IN CONVERSATION WITH JOE FREEMAN

interview JANA LETONJA

Joe Freeman is making a powerful on-screen debut as the lead in ‘The Institute’, MGM’s chilling adaptation of Stephen King’s bestselling novel, now streaming on Amazon Prime. Starring as teen genius Luke Ellis, Joe steps into a mysterious world of psychic kids, dark experiments, and high-stakes survival. The British newcomer, and son of actors Martin Freeman and Amanda Abbington, brings depth and quiet intensity to his breakout role, marking him as one to watch in the world of genre storytelling.

full look DUNHILL FW25


‘The Institute’ is your first on-screen project, and you’re leading a Stephen King adaptation. What was your first reaction when you landed the role of Luke Ellis?

I was watching ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ in the cinema when my agent called with the news. I ran out mid-film. It was the best, shortest phone call of my life.

Luke is a complex character, a teen genius grappling with isolation, fear, and power. How did you prepare to step into his mind?

I studied young geniuses on sites like National Geographic, mimicking their mannerisms while keeping my performance engaging and authentic.


What was it like filming those early scenes where Luke wakes up in the institute? 

Having seen the sets before, I wasn’t surprised by their look. My focus was staying calm and managing nerves, as it was the first time the institute appeared on screen.

jacket, waistcoat and trousers PRADA FW25

boots DSQUARED2 FW25

The show touches on themes of manipulation, freedom, and resilience. What do you hope viewers take away from Luke’s journey?

I hope audiences feel the intense, traumatic experience Luke and the other kids endured, imagining how grueling it would be if real.

Stephen King characters often have a psychological richness. How much freedom did you have in shaping your version of Luke?

Working with three directors — Jeff, Brad, and Jack — was incredible. Each brought unique strengths, guiding me while allowing creative freedom, especially as filming progressed.

Horror-thriller projects can be emotionally and mentally draining. How did you take care of yourself on set?

The crew was amazing, keeping things grounded during tough scenes like the testing sequences. By the end of day one, I felt like part of the family, making my job feel like one of the easiest on set.

This is your first acting role, and you’re already front and center in a major series. How does that feel?

Being part of this project straight out of secondary school is unreal. I never imagined this opportunity and feel incredibly privileged to contribute.

shirt, jacket and trousers BRUNELLO CUCINELLI FW25

shoes DSQUARED2 FW25

Did growing up around film and theatre shape how you approached this project, or did you try to carve your own path entirely?

My performance is my own craft, though having parents in the industry offers helpful feedback. Most of what you see on screen is my work.

Are there any genres, directors, or roles you’re hoping to explore now that you’ve made your debut?

I love this genre, but want to explore drama or indie projects, inspired by filmmakers like Shane Meadows and Danny and Michael Philippou.


How do you stay grounded, especially with such a high-profile first role?

I don’t focus on the scale of a project, I just love acting. It’s about the craft, not the size of the role.


What’s something about you most people wouldn’t guess — a hidden talent or hobby?

I boxed for a couple of years, but my grandmother wasn’t thrilled about me getting hit. It wasn’t my favorite either, so I switched to acting.



CREDITS

photography DAVID REISS 

styling KEELEY DAWSON at STELLA CREATIVE

grooming PAUL DONOVAN using PATRICKS

Previous
Previous

IN CONVERSATION WITH ANDRÉ STOLLE

Next
Next

IN CONVERSATION WITH TOBY WALLACE