Interview by Chris Black
Photos by Amardeep Singh
A few months back, we were scrolling through Instagram when we came across a very serious piece of fan art.
One that took hard work, dedication, and at least two people to bring to life. Sure, it’s no life partner or the sudden birth of a child, but then again, getting a tattoo is kind of a lifelong commitment. So we made our way over to Brooklyn to speak with Guillermo Restrepo to find out why he devoted his chest to The Lobster.
How old are you? Where are you from?
24. I was born and raised in Colombia and came to the states with my mom in 2000. Brooklyn since.
What do you love about The Lobster?
I love several things about it, starting with the fact that it takes place in a very bizarre alternate reality that is so similar to ours, yet so entirely different only because of slight social cues and inherent human behavior that just could not possibly belong to a "normal" human being.
The main thing I love about the film, and the reason I have the particular image that I tattooed, is the film's thoughts on love. The image I have is Colin and Rachel's characters embracing this negative space, but with an expression of longing and warmth on their face. Yet, they're hugging...nothing, really. Themselves, in a way.
The main thing I love about the film, and the reason I have the particular image that I tattooed, is the film's thoughts on love.
When you look in the mirror do you ever hear Colin Farrell's voice?
No, but I hear Rachel tell me sweet things with her beautiful accent.
Has the tattoo affected your sex life?
A bit, actually. This is my 10th tattoo and I have a general rule to keep them mostly hidden, so they're around my hips, ribs, and now this one's on my chest. Whenever I take my shirt off they really make a statement, but it can be distracting. Think of being very in the moment and as you take your clothes off having to come to a pause and answer "What does this one mean???" 10 times.
Do you have any other film tattoos planned?
I actually already have 2. One for Blue Is The Warmest Color and another for Grave of the Fireflies. I wanted to get Moonlight done in some way, but I've had trouble turning it into an image that I would want on my skin literally forever. Also having the same problem with Dancer in the Dark—Bjork crying/dancing around a train? Too much.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
