In the gritty crime thriller “She Rides Shotgun,” Taron Egerton takes on a challenging transformation to portray Nate, a brutally violent ex-con. Egerton, known for his versatility, shaved his head and bulked up to fit the character’s rough exterior. Despite his intense physical transformation, Egerton insists that there was no “method nonsense” involved. His dedication to the role is evident, but he maintains a distance from method acting, emphasizing the human and relatable aspects of the character. This article delves into Egerton’s approach to the role, the film’s production challenges, and the actor’s evolving career choices.
Taron Egerton doesn’t hesitate when discussing what draws him to Nate, the fiercely self-loathing ex-con he portrays in Lionsgate‘s latest thriller, “She Rides Shotgun.”
“I actually like that he hates himself,” Egerton shares. “He’s that reluctant hero, a tortured soul who couldn’t see himself as such. He’s only reflective about his faults. He’s someone who walks around feeling unworthy of the world, especially as a father. That kind of emotional inarticulacy is intriguing to me. It feels profoundly human to carry a voice in your head that keeps reminding you of your failures.”
The film, directed by Nick Rowland and adapted from Jordan Harper’s novel, centers on Nate’s life after being released from prison. The intense narrative follows him as he’s pursued by a dangerous drug kingpin while trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter Polly, played by Ana Sophia Heger.
“I found the role distinct and wanted to explore something grittier than my usual parts,” explains Egerton, who previously earned an Oscar nod for “Rocketman.” “The relationship between Nate and his daughter moved me deeply. Making these kinds of movies is tough. They’re challenging to produce and even harder to bring to audiences, but the creative reward is immense.”
Egerton, who also serves as a producer for “She Rides Shotgun,” adds, “There was never enough time or money for this film. We completed it in 25 days, which feels like a miracle. Many sacrifices were made.”
Egerton’s transformation into Nate is striking. Known for his charming looks, he took on a tougher appearance, shaving his head and using temporary tattoos to embody the character. He also increased his muscle mass significantly. “Shaving your head is surprisingly liberating,” Egerton remarks.
He adds about his physique, “Transforming your body for a role and then reverting is challenging. In Hollywood, we often glorify this as an achievement, but personally, I find discussing it in a healthy way quite difficult.”
“The build was meant to reflect someone who spent five years on prison food—not lean, but functionally strong, focusing on survival,” Egerton clarifies.
One temporary tattoo almost became permanent. “I nearly had chillis tattooed behind my ear,” Egerton recalls. “It was the film’s last day. My mother stopped me just in time during her visit to New Mexico.” Despite the near-miss, Egerton confirms he has no real tattoos.
While Nate’s character is harsh, Egerton and the crew ensured a light atmosphere on set, especially for young Ana. “We balanced pushing emotional limits with keeping it fun and light,” Egerton explains. “There was no method acting. Once cut was called, we returned to ourselves.”
“She Rides Shotgun” marks another dramatic turn for Egerton, who also features in Apple TV+’s “Smoke” and the upcoming “Apex” with Charlize Theron.
“Apex” is a unique venture for Egerton. “It’s the strangest role I’ve played,” he reveals. “Thankfully, the producers and Netflix supported my unconventional ideas.”
Looking ahead, Egerton expresses interest in lighter films. “I’d love to do a rom-com,” he says, citing “When Harry Met Sally” and “Notting Hill” as favorites. “I’m hoping to manifest it soon.”
“She Rides Shotgun” hits theaters Friday, promising audiences a captivating and gritty narrative driven by Egerton’s compelling performance.
