With director Scott Cooper’s Black Mass now playing in theaters, I recently got to speak with star Joel Edgerton about the making of the film at the Toronto International Film Festival. During the interview he talked about his favorite scenes, deleted scenes, what he was surprised to learn about the story, starring in Jeff Nichols’ Loving with Ruth Negga, and more.

If you’re not familiar with Black Mass, the film tells the true story of Whitey Bulger (Johnny Depp), the former leader of the mob crew known as the Winter Hill Gang. Back in the 1970s in Boston, Bulger struck a deal with FBI Agent John Connolly (Edgerton) in order to eliminate a mutual enemy: the Italian mob. Black Mass also stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Kevin Bacon, Juno Temple, W Earl Brown, Corey Stoll, and Adam Scott. For more on the film, watch these eight clips, read Matt’s review, and see what Adam had to say about its Oscar possibilities.

Look for more Black Mass interviews over the coming days.

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Joel Edgerton:

• What he was surprised to learn when researching the role.
• Talks about one of his favorite scenes in the film.
• What it was like to film on location.
• Deleted scenes talk.
• Talks about why he has this particular haircut; he’s about to start filming Jeff Nichols Loving with Ruth Negga.

Here’s the official synopsis for Black Mass:

In 1970s South Boston, FBI Agent John Connolly (Edgerton) persuades Irish mobster Jimmy Bulger (Depp) to collaborate with the FBI in order to eliminate their common enemy: the Italian mob. The drama tells the story of this unholy alliance, which spiraled out of control, allowing Whitey to evade law enforcement while consolidating his power and becoming one of the most ruthless and dangerous gangsters in Boston history.