While the name Daniel Sunjata likely won’t ring too many bells, this writer slowly became familiar with him from his role as colorful firefighter Franco in FX‘s post-9/11 drama “Rescue Me.” So imagine our surprise when, at the demise of the aforementioned show, his name made all the film blogsphere headlines late last year as he was cast in Christopher Nolan‘s “The Dark Knight Rises.” Of course, Sunjata’s role was reported simply as a “special forces op” but it looks like the actor has revealed a little more insight about his role and his experience. And of course, if you’re sensitive to anything regarding the film, there are slight spoilers.
“Under penalty of death, I have been sworn to secrecy regarding this project,” Sunjata told Da Man. “But what I can tell you is that I portray a special forces operative who tries to help Batman defeat Bane. Working with Christopher Nolan was a great thrill for me. Taking direction from such a visionary artist is what every actor dreams of. I was very thankful for the opportunity.”
Obviously, this isn’t much to go on, but it does suggest that Batman won’t be alone in attempting to take down Bane, whose reign of terror likely will be getting the attention of more than just Bruce Wayne. Like his previous films though, Nolan and co. know exactly what they’re doing, so any information revealed probably won’t have much weight to it at the end of the day. Furthermore, it doesn’t sound like Sunjata (and probably most of the supporting players in the production) know too much more than the general public.
“Indeed an impenetrable cloud of secrecy surrounded the entire shoot—to the extent that most of the actors never saw a full script. We even had to sign confidentiality agreements. Beyond that, however, the burden of maintaining secrecy rests mainly with the production staff and with Mr. Nolan,” he explained.
But we’ll find out soon enough. “The Dark Knight Rises” will swoop into theaters on July 20th.
