Brosnan plays a paraplegic philosopher

Hollywood hunk Pierce Brosnan, who plays dual roles as Professor Brunner and his alter ego Chiron the Centaur in Foxstar Studios’ new fantasy adventure Percy Jackson & the Lightening Thief directed by Chris Columbus, talks to TOI.
What attracted you to the film and your role?
l The books really. I bought them for my son, Dylan, who is now 12. Then my agent called me and said, ‘There’s a job offer here, it’s called Percy Jackson.’ I started reading the first book and thought it was great.
What is your character like?
l He is a strange, hippie, tweedy, paraplegic philosopher and teacher. That’s how he starts as Professor Brunner. He is Percy’s teacher and is introduced at the Metropolitan Museum, in a hall of Greek mythology, giving a lecture. Then when Percy goes into the other world, I show up as Chiron, his mentor and his guide through this world.
Did you give the young actors any advice?
l No, I didn’t need to. I just hung out with them. They all have their own vibe going and you can’t go in there and try to top what they’re doing.
You’ve worked with Chris before — what do you think stands out about him as a director?
I love his boyish enthusiasm, kindness and his sense of fun. I remember him indelibly from the days of Mrs Doubtfire... his lovely charm on the set. He has a deep passion for what he does as well as a good understanding of his audience and what works.
Is there an overall theme to the film?
l It’s about fathers and sons. I think it’s about education, the environment and the climate we live in and the confusion that’s upon us. It’s about the malaise we find ourselves in and the issues and conflicts we face such as climate change, wars and holy wars. But ultimately it’s about entertainment.
If your children want to act, how would you feel?
l I have a 26-year-old son who’s an actor, my 12-year-old just appeared in Oklahoma and plays the guitar and my eight year old is a drummer and sings. It’s okay of they want to do it, but they’ve got to get good grades at school.
Would you like to direct films in the future?
l Yes. Somebody gave me a script that I am now working on.