Billy Connelly's comic challenge

(BANG) - Billy Connelly loves playing a serious character in his new movie.

The comedian portrays a catholic priest, Father Joe, in 'The X Files: I Want To Believe' and says he enjoyed the change.

He said: "There are no laughs at all, which is brilliant for me. I love that. It's a challenge.

"I love challenging roles that are very different for me, like 'Mrs Brown' or 'The Last Samurai' which wasn't a comedy role. I played a soldier and it was just a joy for me, prancing about, walking and talking in a different way.

"And it is exactly the same with this film. I have to get used to using my body in a different way. You get to use your eyes."

Billy says he drew on his upbringing for the role, despite no longer being Catholic.

He added: "I was brought up as a Catholic. I have several relatives who are Catholic priests and I had pals at school who became priests, sure. They are both dead now.

"I also have a cousin who is a nun and a cousin who is a missionary priest in Pakistan ... and I am an atheist. Well, I just say atheist because it is a convenient title. I am not a believer."

(C) BANG Media International