FridayOL

Rafe Spall, the acclaimed British actor, is opening up about the profound impact Edgar Wright has had on his career. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Spall, 42, credits Wright’s visionary direction and the groundbreaking 'Three Flavours Cornetto' trilogy for providing a crucial early boost to his acting journey.

The 'Cornetto Trilogy' – comprised of 'Shaun of the Dead' (2004), 'Hot Fuzz' (2007), and 'The World's End' (2013) – is celebrated as a landmark achievement in British comedy, blending horror, action, and witty social commentary. While Spall wasn't a major character in all three films, his appearances, particularly in 'Hot Fuzz,' were memorable and helped solidify his presence on screen.

“Edgar Wright gave me a huge opportunity early on,” Spall shared. “Being involved in those films, especially 'Hot Fuzz,' was incredibly important for me. They were such a phenomenon, and to be a small part of that was fantastic.”

The trilogy’s success wasn’t just about the clever writing and sharp direction; it was also about the chemistry between the cast and the unique, playful tone that Wright cultivated. Spall described the atmosphere on set as energetic and collaborative, fostering a creative environment where actors felt comfortable taking risks.

“Edgar has such a clear vision, but he’s also incredibly open to ideas,” Spall explained. “He encourages improvisation and experimentation, which makes the whole process really exciting. It’s a very special thing to be a part of.”

Beyond the immediate boost to his career, Spall acknowledges the lasting impact the 'Cornetto Trilogy' has had on his work. He believes that the experience helped him develop as an actor, allowing him to explore different comedic styles and refine his performance skills.

“Working with Edgar taught me a lot about comedic timing and character development,” Spall stated. “He has a real gift for creating memorable characters and crafting hilarious situations. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity he gave me.”

Rafe Spall has since gone on to star in numerous critically acclaimed films and television shows, including 'Suffragette,' 'The Salisbury Poisonings,' and 'Slow Horses.' However, he remains appreciative of the role that Edgar Wright and the 'Cornetto Trilogy' played in shaping his career trajectory. The trilogy remains a beloved touchstone of British cinema, and Spall's recollections offer a glimpse into the creative process that made it so successful.

Spall’s comments underscore the importance of mentorship and opportunity in the entertainment industry. The 'Cornetto Trilogy' not only entertained audiences worldwide but also served as a launching pad for many talented individuals, including Rafe Spall, whose career continues to flourish thanks to the early support of a visionary filmmaker.