Today is the release of Saban Films’ Shepherd in theaters. Russell Owen’s long-time Welsh-inspired horror/thriller feature allows audiences to get into the mind of Eric Black. A man that is haunted by the recent death of his wife. This leads him to take the job of a Shephard on a remote island. Unfortunately, that which haunts him follows him and is further amplified by something supernatural on the island. Or is the reality that this is something that he is creating in his mind?

For Shepherd to work, Owen’s needed a great centerpiece that would be able to deliver his story. This would be a challenging task for any actor as it required them to do many things. For one, becoming the traumatized and somber Eric Black. Also, he would need to communicate with audiences mainly with actions, as he would be on a remote island by himself. Most of what we will get to know about Eric would be told through actions, not spoken words.

For the role, Owen cast Tom Hughes. It is through his actions that we will see the story of Shepherd come to life. He has been BIFA nominated and featured in the prestigious Screen International’s Stars of Tomorrow. Most recently, he wrapped shooting on the western, The English opposite Emily Blunt and other well-known names such as Ciarán Hinds, Stephen Rae, Toby Jones and Rafe Spall.

ALSO SEE: SHEPHERD | RUSSELL OWEN ON BRINGING HIS LONG TIME GHOST STORY TO LIFE [EXCLUSIVE]

With the release of Shepherd in theaters, LRM Online‘s Emmanuel Gomez spoke with Tom Hughes. He shares with us the challenge of becoming Eric, especially given that he only had three weeks to prepare. He goes on to share how he was able to communicate with audiences via his movements and mannerisms. As well as his relationship with Owen to make sure he was delivering his vision. It was a great interview that you can check out down below!

Here is the synopsis for Saban Films’ Shepherd

Haunted by the recent death of his wife, widower Eric Black seeks solitude as a shepherd on a remote Scottish island. As the bleak desolation of the foreboding landscape and terrifying visions begin to overwhelm him, Eric is pushed to the brink of madness. SHEPHERD is a masterful, stylish, supernatural horror-thriller starring Tom Hughes (“Victoria”, Cemetery Junction) and Emmy winner Greta Scacci.