Will Ferrell is such a humble guy that when he’s asked what it’s like to lead a big animated comedy like Megamind, the affable actor quickly diverts the attention.
“I don’t really consider myself front and centre of this fine cast,” said Ferrell before noticing a giant banner over his shoulder clearly focusing on the titular character. “So I guess I am front and centre.”
Indeed he is. Ferrell is the voice of Megamind, a blue-skinned supervillain that suddenly defeats his nemesis and finds himself in the unlikely role of public defender.
It may be his second animated feature (after Curious George), but the movie does mark a first for the funnyman.
“It’s the first time (my kids) have commented on something I’ve been in,” laughed Ferrell admitting his children didn’t necessarily affect his choice in the role.
“This was just kind of a decision based pretty much on wanting to try and do another animated movie and getting the chance to work with (director) Tom (McGrath) so my children were not consulted — nor are they ever consulted about anything. It’s a very strict household.”
Kidding aside, its obvious Ferrell had fun conjuring up the voice of an inept big-headed evildoer that hilariously mispronounces words like “school” — the result of much improvisation in the recording studio.
“There is a great amount of freedom in terms of getting to come up with stuff on the spot,” said Ferrell, who has considerable respect for the art.
“What’s lost on the project is how hard it is to articulate any emotional gearshift just with your voice. Playing the comedy is one thing but I think there’s a real skill for any of these actors that can effectively do that consistently.”
