The Catch Me Interviews
MICHELLE SHIELDS
www.myspace/michelleshields
Plan B From Outerspace/ Timeserver / Voices From the Grave/ Fred Clause / Path of the Dead / Batman: Dark Knight / Working Title / Public Enemies
1) Are you having fun with film ?
Why ?
Yes! I have so much fun making films and meeting other people with the same passion.
2) Ever gonna write or direct ?
I love all aspects of film making. Right now I�m concentrating on just acting and developing that. Down the road I would love to try directing or something like that.
3) You�ve made a couple BIG films, Details ?
BATMAN______________
FRED CLAUS___________
Yes, I�ve made some �big� ones but really I have some of the best experiences with the other projects I�ve worked on. For example, I had so much fun working on �Working Title� working with Larry Thomas(mad soup chef from Seinfeld). He was more than a pleasure to work with and we had fun saying 3 Stooges references in between takes lol.
4) �Voices From The Grave� has Joe Estevez and Robert Zdar�Any stories ?
Robert Zdar originally gave me some acting lessons and liked my acting and saw potential and suggested me for the co-staring role in �Voices�.
5) �Plan 9� ,Is this a remake, tribute or parody ?
Well it�s none of the above because its called �Plan B From Outer Space�. It�s about vampires and its still in pre-production.
6) BEST of �Da� Shields On/Off set ?
I like to get along with everyone. I like to be prepared and I can easily adapt if need be.
7) WORST of �Mich ?
7) Well not to sound rude but I have little tolerance for unprofessional behavior. Anything from being unprepared or thinking that they are there to only party.
8) Myspace has this been good networking ?
Myspace is a great tool when it comes to networking and meeting other people who have the same passion. The only downside is the weirdoes that pop up and harass you.
9)VINCE VAUGN,Funny Stories ?
Well in �Fred Claus� in the mall chase scene I was in the toys �r� us scene. Vince Vaughn was supposed to run past me and instead he ran right into me. He helped me up and apologized. He was very polite and great to work with.
The final question went unanswered ASK MICHELLE !
KRISTINA HUGHES
� Frost/Nixon /Helicon / Green River / "Without Prejudice?" /Willoughby / Unwrapped / "Open Call" / Jeep: King of the Mountain /Old School
1) So, You�re a former Miss Connecticut ?
Still have a crown and sash ?
Oh my gosh! Seems like it took me forever to get to Miss USA (I was a runner-up for so many years!) Yes! & Yes! Most of the time the crown and banner are on display in my living room next to my official photos and plaque with a spotlight that hits the crown �just so�. Sometimes, I�ve taken them off the wall to just dance around my place as a pick-me-up!
2) Did a lot of TV episodes, Better or worse than film experience?
Hmmm�I love TV, more people see your work at one time, and most of the TV I�ve done has been comedy which is quick and upbeat as far as the shooting schedule. I haven�t had that big juicy series regular role-yet. I am working on it. In fact I am writing a series pitch with some other Industry friends and of course there�s with a great role in it for me if all goes as planned.
But, I have to say I LOVE film work. I have had so many awesome opportunities to work with really talented directors and other crew members. I�ve very often been able to run with my role. I sometimes feel very possessed and inspired by my character and then I really enjoy adding layers to my characters. I love that.
3) Green River looks like your breakthrough role, Why do you think ?
�Only time will tell� to quote the 80�s band ASIA. With our LA premiere, I received some amazing kudos for my performance especially for the third act. Let�s just say it was liberating!
More release dates will be posted soon at www.GreenRiverTheMovie.com and through distributors, Moving Pictures Film and Television, Maitland Primrose Group, and Vanguard Cinema and then well it could be one of those projects that become a hit via DVD. My co-lead and I have great chemistry, it�s shot beautifully and there�s an ending that has provoked some interesting
discussions. I�m currently meeting with directors and producers who were impressed with my acting and self-promotion as well as some new representation. I definitely believe this film will help me get to the �next level�. I�ve proven I can carry a film, I�m ready for more, I�m hungry for more.
3) BEST of �KH� On/Off set ?
On set, I know how to zero in and be laser focused forgetting any stress that may be going on in my outside world. Being natural in unnatural circumstances with everything going on behind the scenes can be weird for some performers. I think my early modeling days helped me with this. I mean shooting bikinis in the snow�you have to convince yourself you are warm, or well, it shows!
