Javier Bardem checked with and apologised to his “Cape Fear” co-star Lily Collias before filming a violent scene in which his character grabs her by the hair. The exchange highlights the care taken around physical scenes, despite Bardem’s intimidating portrayal of the murderous Max Cady in Apple TV+’s series.

Collias, who plays Natalie Bowden, said the finale followed 10 episodes of mounting tension and centred on Cady invading the Bowden family home. She described filming the episode as intense but enjoyable off camera, while Bardem said he views acting as an imaginative collaborative game and stresses respect for fellow performers’ processes.