Lox Pratt is a name you’ll soon know. At just fourteen years old, this rising star is already captivating audiences with his nuanced portrayals of complex characters, and he’s only just begun.
Currently starring as Jack in the BBC’s adaptation of *Lord of the Flies*, Pratt isn’t simply revisiting a familiar villain. He’s determined to reveal the hidden depths beneath the surface, to show audiences a Jack far more intricate than the simple bully often portrayed.
This dedication to understanding the character’s motivations extends to his upcoming role as Draco Malfoy in HBO’s *Harry Potter* reboot. Pratt sees a similar complexity in both characters, a vulnerability masked by arrogance, offering him a unique opportunity to explore the human condition through iconic roles.
The adaptation of Golding’s classic novel plunges a group of schoolboys into a desperate fight for survival on a deserted island. Pratt’s Jack isn’t merely a troublemaker; he’s a figure who offers a compelling alternative to the established order, transforming a terrifying situation into a thrilling adventure.
He meticulously studied charismatic villains from other iconic works – Tommy Shelby from *Peaky Blinders* and Malcolm McDowell in *If…* – seeking inspiration for portraying the swagger and interiority he believed essential to the role. He wanted to capture the “sparkle and charisma” Jack possesses in Jack Thorne’s script.
Filming on the lush island of Langkawi, Malaysia, presented its own challenges. The five-month shoot was immersed in a vibrant, sometimes unsettling, natural world teeming with wildlife. It was a world that resonated with Pratt, a Cornwall native who grew up by the sea.
Director Marc Munden fostered a collaborative environment, pushing Pratt to explore the character’s confidence and arrogance. A unique warm-up exercise – a playful challenge of leadership – helped Pratt embody Jack’s assertive nature and unlock the character’s core.
One particularly demanding scene involved Jack’s emotional breakdown after being labeled a “failure.” Pratt credits his acting coach with helping him navigate the vulnerability required, revealing a hidden layer of pain beneath the character’s tough exterior. He hopes audiences will see this new dimension.
Pratt also highlights the poignant relationship between Jack and Simon, calling it “one of the saddest and most striking parts of the whole adaptation.” He wants viewers to understand that *Lord of the Flies* isn’t a simple tale of good versus evil, but a complex exploration of human nature.
Looking ahead, Pratt is already envisioning a future behind the camera, inspired by filmmakers like James Cameron and Chloe Zhao. But for now, he’s fully immersed in bringing Draco Malfoy to life, excited to delve into the character’s backstory and expand upon the world of *Harry Potter* over eight seasons.
He hints at glimpses into Draco’s past, offering a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped him. With Lox Pratt at the helm, these beloved – and often misunderstood – characters are being reimagined for a new generation, revealing layers of complexity previously unseen.