Off set I pride myself on being a good listener and on being very generous. My friends are amazed at the details of their stories that I can recall months later. They matter to me so it�s important. Also I am a business owner and very much a philanthropist. My partner-in-crime and I started Holdon Log, The Standard in Performer Organizational Tools in 2001. It�s a business that inspires global performers on a daily basis and helps them stay on track and be professional. We created the company out of our own need and initially out of our one bedroom apartment with little funds. It�s amazing what can happen with drive and determination. What was once just one book has become a thriving company with a global reach, nearing a dozen log books, software, a resourceful website, a highly-read newsletter and we are on the verge of launching PerformerTrack which is our ActorTrack software magnified and now online. It�s pretty thrilling.
5) WORST of �?
Well I could play the role of a pageant girl and say �nothing. I am very happy with who I am� but I am sure your readers would be like �come on!�
So on set. I get really aggravated if it�s obvious someone has not worked on their lines and if they are just there because they truly know someone. Of course I am a pro and keep this to myself. I once worked on a film and the lead was high almost the whole shoot. It was hard to keep it together because we had to collectively rally to keep things together. Hence the project did suffer and well, we�ll see what happens in post. You never know, they can after all create miracles sometimes!
Off set�I�m a �pile queen� the piles are very organized, but there are many. I love doing research and consequently I have articles and images in piles for �acting-related�, �career networking�, �business networking�, �splurges�, �travel�, etc. I am trying to now scan and store or create better files on my computer, or just toss things out.
6) One Sentence Descriptions
PATTY McCORMACK _________ honestly I had no idea who she was. My first scene in Frost/Nixon was not with her, notable Frank Langella and Kevin Bacon (yep one degree away now, thank you). The second day I was filming at the Nixon Library she was there working to and she was smiling away just taking it all in. I later IMDB�d her and called my CPA who is a movie buff and got the scoop.
FRANK LANGELLA_____________ commanding presence and talk about laser-focused. In a room of 30 people it was just him, Ron Howard and the camera he was speaking to giving Nixon�s resignation speech to America.
Any lead from OLD SCHOOL___________well aside from the amazing �Naked Man� Nicholas Hosking, I worked only with Luke Wilson and Juliette Lewis. Since Luke is the lead out of those two and I am pretty sure was just coming off of a break-up, honestly we hardly spoke. Which is weird considering the racy scene I am in�usually there�s some conversation before you get to that stage of undress!
On a side note, Will Ferrell! I so want to work with him in the near future and find it (according to IMDb.com) hard to believe that he�s done 24 projects since! That�s just incredible!
7) HELICON deserves some explaining ?
An up-and-coming award-winning Italian director offered me the role based on seeing my work online and I gratefully accepted. I traveled to the east coast to be a part of it. My character, Helen Trishburgh is an uptight stiff white collar type Executive Producer of a tabloid show who becomes exposed by a writer on a trail of destruction.
This is a short film, entirely rhotoscoped. From the still images and a few clips it�s stunning and is destined to win awards at international film festivals! Always optimistic and my director poured his talents in to the project. Go Felippo Prandi!
8) Enjoy doing commercials ? Which is played the most ?
Commercials are fun to be a part of. The ones that have been played the most were beauty spots for L�Oreal. I�m also a hand model and have doubled several stars on big beauty contracts in addition to being cast for just my hands.
But the ones people call me to say �I just saw you!� those would be for Lexus, Clearasil, Coors Light and several pharmaceutical products.
I love working on commercials so much that I am currently working on an empowering book about breaking into the Industry and staying there with commercial casting director Stuart Stone.
9) �Boston Legal� is my wife�s favorite show, She has a thang for William Shatner , How was your scenes ?
I love Mr. Shatner. I have a thang myself for older, confident, quaffed well-dressed men. I was on the set of Boston Legal for two days to shoot two scenes. Unfortunately I didn�t have any dialogue exchanges with him as I was opposite him and Candice�s client playing a JAG Attorney who supports the �Don�t Ask, Don�t Tell� policy in the US Armed Forces. In fact, he didn�t have any dialogue the one day that he was there, so the only opportunity came via a brief exchange off set in the craft services area where myself and Henry Gibson who plays Judge �Clark Brown� were conversing over coffee and Mr. Shatner stopped over. I can though, say for your wife that Mr. Shatner seems to enjoy every minute on the set. He was very upbeat and had great repore with Candice and our director Steve Robin.
