclaim. How do you choose the projects you want to be a part of, and what draws you to certain
roles?
ST – I’m not quite sure I’m at the level of selecting projects yet so it would be very dishonest if I said I did. But what draws me to the characters I’ve played is my want to understand them & have great interest in their personalities. I always try to keep my characters close to the truth because nothing hits home more than the truth.
SD – “HOW TO HAVE SEX” has been making waves on the festival and awards circuit. Could you tell us about your favorite moments or memories from the film’s journey so far?
ST – I think the most memorable moment so far must be the success at Cannes, getting the chance to share those moments with the people who I worked closely with was a very heart-warming moment. Experiencing the sheer happiness & the film getting the recognition we all hoped for was certainly a moment to remember.
SD – As an actor, what do you hope audiences take away from your portrayal of Badger and the overall message of “How To Have Sex”?
ST – I hope that people can take away a better understanding and awareness of consent and that people are more aware of other factors beyond just verbal agreement such as body language. The main thing I
want people to learn from Badger is to speak out when you know someone has done wrong and to drink responsibly to protect themselves from getting into situations you may go onto regret.
Photography @Joseph Sinclair
