Northwest Newsradio’s Zach Wildfang recently got the chance to talk with Bob Odenkirk and writer Derek Kolstad who shared insight into their new film Normal, a project that intentionally breaks away from traditional action movie expectations. Odenkirk explained that what drew him in was the film’s strong emphasis on story and character, noting that its opening plays more like a suspense-driven thriller in the vein of classic Hitchcock films. He stars as Ulysses, a reluctant, worn-down temporary sheriff who senses something is wrong in his small town but must overcome his own self-doubt to confront it.
Listen to the full interview below.
Kolstad, best known for the John Wick franchise, described Normal as a personal “love letter” to a mix of influences, including Bad Day at Black Rock, Hot Fuzz, and The Stepford Wives. The two collaborators worked closely on shaping the story, blending neo-Western elements with offbeat humor and tension. One standout piece of casting came with Henry Winkler as the town’s mayor—a choice that surprised even the filmmakers but ultimately proved to be a perfect fit, allowing Winkler to step into a rare, more sinister role.
Odenkirk also emphasized the film’s unique tonal balance, particularly its use of humor within violent scenes. He noted that the comedy often catches audiences off guard, making it especially effective in a group setting where reactions build off one another. Both Odenkirk and Kolstad expressed enthusiasm about the film’s reception and hinted at the possibility of more stories in the Normal world, with Odenkirk calling Ulysses one of the most personal characters he’s played.