By the way, there�s a great photo of me on set at the Boston Legal page on IMDb.com.
10) So, We�ve come to the end of interview�What do your fans not know about you ?
Well, I do have a little trivia listed on my Web site that explains my fascination with ladybugs, and I mention some other novelties on my IMDb.com page. So my fans probably know more than they think they do. While I enjoy being a public person, I am also private. So I�ll leave you with this. I do have a passion for getting more pets out of shelters and into safe, loving homes. I have rescued two cats. One of the cats was abandoned by an irresponsible young adult who wasn�t ready for a pet and unfortunately in the big city of Los Angles there seems to be an abandoned cat on every street that is taken care of a community of neighbors. That�s really sad. I�d encourage my fans to consider adopting a pet if they can find a way to spend time with it and invest in its healthcare. If that�s not something they can commit to, I�d suggest volunteering at an animal shelter just once a month for a few hours with walking and feeding them. It can lift your spirit and animals love and desperately need the attention.
DUSTIN FITZSIMONS
http://www.dustinfitzsimons.com/
DEATH RACERS w/ICP
GETTING AWAY
STREET RACER w/ Jennifer Dorogi
1) So, We get the feeling you're becoming The asylum's go-to boy character , Like - We need a Toby Maguire/ Shia Lebouf Type ?
Well let me start off by saying I love those guys! I am so glad that I have had the opportunity to work with them as much as I have. It does seem like in there last few films I have been that quirky young kid type but it suits me and I relate well to that character type.
2)Feelings about MOCKBUSTERS ?
Mockbusters are great! They have an entirely separate following of their own and it's another alternative to turn to if you are left wanting more of a particular kind of film. The great thing about The Asylum is their scripts are completely original so if you happen to see a film that you loved and has left you wanting more the Asylum has got your back only with an entirely new story line.
3)Your latest has the look of a cult film, Perhaps more like the David Carradine original than the bland Jason Statham version,Are we going to be happy ?
I'm really excited to see how Death Racers comes out. The Tone to this film is unlike any I have worked on yet. The whole film is very up-beat despite the amount of blood you are going to see. I think that contrast is going to make this film incredibly interesting to any one watching.
4)What's with ALL THE CARS in your films, There is a gas problem, Buddy ?
Hahaha!! There does seem to be a bit of a Theme here huh? Its funny you mention that because one morning before shooting one of our movie cars wouldn't start. After the crew tried for hours to get it started they discovered that the gas tank was full of water! Apparently over night someone had taken the gas from the tank and replaced it with water! I couldn�t believe it!
5) BEST of DUSTY on/off the set ?
I must say, you will catch me at my best when I'm spending time with my family. They are so important to me and I realize that more so now because I have been away from them for so long. They tend to bring out the best in me and always manage to over look the worst.
6)WORST of FITZ'er on/off set ?
I am a freak about being on time. So I think I must drive people crazy! If ever we need to be somewhere by a certain time, whither it's to a movie or to a movie set and I'm not even a little bit early I freak out, rushing and pushing. I just hate that feeling. You should see me in traffic!
7) One Sentence Descriptions -
INSANE CLOWN POSSE-
Some of the coolest and most down to earth guys I have worked with and they are so funny!!
JENNIFER DOROGI
A great person with an amazing personality and she is extremely talented.
JONATHAN NATION
I have only spoken briefly with him but I would love the opportunity to work with him more and get to know him better.
8)Your film, GETTING AWAY seems real controversial, But you have lead.. Wanna defend it ?
Getting Away is a film that I think most of the youth in America can relate to in this day and age. It's about a boy who can't handle the pressure and responsibility of having an absent parent. I think with the growing divorce rate in America it is something that is a current issue that kids are dealing with on a daily basis.
9)Ever gonna write or direct ?
I have done some writing in my day. I really love the creative aspect of it. Directing is something at this point I don't think I could handle. I see all of the problems that they deal with on a daily basis and they seem to be able stay so level headed. I am always surprised with all of the problems that happen that any movie is ever made.
10)You seem on a fast track to bigger & better projects, Few words to sum up your journey for the fans ?
It has been a crazy ride! It feels a lot like driving ninety miles an hour in a thick fog to be honest. But the support I have been receiving has been incredible and I can't say that enough!!
