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Directed by Elegance Bratton (The Inspection), By Any Means centers on an FBI agent (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) who is investigating the killings of targeted civil rights leaders. Helping him on his quest is mafia hitman Greg Scarpa (Mark Wahlberg), a man who knows a thing or two about violence and vengeance. The feature, written by Sascha Penn (Power Book III: Raising Kanan), hits theaters Friday. Check out our post for a few Wahlberg insights on By Any Means!
Read more: Mark Wahlberg Talks “Great Chemistry” With ‘By Any Means’ Star Yahya Abdul Mateen IIA Unique Role For Mark Wahlberg
By Any Means, inspired by a true story, was a feature which boasted a rare role for Mark Wahlberg. “It’s one of those characters where you don’t get to play that often,” said the actor, who was last seen in the comedy Balls Up. “You just got to dig a little deeper and go a little darker.” Wahlberg described Greg Scarpa, aka the Grim Reaper, as a “fascinating guy” and he added that he was approached on “more than one occasion” to play Scarpa. “I read the script (to By Any Means) and fell in love with it, and I thought it was fascinating how this guy who lived and existed in this world of the mafia in New York and the Colombo Wars all of a sudden he’s down in the South during the Civil Rights movement.”
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II Is A Bonafide Star
Another postive aspect of filming By Any Means was getting the chance to collaborate with Yahya Abdul-Mateen II. “I had never worked with Yahya and never met Yahya,” said Wahlberg. “But to see the level of talent and also a level of charisma and commitment that he has – it’s pretty incredible. I think we have great chemistry together. He’s fantastic in the part and it’s one of the few times where I’m seeing a star about to really explode. I can’t wait to see what he does in the future.”
Rounding out the By Any Means ensemble are Nicole Beharie, Josh Lucas, LisaGay Hamilton, LaChanze, Ethan Embry, David Strathairn and Giancarlo Esposito.
Catch By Any Means starting Friday, September 4. Share your thoughts on the movie in the comments!
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We review Buddy and Coyote vs. Acme on the latest episode of CinemAddicts:
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