COLIN: At that time, Trooper Barrigan, who I now understand to have been Francis Costello's informer in SIU, intercepted us in the lobby and shot Trooper William Costigan once in the head. [drinks water] At that time Barrigan retrieved Trooper Costigan's undercover weapon and shot Trooper Brown as he was approaching our location. I attempted to subdue…
The Aftermath Statement — The Departed
Colin Sullivan delivers a calculated, false testimony to internal affairs regarding the shootout that resulted in the deaths of Billy Costigan and Trooper Brown. He carefully frames another mole to protect his own identity while maintaining a facade of heroism and professional respect.
Format: Duologue · Genre: Thriller · Source: The Departed · Author: William Monahan · Characters: Colin
About This Scene
This powerful duologue features Colin Sullivan delivering a meticulously crafted, false testimony to Internal Affairs. He recounts a fabricated version of a fatal shootout, cleverly shifting blame onto a deceased scapegoat to conceal his own involvement. The scene demands a high level of control and subtext, as Colin must convince his listeners of a lie while simultaneously navigating his inner turmoil and calculated deception.
Character Analysis
Colin is a master manipulator, presenting a facade of professionalism and duty while expertly weaving a narrative of betrayal and heroism that ultimately serves his own self-preservation. His every word is chosen for its impact, designed to deflect suspicion and cement his false image as a survivor and an upstanding officer. Beneath the composed exterior lies a ruthless individual driven by self-interest and a cold, strategic mind.
Why This Works for Auditions
This scene is excellent for auditions because it showcases an actor’s ability to handle complex emotional layers and deliver precise, controlled dialogue. The character's need to appear credible while conveying deep-seated deception offers a fantastic opportunity to display nuanced acting and strong subtextual work. It’s a minute-long powerhouse that allows for a wide range of choices within its concise structure.
Best Suited For
This scene is ideally suited for male actors aged 25-35 who can portray intelligence, authority, and cunning. It's particularly strong for those targeting "Leading Man," "Villain," "Authority Figure," "Anti-Hero," or "Lawyer" casting types. Actors who excel at roles requiring a blend of charisma and underlying menace will find this material particularly effective for self-tapes or agent showcases.
Performance Tips
Focus on Colin's unwavering composure and the subtle ways he projects sincerity, even as he lies. Pay close attention to his rhythm and pacing; there's a clinical precision to his recounting of events. The moment he looks up, "eyes clear, perfectly believable," is critical—ensure this shift feels genuine and impactful, revealing his mastery of deception without overplaying it. The recommendation for the Medal of Merit is the final, chilling touch, highlighting his calculated move to honor his victim while protecting himself.