“‘Can you strangle me?’ That’s a common one,” says actor Michael C. Hall.
It’s not that his fans really want him to channel his inner serial killer.
“A lot of people come up and say in a half joking voice, ‘Would you mind strangling me for a photo that I can put on Instagram?’”
“I’m happy to take a photo, but I don’t like to pretend to kill someone,” says Hall. “And only special people get strangulation.”
He’s actually putting his former TV alter ego on hold these days to star in the film “Cold in July” (opening Friday). Hall plays a protective father who shoots a home intruder. Enter a vengeful ex-con (Sam Shepard) who wants revenge, and a private detective (Don Johnson) trying to sort it out.
Q:What was the appeal of “Cold in July?”
A: With “Dexter” coming to a close, I was really interested in finding a part that had me playing someone who wasn’t super capable. In this movie, I play just a regular guy who has all these crazy things happening all around him. But his life isn’t so spectacular or remarkable, which was wonderful.
Q: What was it like to work with legends like Shepard and Johnson?
A: I was able to incorporate any sense of awe or intimidation into the dynamics that existed in the plot. I found that Sam is available, supportive and certainly game for trying anything in a scene. And Don doesn’t disappoint. Don Johnson has more charisma than anyone should have. He’s also really funny and has a great sense of humor.
Q:In 2010, it was announced that you were battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma and later you announced that you’re in remission. I know you don’t talk about your cancer much, but could you address how you’re feeling? And how did cancer change your outlook on life?
A: I feel great and I’m in excellent health. I think having cancer did give me a greater sense of appreciation for good health. I don’t think I was someone in a state of denial about my mortality. But the treatments really fostered in me some greater appreciation that I am mortal. Cancer did give me a greater sense of gratitude for the good, healthy days I do have and the time I have here.
Q:Do you do anything special now to maintain good health?
A: I’m not a vegetarian, but I do try to eat well. I know it’s good for my health to break a sweat three or four times a week. But those are two things I was frankly doing before I got the cancer. I was just lucky that I got a cancer that they know how to treat. They are relatively in the dark about what causes it. It’s just a number that I drew.
Q:You are an inspiration now to other cancer survivors.
A: I have been inclined to keep my health secret, but then I started going through the treatments. I was invited to some awards shows and had no eyebrows and no hair. I decided I should probably explain why that was the case. Now I’m so glad that I was forced to do that because it has been so gratifying to me to realize that my story has helped other people find inspiration that cancer can and does go into remission. Just look at me.
Q:Let’s sort of lighten up for a last question: Any chance of bringing “Dexter” back? Or a “Dexter” movie?
A: You know, I suppose it’s a possibility given that he’s still out there. But at this point, it’s hard for me to imagine anything that would be compelling enough to do with him. Of course, plotting Dexter has never been my job. If I was presented with something compelling, I’d consider playing Dexter again although I do want to take some time away from that world.
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