The highly anticipated film, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, has arrived in theaters, reuniting two prominent figures in horror cinema: Matthew Lillard and Skeet Ulrich. Lillard reprises his role as the notorious William Afton, a character he portrayed in the first installment of the franchise. Although his screen presence is less pronounced in this sequel, Ulrich steps into the narrative as Henry, the father of one of Afton’s early victims and his former business partner in the founding of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza.
This collaboration marks a significant moment for fans of the horror genre, as Lillard and Ulrich previously starred together in the cult classic, Scream. Their chemistry from the original film resonates, even if they do not share screen time in this new project. Lillard expressed his enthusiasm to Polygon, stating, “I see him all the time. We do conventions a bunch every year, so when we go away on those weekends, we eat every meal together. He’s one of my best friends in the world.”
As the story unfolds, Ulrich’s character is revealed to have crucial ties to the overarching narrative, a twist that is not disclosed until the film’s closing credits. This revelation sets the stage for potential future developments, particularly in the event of a third installment. Lillard is optimistic about the possibility, suggesting that a deeper exploration of the relationship between Afton and Henry could take place in subsequent films. “If this weekend goes the way we’re all hoping it goes, they’ll do a third film,” he said, reflecting on the franchise’s future.
Despite the film’s mixed reviews, with some critics labeling it disappointing, Ulrich’s performance has garnered praise. Lillard emphasized the importance of respecting fan expectations, especially in a franchise that has cultivated a dedicated following over the years. “We both care deeply about fandoms,” he remarked, highlighting their commitment to engaging with the community surrounding both Scream and Five Nights at Freddy’s.
Lillard’s portrayal of Afton is particularly notable, as he embodies a character that fans have admired for nearly two decades. He acknowledged the weight of stepping into such a revered role, stating, “It’s a standing piece of legacy that as an actor you’re proud of.” While Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 is currently in theaters, audiences are left eagerly awaiting news on a third film and how the narrative may evolve.
As the film’s release continues to unfold, Lillard remains poised for the next chapter in his journey with the Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise. “Playing an iconic character for a fanbase that’s as voracious as the FNAF fanbase is a gift,” he concluded, encapsulating the excitement surrounding the film’s launch and the potential for future storytelling within this expansive universe.