J.D. AYERS
www.myspace.com/moviestuntman
Bad Faith w/ D.W. Landingham/ Dead End / Keep Away (48hr fest)/ The Thanatos Complex/ Milk w/ Gus Van Sant/ Dance of the Marionettes / Team Room / Deer Season / So Hard To Forget w/ M Emmett Walsh/ Web of Darkness / Legends of the West
1) Acting or Stunts, PICK ONE ?
Why ?
Acting. Performed stuntwork for over twenty years and right now want to concentrate on acting.
2) Ever got hurt bad ?
Not really. Mostly bumps and bruises. Never broke a bone in my career.
3) Your favorite acting role ?
Psycho Killer which gives me an opportunity to cut loose on other actors and scare the hell out of them.
4) Favorite stunt you did ?
I would have to say the window crash would be my favorite. There's something about going through glass that appeals to me.
5) One Sentence Descriptions ---Gus Van Sant______________
DW Landingham ___________
M Emmet Walsh ______________
Gus - Quiet and dedicated man who knows what he wants to see.
DW - comedic and also has a vision on what he wants his final product to look like.
Walsh - Only seen his work from a distance, great acting ability.
6) Explain Legends Of The West involvement, Isn't this a compilation of a bunch of movies in a set ?
Yes. This was a compilation. I was in the Billy the Kid segment. After seeing the finished film - the only thing you see of me is really my boot. The dissolve put me out completely as Jack Palance walks in.
7) BEST of J.D. on/off set ?
I woud say I would try to see the lighter side of things. During production where the hours drain the crew, I perk them up by making them laugh.
8) WORST of J.D. on/off set ?
I seem to be a workoholic, always going on the set and off the set. Some say I have to much "Crazy Energy", energy beyond what they can handle.
9) A bunch of your films are available only on internet , Is this good or bad ?
It doesn't really bother me. If people want to see my work and know where to look, that's great! If they try that hard to find me, I must be doing something right.
10) Okay, I know you've taken a lot of hits ,But, leave us with some deep comments ?
Keep on striving to improve your craft. My motto is "Just Do it!". I tell this to actors and other performers who say they will try to do something. I have always believed that trying is the same as failing. Try to pick up a glass from a table. If you pick it up, you have succeeded and you are no longer trying. Put your hand around the glass - this is trying and failing.
RAY & MIGDALIA ETHERIDGE
vacanthouse.angelfire.com
Films: The Vacant House /Dying for Dollars / Bad Spirits / Stoned Dead / Detour to Hell / Fart: The Movie / The Vernonia Incident
1) So, Does the working together ever conflict at home ?
Answer: No. We purchased our current residence knowing that we were going to use it as a movie location, so filling it up with sets, equipment, and actors was expected. In the case of filming 'The Vacant House', we shot in virtually every room of our house, (including the bathrooms and attic), and frankly, the house was a mess. But we have been able to live and work under one roof with minimal conflict, and within 48-hours after we finished shooting the movie, the house was put back to normal.
2) Have you ever broken even or made money with your movies ?
Details ?
Answer: No. Frankly, we have approached movie-making as a hobby, and do it only because we enjoy the process of making movies. Have we tried to make money with our movies?...the answer is 'yes'. We have looked for distributors,we have sent screeners,we have gone the film festival route,but the fact is, there is far too much material in the marketplace today, and a movie without a 'big actor' will rarely be picked up by a distributor. (Unless you want to shoot porno or do a slasher film,we don't do that).
3) Amazon.com carries your movies, Would you recommend them ?
Answer: Yes, but understand that Amazon is merely a 'duplicator/shipper'. They do NOT advertise or market your films. The main reason for using Amazon is because it 'looks' professional, and makes the actors feel proud that their film is available worldwide. (Whether anybody actually buys it or not). Amazon is NOT cheap,they keep about 85% of the sales price. Our net profit is $3.27 per unit sold, Most importantly, since a 'DVD Master' is deposited with Amazon, they act as a giant 'film vault' in case our home master is somehow lost or destroyed.
4) So, What genre is next SCI-FI or MUSICAL ?
In making a micro-budget film, the first rule is to use whatever supplies or special skills you have. If you have a 'spooky attic', you make a horror film. If you have a vacant lot with trees, you make an outdoor film. If you stay on private property, you will not require a shooting permit, (or the million dollar insurance policy required to get a permit). Our next film will most likely be a psychological drama.
