British actor Tom Francis discussed his role in director Peter Berg’s new film “The Mosquito Bowl,” a World War II drama based on true events. Francis plays David Schreiner, one of four college football stars who served in the Marines during the war. The ensemble cast also includes Nicholas Galitzine, Ray Nicholson, and Bill Skarsgård.
Francis indicated that working with Berg had been a longtime goal. Upon signing with CAA, he sent his agents a list of preferred directors, with Berg at the top due to his admiration for the director’s work on “Friday Night Lights.” Francis praised Berg’s collaborative approach and described him as open, warm, and supportive.
One notable aspect of the production involved the addition of a singing scene. Though the real-life David Schreiner was not a singer, Berg decided to incorporate Francis’ vocal abilities into the film. Francis recalled receiving the song from Berg with minimal notice, initially uncertain about how it would be used in the final product.
The film takes an unflinching approach to depicting the realities of World War II combat. Cinematographer Jacques Jouffret made deliberate creative choices to avoid romanticizing the conflict, including setting constructed palm trees on fire rather than filming them to maintain visual authenticity. Francis characterized the resulting battle sequences as visceral and intense, noting they effectively conveyed the gravity of what soldiers experienced.
Francis brings extensive stage credentials to the role, having earned a Laurence Olivier Award and Tony nomination for his Broadway debut in “Sunset Boulevard.” He has also appeared in productions of “Rent,” “& Juliet,” and “Hair.” His screen work includes appearances in Noah Baumbach’s “Jay Kelly” and Netflix’s “You.” Looking forward, Francis expressed interest in returning to theater with original material rather than revivals. “The Mosquito Bowl” is currently in theaters and will premiere on Netflix later this month.
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