Alexander Skarsgard has revealed filming Melancholia was a dream job.

The Swedish-born True Blood star plays Michael in Lars von Trier's apocalyptic drama, which also includes an appearance by his dad Stellan.

"Everything about it was amazing. We shot it right after I shot season three of True Blood, and it was just lovely because we shot it in Sweden and my old man was in the movie," he said.

The 34-year-old, who received an honorary degree from Leeds Metropolitan University, enjoyed being a part of the star-studded cast.

"There was an amazing ensemble with Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Rampling, Charlotte Gainsbourg, John Hurt and Kiefer Sutherland. It was a really, really special experience. I'm very happy and proud of that," the actor added.

Alexander - best known for his portrayal of vampire Eric Northman in True Blood - has always wanted to work with filmmaker Lars.

"I'm such a huge fan of Lars. It was just a dream," he said.

"As an actor, you can't ask for a better director. You're so free to do whatever you want, he doesn't need to block the scenes, he lets you explore, have fun and play around with it, and then he'll come in and whisper a little note or direction. The freedom I felt on that set, I never felt before."

Melancholia will open in cinemas on September 30.

PA