The new movie “Fantasy Island,” directed by Jeff Wadlow and starring Lucy Hale, is sure to thrill audiences. After its premiere on Valentine’s Day, this cinematic remake of Gene Levitt’s classic 1977-1984 television series is sure to keep audiences guessing. 

“Fantasy Island” is about a tropical island where people’s dreams can come true, but the unlucky participants soon learn there is more to the island than it seems. 

The Clarion was able to interview director Jeff Wadlow and actor Lucy Hale about their roles in this movie.

In the interview, Wadlow explains why he chose to remake the popular TV show as a thriller movie. Wadlow said he had an idea for a movie loosely based on “Fantasy Island,” but when he talked to producer Jason Blum, Blum had a different proposal. 

Wadlow said that Blum told him “Why do something inspired by ‘Fantasy Island’? Let’s just do ‘Fantasy Island’.” 

Blum and Wadlow had recently finished up filming the 2018 thriller “Truth or Dare,” so when casting for “Fantasy Island” they immediately thought of Lucy Hale, who had worked closely with them as a main role. 

Wadlow raved about Hale’s acting ability and dedication to the craft saying, “[She] is just a brilliant artist… [she] has a really profound ability to connect with an audience.”

Wadlow explained what makes Lucy stand out as an actor—she is constantly thinking about the audience and creating the ideal performance for them. 

“She understands the dance between the audience and the camera,” said Wadlow.

When casting, Wadlow looks for people who will make the part their own and create a realistic character. He wants actors who will bring interesting and original pieces to the role.

“I don’t want to tell you what to do. I want to tell you what I’m trying to do and then I want you to play with me,” said Wadlow. 

Lucy Hale is a 30-year-old American actress who made a name for herself playing a key role in the hit ABC drama “Pretty Little Liars” (PLL). Reflecting on her days in PLL, Hale explained how the show has helped advance her career in movies today. 

“There were so many thriller aspects of that show that definitely prepared me for ‘Truth or Dare’ or ‘Fantasy Island,’” said Hale. 

Hale said that even though all of the characters she has played have been drastically different, she definitely “has her horror face down.”

In the movie, Hale plays Melanie, one of the island’s visitors whose dream is to torture a childhood bully. While explaining how she got into character for the role, Lucy explains some of the trials of being Melanie. 

“Our moral compasses are so different. Accepting the things she was doing and saying was the biggest challenge for me,” said Hale. 

Coupling with the stark differences in beliefs between Hale and Melanie, Hale explains how her character was different than any other roles she has played.

“She is very complex and weird and damaged and tormented,” said Hale. 

While describing the production, Hale discusses some of the struggles of filming in a new place in a different environment than the cast was used to. Hale explains how this new climate coupled with the tropical buggy environment made it tricky.  

“We’re trying to dodge rainstorms and we’re hiking up mountains,” said Hale.

Wadlow’s and Hale’s dedication to their craft is clear from this interview, and “Fantasy Island” is sure to have talented acting and a dynamic plot.