Stephen Fry has been described as a “quintessential Englishman” and has the resume to prove it, thanks to a Cambridge University degree and roles in films such as “Gosford Park” and “Wilde.” But it turns out that his latest role as Polish Holocaust survivor Edek in the upcoming feature, Treasure, hits closer to home. 'Treasure,' which premieres at this month's Berlinale, stars the Fry star opposite Lena Dunham (who also executive produces the project) as a father-daughter duo who return to Poland to confront their family's tragic past.
Despite the heavy subject matter of director Julia von Heinz's feature film, which was filmed in Germany and Poland, including Auschwitz, there's also comedy. Not only does she speak Polish throughout the film (a language Fry is not fluent in), she also sings karaoke in the film. Fry spent last winter taking Polish lessons on Skype in between filming Season 3 of “The Morning Show,” on which he is currently a guest. “I’ve been practicing quite a bit,” he said. Diversity. “I really wanted to try it.”
How did you get involved in this project?
I sent the script. I wouldn't say I got the same number of scripts that went into the letterboxing of Barry Keoghan or Timothee Chalomet. But I've received quite a few scripts and most of them are disappointing in some way. This was amazing. I think it was very touching and moving. I must confess that there was also a personal element. A Jewish man from that generation who survived the concentration camps had a huge impact on my family's story. Plus, I loved Lena Dunham's participation as an EP and star. I really admire what she did on “Girls” and I think she’s really talented. The thought of working with her was truly thrilling.
What was the most difficult part of filming?
No questions. I'm going to Auschwitz. Nothing can prepare you for that experience. I have never been. We weren't allowed to film scenes inside Auschwitz, nor were we allowed to do so, but we were allowed to be outside Auschwitz. It was a beautiful morning with quite cold weather and lots of snow. [the barracks]. Standing on the tracks over there and noticing the incoming train [were transporting people to their deaths] — It's a very, very special experience. We “acclimated” ourselves to the fact that we were there the day before filming – I don’t know what the word is.
You and Lena play father and daughter. What was it like working with her?
It's really great. She is the sweetest and most wonderful company. What makes a happy shoot is when you trust the director and when he knows what he wants. It was an amazing feeling that we were all a team working together. Julia actually suffered from COVID-19 at some point while we were filming, and she directed us off set. But it was a really happy shoot with no major accidents.
There's a scene where a fire alarm goes off in a hotel and you have to run in a baggy dressing gown. It was February in Eastern Europe. How cold was it when filming?
very! I also wish I had the vodka tray the hotel manager brought with me. [in the scene] There was real vodka to warm my insides. It's the night vision that makes you feel like you're making money. But honestly, it wasn't that bad.
This is my first time participating in the Berlin Film Festival. What do you think about it?
I'm very much looking forward to it. I know this is a very important festival for this type of film and I hope people like it. You're not competing, so in that sense you don't have to sweat how it goes. I hope people react in a positive way and get something out of it.
Things you didn't know about Stephen Fry…
His first acting experience was as an extra in ‘Chariots of Fire’ while he was a student at the University of Cambridge in England.
He once happened to find himself in an elevator with Clint Eastwood in Edinburgh, Scotland, where they exchanged compliments.
He first fell in love with Oscar Wilde as a child when he saw Anthony Asquith's 1952 film adaptation of “The Importance of Being Earnest” on television. Fry went on to play a writer in 'Wilde'.
He was first introduced to “House” star Hugh Laurie at Cambridge University by Emma Thompson. Laurie was playing guitar in her dorm room and they immediately began writing songs together. The duo later formed a comedy act called Fry & Laurie.