Exclusive Insights: Exploring Exciting New Vampire Dynamics & Deepening Backstories in What We Do in the Shadows Season 5

Experience the much-anticipated return of everyone's beloved vampire family as What We Do in the Shadows season 5 unveils a thrilling new chapter. In this installment, Guillermo finds himself grappling with a secret transformation into a vampire, while Colin Robinson ventures into the realm of politics and Nadja embarks on a journey to reconnect with her roots within the local community.

Returning to the forefront are Kayvan Novak, Natasia Demetriou, Matt Berry, Harvey Guillén, and Mark Proksch, along with the promotion of Kristen Schaal to a series regular. Brimming with intense dynamics among the core characters, uproarious escapades, and an expanded vampire universe, the show continues to captivate with its unwavering excitement.

Novak, Demetriou & Proksch Talk What We Do in the Shadows Season 5

Screen Rant: Season 5 continues the franchise's unbeatable winning streak. Mark, it's fascinating to witness Colin Robinson's complete transformation and growth while maintaining his mundane essence, returning to where we initially encountered him. How does it feel for you to reprise the role of adult Colin Robinson, in contrast to the youthful versions we witnessed in season 4?

Mark Proksch expressed his enjoyment and gratitude for being back and having the opportunity to work with his friends and fellow actors. He mentioned rediscovering his character and deliberately portraying him as slightly eccentric and not quite at his best in the current season. While he admitted that his choices as an actor usually don't succeed, he still found the experience enjoyable and had a great time goofing around with his colleagues. In my opinion, his choices were successful and it was delightful to see them.

Natasia Demetriou expressed how overwhelming it was for them to have Mark return, with a hint of amusement in her laughter.

Kayvan, I appreciate the fresh dynamic that unfolds between you and Guillermo throughout the season as they gradually grow apart. How was it for you to delve into that storyline, both with Harvey's presence and in his absence, considering you were separated for a significant portion of the initial four episodes?

Kayvan Novak: Thank you for noticing the subtle changes in our dynamic. It's hard to gauge the impact on the audience while performing the episodes, as it happens gradually. For Nandor, existing without Guillermo's attention and love is a new and challenging experience.

This season, Nandor isn't going on a self-discovery journey like in "Eat Pray Love". He's simply trying to get through each day without something important to him, something he can't openly acknowledge because he doesn't want Guillermo to realize he actually cares. So, he's just going with the flow and finding ways to have fun, like going to space.

Natasia Demetriou: To cope.

Kayvan Novak: Yeah, as a coping mechanism, goes to outer space.

The moment when I saw it come to life was truly unforgettable. I couldn't stop laughing during the whole process. However, I'm incredibly eager to see how this dynamic unfolds in the upcoming episodes. Natasia, I must say that witnessing you discover your roots throughout the season has been absolutely amazing. It's also intriguing to see how Laszlo tries to be a part of it. Can you share your experience of exploring this aspect of your character and developing a new dynamic with Matt?

The unique and amazing aspect of our show is the extensive life history of our characters. It's fascinating to discover new details about their past, like the Colin Robinson storyline where he stores all his files. These additions truly enhance the world we've built and emphasize the fact that the characters have existed for many years.

I'm a huge fan of anything that adds to the originality of the show. Additionally, having Matt join the cast is perfect because, in the storyline, the Greek people are quite tribal and tend to be hesitant about outsiders. Interestingly, I believe Matt Berry resembles a Greek man more than most Greek men do. His appearance really suits this storyline and I believe he could easily fit into many Mediterranean families. That hair!

The portrayal of his hair and beard is absolutely perfect! Building on what you mentioned, I truly appreciate the continuous development of the world and the opportunity to delve into the rich backstories of each character. How much creative input do you have in exploring your respective backstories throughout the show?

Natasia Demetriou: The writers have shown great sensitivity and insight. I never explicitly asked for an episode where Nadja is revealed to be Greek, but throughout the early seasons and even during my audition, my Greek heritage was discussed. Although Nadja's Greek origins may not have been initially planned, the collaborative nature of the team allows for organic exploration and integration of such suggestions into the character's narrative.

I believe it's about collaboration and their genuine interest in observing us, listening to us, and truly caring about creating authentic characters. They have thoroughly explored Kayvan's ability to speak Farsi and his Iranian-Persian heritage, as well as Mark's distinct Midwestern background, despite his lack of hair. [Laughs]

Mark Proksch: I knew there was no chance she wouldn't be able to insult me, even unintentionally, with that. [Chuckles]

I really appreciate the increased screen time for Nandor and Laszlo, Kayvan. It's been such a delight to witness their evolving relationship in recent episodes. I must say, playing off of each other has been incredibly enjoyable, even in something as simple as the episode opener where we tested the microphones and indulged in our usual bickering. Exploring this dynamic further has been an absolute joy.

