In the latest episode of True Detective: Night Country, fans were left stunned by the shocking turn of events that unfolded. Finn Bennett, who portrays Peter Prior in the show, recently shed some light on the major death and the emotional decision his character had to make.
During a recent interview with THR, Bennett discussed the intense scene where his character, Peter, confronts his father, Captain Hank Prior, played by John Hawkes. He revealed that the scene went through several rewrites but the essence of it remained the same. Bennett explained that the original version was more wordy and emotionally charged, with Hank questioning why Peter always seems to find himself in difficult situations. However, the actors, Jodie Foster and John Hawkes, felt that less dialogue was needed to convey the emotional weight of the moment.
Instead, the scene became a heart-wrenching exchange between Peter and Hank, where Detective Danvers, played by Jodie Foster, appeals to Peter's rationality and moral compass, while Hank appeals to his sentimental side. The resulting tug of war leaves Peter torn in the middle, ultimately leading to his decision.
Bennett goes on to reflect on his character's choice, emphasizing that it was not a deliberate decision but more of a reflex, a snap judgment made in the heat of the moment. He shares John Hawkes' philosophy on acting, that characters are not limited by what they would or wouldn't do, as people constantly surprise themselves with their choices in real life. Peter Prior's decision will undoubtedly haunt him, leaving him with regrets and lingering thoughts for the rest of his life.
Throughout the series, Peter has been driven by his desire to be a good cop, constantly striving to prove himself. Bennett explains that the character's dedication to the job often leads him to spend less time with his family, but it doesn't make him a bad father. Peter is motivated by the need to excel in his profession and make a difference.
Interestingly, Bennett offers some insight into the real-life inspiration for Peter Prior. He reveals that he had the opportunity to meet a police officer in the Canadian arctic who married an Indigenous woman and worked his way up the ranks. This officer shared that young cops, especially those from small towns, will do whatever it takes to prove themselves. This firsthand encounter helped Bennett shape his portrayal of Peter and understand the character's drive to solve the case.
As the series nears its conclusion, viewers are left contemplating the complex dynamics at play in True Detective: Night Country. The choices made by characters like Peter Prior add layers of depth to the storyline. Whether he is viewed as a dirty cop or someone caught in a difficult situation is open to interpretation, but one thing is certain - Peter's actions will have lasting consequences.
With more episodes yet to come, fans eagerly await the resolution of the gripping narrative and the unveiling of the truth behind the deaths of the researchers in Alaska. True Detective: Night Country continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling, talented cast, and thought-provoking themes. Stay tuned for more twists and turns as the series reaches its climactic finale.
Source: THR
