Austin Powers in Goldmember: Interview

Review by Clint Morris

Interview with Michael York
Actor in Austin Powers trilogy.

Is Austin Powers in Goldmember the final straw for the illustrious super-agent of 60's cool? Quite possibly – but not if Mike Myers determined co-stars have anything to do with it. Returning for the third time as Basil Exposition is Michael York, and as he explains to Clint Morris, the series may be going out with a bang!

Basil Exposition makes a comeback

"I had such fun on the first two. It was an absolute pleasure to be involved with them," says York.

"This time we've got something bigger, better, very faithful to the previous films and [it's] a wonderful film."

Mike Myers has also won the praise of York. "He's great. He’s a lot more serious on-set than you might think though. But it's always a relaxed atmosphere to work in," says York.

"He's awesome. The part he plays in the writing, producing and just generally setting the tone is inspiring. (Director) Jay Roach is great to work with too. He and Mike work well together, very concentrated. They work ideas off of each other well."

There are some real surprises in store for fans of the series this time, says York. "I wasn't around when Steven Spielberg did his cameo. But I heard all about it. It should be great."

He adds, "I think people will love the storyline – Austin goes back time-traveling to London. It’s funny seeing him work for me."

York admits there's always a 007 gadget-man role up for grabs should he get typecast. "They've got John Cleese now, stepping in for Desmond Llewelyn, but there's a definite likeness."

Next up is something smaller for York. "I'm waiting to hear about an independent film, and whether the finance has come through for it," says York. "I'm also doing some recordings and I have a new book."

York's hoping we haven't seen the end of the Austin Powers films either. "Mike says it's a trilogy but I'll believe it when I see it. He always says that and comes back a couple of years later with an idea for another time," says York.

And what about the chances of seeing Basil down under? "I would love to come back there and do a film," says York. "I did The Far Country there many years ago. It was wonderful. I did it with Sigrid Thornton, and we filmed it in the lovely Apollo Bay. I loved that story. I loved the character. I would welcome a return to Australia."

Austin Powers in Goldmember commences in Australian cinemas in September.

For another Austin Powers in Goldmember interview, click here.

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