Aldis Hodge Talks 'City on a Hill,' His Favorite Boston Spots and More

After acclaimed performances in What Men Want and Clemency, actor Aldis Hodge continues his big year with City on a Hill. Debuting June 16 on Showtime, the drama stars Hodge and Kevin Bacon as a pair of law enforcement officers taking on corruption in Boston. “This show is going to be fire,” Hodge promises. We chatted with the actor about the series, working with executive producers Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, and even food.

What made you want to get involved with City on a Hill?

I love the show because it’s gritty and raw. We’re dealing with Boston in the ’90s, crooked cops and robbers, that kind of thing. What really captures me about the show is that regardless of the scenario and what brought us all together, we’re still dealing with the life of Boston. We’re dealing with these people as representations of the life of Boston and how harsh it can be or has been for some.

Did you enjoy filming in Boston? Find any favorite spots around town?

I grew up between New York and New Jersey, and I had family in Boston. We would go up to Boston in the winters. I have no idea why the winters, because they were terribly cold. Boston’s changed a little bit, but I will say my favorite place that I hit was Ostra. The first place that Kevin and I met and had dinner at was Ostra. We had a fantastic conversation and got to know one another, but the food was brilliant. I was there a couple times a week. Their sauces are fantastic.

How involved were Matt and Ben?

This whole idea was really born in Ben Affleck’s head. They were both completely involved. Ben’s actually been on set a couple of times. It would be nice to actually see him direct. That would be really cool. What are your favorite Boston movies? Of course, I love Good Will Hunting [written and starring Damon and Affleck]. I also really like The Town [Affleck starred and directed]. I thought it was done really well. Then again, The Departed [Damon starred in] is damn good, man. It’d be a toss up between those.