Dacre Montgomery, best known for his role as Billy Hargrove in Netflix’s smash hit Stranger Things, is diving headfirst into a new and deeply personal project: the gothic horror film Went Up the Hill. What makes this role particularly special for the actor? It's his first time portraying an Australian character, a chance to connect with his heritage and explore a genre he’s long been passionate about.

“From the moment the script first landed in my lap, I was hooked,” Montgomery shared in a recent interview. “It was a gothic horror, co-starring the incredible Vicky Krieps (Phantom Thread), and the premise of two mutually haunted characters just resonated with me immediately.” The excitement was palpable; he recounted an enthusiastic phone call to his mother, both overcome with emotion upon reading the script. “We jumped on the bed, I called my mum, and we were both just bawling at… well, the sheer brilliance of it all!”

Went Up the Hill promises a chilling and atmospheric experience, drawing inspiration from the rich tradition of gothic literature and cinema. Montgomery’s character, though details remain closely guarded, is integral to the film's central mystery. Krieps, known for her captivating and nuanced performances, plays a complex woman grappling with a troubled past and a growing sense of unease within a grand, isolated estate.

The film's setting itself is a character, a sprawling and imposing estate shrouded in secrets and steeped in history. Montgomery spoke of the challenge and privilege of inhabiting such a space, describing the location as “a living, breathing entity.” He emphasized the importance of collaborating with Krieps to build a believable and compelling relationship between their characters, navigating the complexities of shared trauma and unspoken truths.

For Montgomery, Went Up the Hill represents more than just a new role; it's a homecoming of sorts. The opportunity to embrace his Australian identity on screen is deeply meaningful, allowing him to explore a side of himself that hasn't been fully realised in previous projects. It's a chance to showcase the depth and versatility of his acting abilities while connecting with a broader audience on a more personal level.

“It’s such a unique and powerful story, and I’m incredibly excited for audiences to experience it,” Montgomery concluded. With a talented cast, a gripping premise, and a director with a clear vision, Went Up the Hill is poised to become a standout in the gothic horror genre, and a significant milestone in Dacre Montgomery’s burgeoning career. Keep an eye out for this haunting tale – it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.