In a dark van, a cold interrogator named Dunham uses a sadistic game of 'Two Lies and a Truth' to torture information out of a captive known as The Turk. The stakes escalate from personal trivia to a shocking revelation about a target Dunham believed was already dead.
DUNHAM: Two lies and a truth.
THE TURK: Huh? What?
DUNHAM: It's a game I used to play with -- Charlie wasn't very good at it, I could always pick out his lie. The game is you say three statements -- two are lies, one is true -- and I have to guess which is which.
THE TURK: Who are you? You're not VoPo.
DUNHAM: Two lies and a truth.
Format: Duologue · Genre: Spy Thriller · Source: Berliner · Author: Unknown · Characters: Dunham, The Turk
This intense duologue, "The Interrogation Game" from the film Berliner, plunges into a brutal interrogation in a dark van. Dunham, a cold and calculated interrogator, forces a captive named The Turk to play a sadistic version of 'Two Lies and a Truth.' What begins as a twisted game focusing on personal details quickly escalates, leading to a shocking revelation that challenges Dunham's understanding of a past target.
Dunham is a meticulous, cruel, and highly experienced interrogator, likely with a background that has desensitized him to torture. He exhibits a calculating nature, using psychological manipulation and physical pain methodically to extract information. His actions suggest a history of dealing with deception, making him exceptionally good at deciphering lies, and he possesses a chilling resolve. The Turk is a captive enduring immense pain, yet he possesses an underlying resilience or a desperate secret that fuels his endurance.
This scene is an excellent choice for demonstrating a wide range of intense emotions and character depths, particularly for actors specializing in gritty or villainous roles. It provides a superb opportunity to showcase control over menace, vulnerability, and the intricate dynamics of power. The duration is perfect for a concise yet impactful audition, allowing actors to make a strong impression in a limited timeframe.
"The Interrogation Game" is ideally suited for male actors in the 30-50 age range who are looking to portray characters with a dark edge. It's particularly effective for those auditioning for roles as villains, anti-heroes, or intense, gritty individuals. The scene allows actors to explore themes of betrayal, suspense, and mystery, making it appropriate for a variety of spy thriller or crime drama casting calls.
Actors portraying Dunham should focus on a chilling sense of control and a calculated demeanor, ensuring that every action, even the brutal ones, feels intentional rather than impulsive. For The Turk, the challenge lies in conveying extreme pain and fear while also hinting at a hidden strength or a crucial secret that he is fighting to protect. Pay close attention to the escalating stakes and the shifts in power dynamics, allowing the intensity to build organically throughout the scene.