In the Nandor-Laszlo dynamic, I often feel like his second wife, constantly nagging and bickering. Laszlo has the freedom to do whatever he wants, and that's one of the best things about his character. Matt portrays it so beautifully that you can't help but want to live your life like him. On the other hand, Nandor is a bit slower to catch on because he believes in being a goody two shoes in that dynamic.

Unlike Nandor, Lazslo is straightforward and assertive, always saying, "Shut the f--k up, this is how we're going to do it." But that's what makes their interaction so great - the way they play off each other and adapt to different scenes. When I'm with Colin Robinson, I tend to be more demanding and boss him around, something I would never do with Nadja or Laszlo. Mark might disagree with me, thinking he's the one in control in that scene. "[Laughs] [As Nandor] Let me tell you, Colin Robinson, I'm telling you what to do."

Mark Proksch: It's been interesting to see how the interpersonal dynamics between the characters have developed throughout the seasons. For example, I've really come to understand how Colin Robinson interacts with Nadja, and that dynamic adds so much more enjoyment to the role. It's not just a matter of saying our lines, but actually exploring these relationships.

Speaking of dynamics, the body swap episode was absolutely hilarious. I was thrilled to see Kristen Schaal play a larger role in the season, especially in that episode. Mark and Natasia, what were your initial reactions when you received the script and realized what the story had in store for both of you?

Natasia Demetriou expressed her excitement about the funny script and the positive feedback the episode has received. Initially, she doubted that they would be able to film the episode due to the extensive content. However, they were able to successfully film it, even including a scene where Kayvan goes to space.

Regarding the body swapping scenes with Mark, Natasia thought it would involve CGI or green screen techniques. However, she was surprised to find that she had a rubber version of Mark's face attached to the back of her head, while Mark had her body and arms. His arms were painted green to create the illusion that her arms were moving backwards. Natasia took many selfies during this unusual experience and captured backstage photos to document the madness of it all.

Those sound like priceless mementos to have! Mark, what was it like when you saw the script before filming all of that?

Mark Proksch: This script is definitely one of our strongest ones, or at least it's one of my personal favorites. We've had a lot of exceptional scripts, so it's hard to say which is the absolute best. Whenever I get to engage in unconventional activities like this, I truly enjoy it because I'm not a fan of exerting too much effort as an actor. So, if I have the opportunity to wear a crazy outfit and indulge in some singing, count me in! It's a delightful experience, and being funny doesn't require a significant amount of effort on my part. [Laughs]

Natasia Demetriou: Moreover, including Charmaine and Sean (played by Anthony Atamanuik and Marissa Jaret Winokur) in the show always elevates the comedic value. Their dynamic alongside ours is simply absurd and hilarious. Therefore, their presence in that episode adds another fantastic element to it, in my opinion.

This duo strongly reminds me of the dynamic between Jenny Slate and Ben Schwartz in Parks and Recreation. I am delighted whenever they make an appearance on the show. Natasia, how does it feel to portray a character who essentially embodies a doll version of yourself throughout the entire series? How does one adequately prepare for such a unique role?

Natasia Demetriou expresses the enjoyment of having another comedic element in the show. Despite the unlikely combination of characters living together, being friends, and being family, it is intriguing. The addition of a doll possessed by a ghost adds to the chaotic but delightful atmosphere. Sitting in a room, watching the puppeteer manipulate the doll and hearing everyone's conversation feels absurdly fascinating. Rather than feeling excessive, it seems perfectly normal in this unique world. Even when someone wants to sit in a chair occupied by the doll, it is easily accepted without surprise or hesitation.

The puppeteers and workshop team have done a remarkable job in making the character feel completely distinct from the actress. I have a deep admiration for their talent. It's rather amusing, but I genuinely love working with the puppet, as if it were a cute little bear or dog that I can play with on set. It brings me such joy. [Chuckles]

In all honesty, working with the doll is much more enjoyable for the rest of us than working with Natasia herself, and that is definitely a positive aspect. [Laughs]

About What We Do in the Shadows Season 5

In season 5, Nandor becomes concerned as his familiar, Guillermo, starts to spend more time with Laszlo. Guillermo's unusual behavior prompts Laszlo, a gentleman scientist, to investigate the mysterious changes happening to Guillermo. Meanwhile, Nadja, affected by an unknown supernatural hex, reconnects with a family from the Old Country, Colin decides to pursue a political career as an energy vampire, and The Guide, a recent addition to the group, struggles to find her place among the long-standing members.

Check out our other interview with Harvey Guillén and Kristen Schaal as well.

New episodes of What We Do in the Shadows season 5 air Thursdays on FX at 10 p.m. EST and Hulu the following day.

Source: Screen Rant Plus