Exclusive Insights on Collaborating with Idris Elba & Exciting Prospects for a Season 2: An Interview with Hijack EP Hakan Kousetta

Warning: SPOILERS for Hijack season 1 finale!

Summary

EP Hakan Kousetta commends Idris Elba's outstanding performance and captivating presence while collaborating on the exhilarating series Hijack. Kousetta further reveals that the intriguing plot twists in the show were inspired by lead writer George Kay's determination to maintain the story's dynamic energy and relentless momentum.

Having Sam confront the main antagonist in the finale was a crucial decision in order to resolve the emotional journey of the characters and deliver a satisfying conclusion to the story.

In the gripping tale of "Hijack," we witness the skilled corporate negotiator, Sam Nelson, embarking on a tense seven-hour flight from Dubai to London, only to find himself and the other passengers at the mercy of a group of dangerous criminals. As the hijackers take control of the plane, Sam must utilize his expertise in negotiation to ensure the safety of everyone on board, while simultaneously devising strategies to regain control of the aircraft. Nonetheless, as the flight draws closer to its destination, unsettling doubts arise regarding the motives of the hijackers and the true extent of passenger involvement.

Hijack, an action thriller series, stars Idris Elba, who is also an executive producer. The show was created by George Kay and Jim Field Smith and features an ensemble cast including Archie Panjabi, Christine Adams, Max Beesley, Eve Myles, Neil Maskell, Kate Phillips, and Jasper Britton. During the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, this piece acknowledges the importance of the labor of the writers and actors in both unions. Screen Rant recently interviewed executive producer Hakan Kousetta, who discussed the Hijack finale, Sam's decision to reboard the plane, and the impact that Elba had on the role. Kousetta also expressed his interest in exploring the possibility of a second season for Hijack.

Hakan Kousetta Talks Hijack

Screen Rant: I am captivated by the show! Each time I tune in, I am filled with anticipation, despite already being familiar with the storyline. It is truly extraordinary.

Hakan Kousetta: Excellent! I'm delighted to hear that you have such a strong affection for it. That's fantastic. Have you completed the entire series? Have you managed to watch every episode?

I've watched the content a few times already. Initially, I viewed the screeners when we received them in advance, and now I've been following it week by week as new episodes are released.

Hakan Kousetta: That's great to hear. I've been doing the same thing with my family. It's quite surprising how even after watching it about a hundred times, there are still moments that capture my attention due to the complexity and the energy it exudes. It's also incredibly funny. In fact, we have a family screening scheduled for seven tonight. So, I'm really excited about that.

That is absolutely amazing! I'm absolutely fascinated by it. Can you please share your experience working with Idris Elba, both as the lead of the series and as a producer?

Hakan Kousetta: He is truly a remarkable individual. Working with him has been an absolute delight. He joined the project at a very early stage, during the development phase. When it was in its infancy, George Kay and Jim Field Smith came up with the initial concept - just a one-page idea about a hijacked plane and a central character who cleverly outwits the hijackers in a subtly mysterious manner. It was one of those instances where you instantly grasp the brilliance of the vision.

Apple introduced us to Jim and George and suggested that we collaborate on this exciting idea. However, due to the lockdown restrictions, we were unable to physically meet, especially in enclosed spaces. Instead, we would meet in the park, walking for miles and miles around London parks while discussing the show. Eventually, as the show started to take shape, Apple facilitated the introduction of Idris to the project through their deal with Green Door. They believed that this could be something that would interest him, and after reading the material, he instantly understood its potential and expressed his enthusiasm. Idris came on board early in the process, making it a wonderful collaborative experience to develop the show and ultimately film it. He proved to be an excellent partner.

The show boasts a plethora of captivating twists. The revelation behind the hijackers' motives was exceptionally mind-blowing, and the presence of inside men on the plane only added to the intrigue. What influenced the creation of these surprising turns of events that sprinkle the series?

