Meanwhile, in the lab where they create Westworld, we see the behind-the-scenes, the R&D. Another layer/contrast is between the sterile, modern command center and the rough-and-tumble Old West. The cast further sprawls once we reach here, meeting head programmer Bernard Lowe (Jeffrey Wright), his assistant Elsie Hughes (Shannon Woodward), no-nonsense park supervisor Theresa Cullen (Sidse Babett Knudsen), abrasive narrative director Lee Sizemore (Simon Quarterman) and head of security Ashley Stubbs (Luke Hemsworth).
During the introduction to Westworld, we witness a few robots malfunction, which Lowe speculates is because of the most recent software update courtesy of park creator Dr. Robert Ford (Anthony Hopkins). With over 30 years since the park’s last “critical failure,” (what that failure entailed is left ambiguous), Cullen immediately moves to handle it. With Stubbs’ security detail in tow, Lowe goes to check on a malfunctioning unit in underground storage, where the coolant has leaked and flooded parts of the room
They find Ford already testing the unit, a hard-drinking prospector who turns out to be one of the first. This already seems like a perfect role for Hopkins. Beyond being a beloved British actor and the living definition of gravitas, his boredom with his own acting roles gives Ford the distant edge he needs to serve as the “God” of Westworld. There’s a Dr. Manhattan feeling coming off of him, a detachment that makes me wonder, given the scale of his accomplishment: has Ford moved beyond his creation? And what are his plans if he has?
Got a nice ring to it.
Get a closer look at the villain!
The James Bond actor also talked about the film's lengthy production.
Wonder Woman rides the bus?
This is family business.
Henry Golding transforms into Snake Eyes in this cool sneak peek!