Andy Serkis Reveals the One Film He Can Watch Endlessly

Andy Serkis has left a lasting mark on Hollywood, redefining what’s possible with motion-capture technology. While most fans know him for his iconic roles in fantasy and sci-fi blockbusters, his appreciation for cinema goes far beyond those genres. As he prepares to return as Gollum in a new Lord of the Rings prequel, Serkis continues to prove he’s more than just a performer—he’s a filmmaker with a wide-ranging vision.

Over the past decade, Serkis has taken on a variety of creative roles. He worked behind the scenes on Peter Jackson’s epic films, guiding other actors in the Planet of the Apes series, and even stepped into the director ’s chair. His Netflix project, Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle, offered a darker spin on The Jungle Book, but unfortunately, it was overshadowed by Disney ’s big-budget remake, which dominated the box office. Despite the challenges, Serkis has shown he’s willing to take risks and defy expectations.

Breaking the Mold as a Director

Serkis’s directorial choices reveal a desire to explore stories outside the realm of visual effects. He surprised audiences with Breathe, a moving period drama starring Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy, proving he’s not afraid to tackle emotional, character-driven narratives. His take on Venom: Let There Be Carnage brought a wild, comedic energy to the superhero genre, while his animated adaptation of Animal Farm showed his interest in creating films for younger viewers. Though critical acclaim has sometimes eluded him, Serkis’s willingness to experiment sets him apart in the industry.

The Film That Inspires Him Most

When asked which movie he could watch over and over, Serkis didn’t choose a blockbuster or a special effects showcase. Instead, he named The Piano, Jane Campion’s Oscar- winning period drama.

“She’s an amazing director. I love it. I absolutely adore that film,”

he said. Released in 1993, The Piano stars Holly Hunter as a mute woman who journeys to New Zealand with her daughter, played by Anna Paquin. Both actresses won Academy Awards for their performances, and Campion made history as one of the first women nominated for Best Director. Although she lost to Steven Spielberg that year, Campion took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

Admiring Visionary Filmmakers

Campion’s success helped shine a spotlight on New Zealand’s film industry and inspired a new generation of storytellers. Her path isn’t so different from Peter Jackson’s, another New Zealand director who became one of Serkis’s closest collaborators. By looking up to filmmakers like Campion and Jackson, Serkis shows he values bold, personal storytelling and the power of creative risk-taking. If he continues to follow their lead, his future behind the camera could be just as remarkable as his work in front of it.