Richard Brake on Twisted Pinocchio: Game of Thrones & Batman Begins

The Twisted Tale: Richard Brake on Stepping into Geppetto’s Shadow for Pinocchio Unstrung

The world of cinema is currently buzzing with news about Pinocchio Unstrung, a chilling reimagining of the classic fable set inside an elite London prep school. As anticipation builds for its release on July 24, 2026, star Richard Brake, who plays Geppetto, has opened up about the unique journey of bringing this twisted vision to life, offering fascinating insights into the craft of horror filmmaking and character portrayal.

Brake discussed the specific challenge of embodying Geppetto, a character steeped in history. While many recognize the Disney version, Brake emphasized that his interpretation aimed for something entirely different—a role with a “slightly twisted motivation.” He found joy in adding a darker layer to the caring grandfather figure, successfully injecting a subtle psychological tension into the narrative.

The production process itself provided a masterclass in immersive acting. Filming involved interacting directly with the actual animatronic puppet Pinocchio throughout the shoot. This tactile experience was invaluable, especially for the young actors involved who had limited experience working against physical props. Brake noted how crucial having a tangible object to act against proved much more effective than acting against purely digital creations.

He praised the young cast, particularly Cameron Bell, whose performance as Pinocchio was highly impressive. Brake highlighted that Bell brought a level of professionalism, focus, and openness to learning that set him apart. This dedication paid off, resulting in a truly captivating portrayal amidst what was described as a long and demanding shoot.

Beyond the technical aspects of filming, the core emotional appeal of the story resonated deeply with Brake. Despite the violent nature of the narrative, he insisted that the film preserves the inherent sadness and innocence central to the original Pinocchio story. “The whole Pinocchio story is really sad,” he reflected, acknowledging the beautiful, fragile soul that remains beneath the unsettling events.

Brake credited the filmmakers, Rhys and Scott, for successfully managing this delicate balance. He expressed gratitude for their vision, noting how they managed to capture the authentic emotional core of the characters while pushing the narrative into darker territory. This commitment to preserving innocence amidst horror was a key element that appealed to him.

Reflecting on the creative drive of the team, Brake pointed to the impressive trajectory of the director, Rhys, who has consistently demonstrated an incredible ability to refine his craft. He admired how the team persevered, learning and evolving through their process—a journey reminiscent of those who taught themselves filmmaking before achieving success.

The experience also offered a unique perspective on cinematic history, as Brake drew parallels between his work and monumental figures like Christopher Nolan and the legacy of Game of Thrones. He appreciated the calm, collected vision displayed by directors who manage to guide massive artistic undertakings toward their ultimate goals, underscoring the powerful dedication required to craft a masterpiece.