Hakan Kousetta: George, the lead writer, always aimed to maintain a strong narrative drive in the show. It was important to him to keep the story's energy flowing smoothly. However, crafting a show like this presented numerous challenges because it spans seven hours and unfolds in real time. If I were to tell you, "You have to spend seven hours with us on a plane," you might groan in boredom. It could easily become monotonous. Right? The task itself is quite daunting.

But I would describe George as a masterful Swiss clockmaker. He excels at assembling intricate elements that come together seamlessly and function brilliantly. One of those elements in the show was the constant element of surprise. In each chapter of the story, there would always be unexpected shocks and surprises that you could not have predicted.

The captivating and thrilling aspect lies in the fact that you are immersed with Idris in those moments. Suddenly, you find yourself alongside the protagonist, experiencing a complete shift in expectations. It's like a strategic chess move - at every turn, there's a surprising new development that needs to be handled. It's this continuous momentum that keeps the story engaging and surprising for the audience, without frustrating or belittling them. Instead of pulling the rug out from under them, it's a thrilling surprise that keeps them hooked.

I found it to be fantastic. One of my favorite moments in the finale is when Sam returns to the plane. So, what was the significance of having him confront his final challenge instead of negotiating for a safe landing?

Hakan Kousetta: There was a lot of discussion surrounding this aspect of the story. It was a difficult decision on how to conclude the narrative. This is often the case with shows that have a defined ending. Our consensus was that after going through such an emotional journey with the characters, as you witnessed in the show, there was a strong emotional connection. Additionally, the tension was high as we approached the nail-biting moment of the clanding, which is not quite a crash but not a smooth landing either.

You have this horrifying moment, and it would feel incomplete if Sam's character didn't confront Neil's character in a final showdown. It is essential to address this aspect because they embark on an emotional journey together, filled with intense negative undertones. This resolution not only addresses their relationship, but also ties up the loose ends of what happens to the passengers on the plane.

It was undeniably a gratifying and significant moment, filled with a sense of fulfillment. I found it incredibly enjoyable.

Hakan Kousetta: Absolutely, he successfully accomplished it. It gave a sense of completion. It was necessary for that to happen, otherwise it would have ended as soon as we landed and disembarked. There was more substance to it.

Yes, I fully agree. What did Idris bring to Sam's role that wasn't initially conveyed in the script?

Hakan Kousetta: Well, it's quite clear. His presence is extremely magnetic and he's incredibly captivating. The challenge of a role like this can be easily underestimated, as there are long sequences where he doesn't speak. Everything is conveyed through his facial expressions and his portrayal of the character. He does an amazing job in keeping the audience connected throughout the story, making us truly feel his anguish and uncertainty.

There's something incredibly refreshing about his approach. He's a throwback, a hero who doesn't need to rely on excessive talking or grandstanding. He simply commands attention with his presence and ingenuity, which I believe is a remarkable feat performed by Idris.

I completely agree. I was thoroughly impressed by how well you managed to balance the intense, action-packed moments with the incredible depth of the performances. It was truly one of the coolest aspects of the show. Although this series has come to an end, I'm curious to know if you would consider exploring similar high-stakes situations with different heroes in the future.

Hakan Kousetta: While I will never decline the possibility of a second season, ultimately, the decision lies with Apple. It would be best for you to direct that question to them. However, I can confirm that we are certainly open to the idea and eager for another season. Absolutely.

About Hijack

Amidst a hijacked plane journeying from Dubai to London, Sam Nelson, a skilled business negotiator renowned for his ability to achieve desired outcomes, assumes the role of taking charge and devising an escape plan. As the seven-hour flight unfolds, authorities on the ground feverishly scramble, seeking solutions, while Sam and fellow passengers employ every possible measure to ensure their survival and reclaim control over the aircraft.

Make sure to also check out our Hijack interview with Idris Elba.

All 7 episodes of Hijack are available on Apple+ now.

Source: Screen Rant Plus