Dacre Montgomery’s Bold Return to Film with ‘Went Up the Hill’

Dacre Montgomery, known for his role in the Netflix hit Stranger Things, is making a significant return to the film industry with his latest project, Went Up the Hill. After stepping back from the spotlight for four years, this Australian actor has taken on a challenging role that reignites his passion for acting. The film, directed by Samuel Van Grinsven, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2023 and is set to release in cinemas across the United States and Australia.

At just 22, Montgomery became a household name following his portrayal of Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things. However, the sudden fame proved overwhelming. “I lost my anonymity overnight and it scared the shit out of me,” Montgomery, now 30, reflects during an interview at a Sydney bar. Following the show’s explosive success, he retreated to his hometown of Perth and turned down numerous acting offers, seeking to recalibrate and gain control over his career.

During his hiatus, Montgomery remained creatively active, releasing a beat-inspired poetry podcast and book titled DKMH and directing several short films. Despite his accomplishments outside of traditional acting roles, he felt a void. “I needed to stop and recalibrate,” he says, acknowledging his desire for more complex characters.

Went Up the Hill presents Montgomery in the role of Jack, a young queer man who travels to New Zealand for his estranged mother’s funeral. The film explores themes of inherited trauma and personal growth, featuring Montgomery alongside Vicky Krieps. Their characters confront the haunting legacy of abuse while navigating their own emotional turmoil. Montgomery describes the script’s exploration of trauma as deeply resonant, stating, “A lot of my anxieties come from that.”

The film was shot in New Zealand at Flock Hill Lodge, a remote location that added to the film’s eerie atmosphere. Montgomery likens the experience to The Shining, admitting that the isolation and chilling landscape left a lasting impact on him. “I would have nightmares all night, so I didn’t sleep the whole production,” he recalls.

Montgomery’s return to the spotlight seems to signal a new chapter in his career. His upcoming projects include a remake of the 1970s horror film Faces of Death and Gus Van Sant‘s Dead Man’s Wire, a true-crime thriller that has already garnered positive reviews. This resurgence follows a challenging period where his Hollywood agent dropped him, leaving him to reevaluate his career path.

“I think a lot of my anxieties come from that,” he remarks, reflecting on how personal experiences shape his artistic endeavors. With aspirations to direct his feature debut, The Engagement Party, in Western Australia, Montgomery is eager to explore new narratives and push creative boundaries. “I’m brimming with ideas,” he states, showing excitement for what lies ahead.

As Went Up the Hill releases in cinemas, Montgomery’s evolution as an actor and filmmaker is evident. He has transitioned from a young heart-throb to a nuanced performer ready to tackle complex roles. This new chapter in his career not only highlights his resilience but also his commitment to meaningful storytelling in film.