Ben Barnes & Joe Freeman interview on The Institute: Stephen King, hope vs evil & complex characters

Ben Barnes & Joe Freeman interview on The Institute: Stephen King, hope vs evil & complex characters

Ben Barnes discusses the series’ dark yet compelling premise, following children with extraordinary abilities as they struggle against a sinister institution. Freeman describes the slow-burn tension of the story, highlighting the audience’s desire to see the young characters overcome injustice and abuse. Both actors reflect on King’s enduring genius, with Barnes noting the author’s talent for creating complex, flawed characters in extraordinary circumstances. Freeman describes his approach to playing Luke, emphasising the character’s vulnerability beneath his intelligence and the importance of portraying him as a true child. Barnes explains how he developed Tim’s haunted yet hopeful nature and describes the unique challenge of capturing the character’s internal struggles. Both share favourite moments from filming, from night shoots in empty streets to the camaraderie on set. Barnes and Freeman discuss the significance of premiering at South by Southwest London and express their hopes that audiences – and King fans – will be moved by the adaptation. Ultimately, they view The Institute as both a tense thriller and a story of hope, resilience and the fight for justice.

Interviewer: Sarah Bradbury
Editing: Olivia Barker

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