Given how secretive the production has been, we haven't known much about Idris Elba's role in Prometheus, the forthcoming sci-fi thriller from Ridley Scott. But in a recent interview with IGN, the actor gave some insight into his character, Janek.

Elba co-stars along with Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, and Charlize Theron, in a role that sounds somewhat minor. Given the horror tone of the film, we can only hope he makes it to the end.

Find his comments below, followed by a newly released international trailer:

Janek seems to be a little quieter than some of the crew. What did you make of him?

Idris Elba: He is an engineer. He works on these huge vessels that do long-haul space trips. He's the captain of Prometheus and there isn't much to him. He's like a longshoreman. There's no real mystery with him, I don't think, and why would there be? His job is pretty straightforward. He has a character and personality that will reveal itself in the film. But his purpose on that ship is to fly it and to get it from point A to point B. He's not really involved in the politics that ensues in the film.

So he's there for the paycheque?

Idris Elba: There's an interest because what happens on that ship affects everyone on it, but yeah essentially his job is to get everyone there. It's a mission and he's basically the eyes of that vehicle. Things happen that do affect everybody in one way or another and as the man that has to deal with the ship, he has certain responsibilities to uphold and fulfil. I had a fantastic time playing him and it didn't need to be complex, but it was so enjoyable. It's neither a big part nor a small part, it's just a great part. It's a part that I think plays a very important role in the film.

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Prometheus is set to hit theaters June 8 in the U.S.