TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX

CHRISTOPHER WALKEN INTERVIEW

Q: Despite all the darkness in the characters' previous lives, your character tries to pull Mr. Washington through into the light, so to speak. How did you approach your role in the film?

WALKEN: Well, yeah, I think that's true, it- Denzel's character and I-and mine, we were, both I guess, we could call professional soldiers. I've retired, I'm older than he is obviously, and I've got a nice life. And I think I invite him to have a nice life. You know, get out of that business of nearly getting killed everyday. Uh, and I have a nice house, nice wife, kids, swimming pool, but it doesn't turn out that way for him.

Q: How much of Mexico City affected your own perception of the role?

WALKEN: Well, I really liked Mexico, I've been there before. I'm very fond of Mexico City. I come from New York City and in fact there's a lot about Mexico City that reminds me of New York.

Q: Did the spirituality of the film affect you in any way?

WALKEN: In what way?

Q: There's an element of redemption, but it also kind of----

WALKEN: Oh, no I think it's true that's the key thing really, that's the heart of the movie is this man, Creasy, who has had a hard life and his life hasn't turned out so well. And then he meets this little girl who gives him a new lease on life I guess. Yeah, I think that's what it's about.

Q: What do you think elevates "MAN ON FIRE" from other dramas?

WALKEN: I hope you're right. You know, you never know what's gonna happen with movies I hope that people buy a lot of tickets.

Q: What does the title signify to you?

WALKEN: Well, the long time ago I read a book, there is the book "MAN ON FIRE" and that's obviously what it comes from. The book, from what I recall is quite different from the movie.

Q: In terms of symbolism, what do you think the title reflects?

WALKEN: "MAN ON FIRE"-I'm gonna have to think about that.