5) We know you like to think of your films as a school for some actors ? You've used some actors with BIG credits too ?
Many of our actors have had very small parts in very big films, One of our older actors in Miami had credits in over 50 major films, but NEVER had a speaking part until WE gave him a chance. Working as an 'extra' in a movie will never teach you how to 'hit your mark', how to 'cheat' a camera angle, a right way and a wrong way to turn/walk/talk/sit. Those are types of things that we teach, and after they work on our films, they have the tools to go out and audition (with confidence) for roles in bigger projects.
6) BEST thing about Ray On/Off set ? BEST thing about Migdalia On/Off set ?
We work as a team, and are willing to compromise on such things as casting, and creative issues dealing with dialogue changes, editorial, or music content. We try to be fair and flexible. We share successes, but we also share blame.
7) WORST thing about Ray ?
WORST thing about Migdalia ?
During production there is an ENORMOUS amount of pressure and a HUGE workload that could easily result in an explosion of tempers. We try to minimize problems as much as possible by working together and planning even the smallest details. Even though the actors are not paid, they are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner, and continued disturbances such as tardiness or disruptive behavior are not tolerated.
8) What have you learned between 'Vernonia Incident' and 'The Vacant House' ?
Each film is unique, and a learning experience unto itself, but no matter what kind of project we are shooting, WE ARE PREPARED. Before we start the day, we know EXACTLY where the camera is going to go, where the lights will be placed, where the microphone will be hidden, and what props will be used. We have also learned that it does NOT matter what kind of camera you are using, it's HOW you use it that counts.
9) Will you ever change roles on set ?
Our current system 'works', so there is no reason to change a successful formula.
10) FINAL words about anything ???
Making a movie is fun, but it is NOT easy. If you want to make a movie, just DO it. Do it for fun. Don't do it with the intention of making a dime,because you won't. Do it because you enjoy making movies. The minute that it is no longer fun,STOP, because it is more work than you can imagine. Most importantly, never lie to your actors. Don't promise them big money ,after the film goes into theatrical release, and makes a profit, it won't. Ever. Everyone needs to be on the same page that you're doing it for fun, and for the experience. Nothing more.
GREGORY PAUL SMITH
GPS with Michael Gross
www.myspace.com/gregorypsmith
/2012: Doomsday /Evil Bong 2: King Bong /War of the Worlds 2: The Next Wave /Horrorween /Street Racer /The Auteur /100 Million BC /Alien vs. Hunter /I Am Omega /Dead Man's Hand: Casino of the Damned /Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead /Evil Bong /The Godfather of Green Bay
1) Huge Buzz on two of your most recent films-
HORRORWEEN and 100Million BC, What can you tell us ?
I've been sworn to silence on Horrorween until it's release, Debbie Rochon, Lloyd Kaufman, and Dee Snider can elaborate more on that. Fangoria has a radio show every Friday on Sirius satellite radio hosted by Dee Snider & Debbie Rochon. They've been talking about how funny it is that they have credits on Horrorween and they're not even in it. It turns out, I'm also credited! As well as Lloyd Kaufman who is also not in it.....oh, and Sylvia Browne!!! Maybe I'll get ahold of the guy and see if I can actually be in it!
100 Million BC will be premiering on the Sci-Fi channel sometime in the summer of 2008. I play a scientist....it's a one-liner but it was fun! I was also the Equipment Manager, but really I just did anything that needed to be done. My grandma died while I was working on Alien Vs. Hunter. Immediately after, In 100MilBC, I put all my old family photos on the wall behind Michael Gross. The camera ended up doing a close-up on my Grandma & Grandpa's pic which was pretty cool. My Grandpa's car also has a cameo, as it has in I Am Omega and Street Racer. Anyway, this was the hardest movie I've ever worked on! We shot high in the mountains, lugging all our heavy movie making tools on foot because It was way too steep for vehicles. Once we got to the top, we still had to use ropes to get up into the cave and also use ropes to pull our stuff with us. I ran up and down that hill so many times that I screwed up my knee. When I went home, I could barely walk. It eventually subsided. A couple weeks later, I got foot drop during War of the Worlds 2: The Next Wave. A major nerve was paralyzed in my knee used to move my foot up and down!! The doctor said it was from overwork. I was in a foot brace for weeks and it's recovering. Still gives me some trouble though. In the end it was tough but well worth it! I got to see some beautiful locations that I've never seen before, get eaten by a dinosaur, and meet lots of great people. By the way, 100 Million BC was previously titled Prehistoric and it's directed by someone other than who's credited. That's a whole nutha story brutha!
