For the first time, actor Idris Elba has given some insight into the villain he is playing for "Star Trek Beyond." Speaking to MTV, he stated that the "Star Trek" franchise has been known for "classic villains" who want to end the world, but with his character, there will be something new and fresh added to that.
"In this version of the film, there's a slightly different twist to that. It's quite an interesting journey, which I think is groundbreaking for the franchise," the actor told MTV. "But, it still keeps with the 'classic bad guy is a classic bad guy' tone."
However, Elba did not explain who or what his villain would be. MTV indicated that he may be playing an entirely original character.
A oopular speculation is that he will be portraying a Klingon, particularly after the events that went down in "Star Trek Into Darkness," but according to /Film, actor-writer Simon Pegg stated that Elba would not be playing a Klingon.
Fans of the franchise will also recall that "Star Trek Into Darkness" director J.J. Abram outright stated that Benedict Cumberbatch was not playing the villain Khan even though the actor was. Given this, there may be a chance that Elba is indeed playing a Klingon despite Pegg's statement.
Further pointing to the Klingon speculation is the fact that Elba also stated in the interview that he was working 18-hour days, which would mean the actor is spending time putting on make-up and costume. If not a Klingon, he may be playing a different type of alien race taken from the "Star Trek" lore.
Also according to /Film, Elba's statements seem to suggest that he might not be playing a classic villain from the older films, but that doesn't necessarily rule out he may be playing a character seen in the television series.
"Star Trek Beyond" opens in theaters nationwide on July 22, 2016.