2) You work a lot, Why do you think ?
I think I need to slow down for a bit. As you already know, it's affecting my health. I did the Wardrobe & Acting on Street Racer and during the end of the shoot, I got a PA job on Evil Bong 2: King Bong. There was a point when I was on the set of EB2 during the day and immediately after wrap I had to head over to the Street Racer shoot at night....and then when that wrapped I headed back over to the EB2 set!!! I was so tired! Plus I had to help Robin Sydney(The Lost, Big Bad Wolf, MOH: Right To Die) set up a Zorbitz exhibit in Anaheim! Driving there, I had to sing really loud and keep eating so not to fall asleep. When I got there, I had to lug a heavy carpet through this huge convention center at Disneyland! All this and no sleep....walking out, I was shaking and was sooooo tired! Then I started another project the day after EB2 ended!!! So, now I'm in relax and take care of myself mode.
3) Rumor has it you're involved in the NEW Friday The 13th,What can you tell us ?
Ugh! Sad story. I had tried to track down Crystal Lake Productions so I could get involved. I got the address, drove there and it ended up being Sean S. Cunningham's house! Somebody pulled up and explained things to me. Anyway, so I end up talking to Sean for close to 2 years about it. Recently, I called back to check on the status and they were already hiring!!! Turns out, Sean had his hands full working on Last House On The Left in Africa and Platinum Dunes was hiring out of Austin, Texas! So I got in contact with them but I was too late. Everyone had been hired. It would have been a dream come true since the Friday the 13th franchise is one of my favorites. Oh well, they are re-making A Nightmare On Elm Street, Hellraiser, Child's Play, and more of my favorites so I'm gonna chase after them. I've already talked to some people about Child's Play.....we'll see, it's tough in this business.
4) One Sentence Descriptions:
DAVID MICHAEL LATT- A nice guy who gives people a chance.
CHARLES BAND- Great guy whose always busy and works very fast.
LLOYD KAUFMAN- Too much for one sentence, but he's a terrific guy off set and just watch Apocalypse Now: The Making of Citizen Toxie: The Toxic Avenger Part 4 to see what he's like on set!
5) BEST of GPS on/off set ?
On:Easy to get along with and a hard worker. Off:I know how to have an adventure!
6) WORST of GPS on/off set ?
On:I sometimes get nervous when acting. Off:I do fun things and put off things that need to get done.
7) Your opinion on MOCKBUSTERS ?
Well, they've been around for a long time. Maybe since the beginning of film. The cool thing with David Latt and The Asylum is that they don't try to mask the fact that the movie is a rip-off. With titles like Transmorphers, Snakes On A Train, I Am Omega, and Street Racer. They come out very close to the release of the movie it's mocking, and it's pretty obvious that they are meant to be blatant rip-offs. I love them!
8) Will you ever write or direct ?
I'm working on some scripts as we speak and would love to direct. I directed a film on the 10th anniversary DVD of Tromeo & Juliet. LOL, it's more of a joke since we filmed it in 8 hours on a home video camcorder. It's a re-make of the scene where Juliet gives birth to rats & popcorn and it's on the 2nd disc. Very amateur but funny non the less.
9) All the things you've done on the set,What do you like best ?
When I'm not so nervous, acting but Wardrobe is fun as well.
10) What's the ONE THING we need to know to end this interview with you ?
The world is tough. Love one another.
GEOFFREY GOULD
geoffgould.net
( 1) You have been in a lot of movies and tv shows?
I've actually begun to lose count: not all of them are listed on my IMD entry, and thre's sixty listed there.
I've also done over forty student films: USC, LA Film School, UCLA, et al.
1a) Are they paying your bills?
Sadly no. I am lucky to get two to three days of acting work a month. But (as of today April 08, 2008), I just got booked as a principal for a regional McDonalds commercial, which shoots this Friday.
2) 'My Name Is Earl' seems to welcome you back?
I'd love to think so: I've had three gigs on it, all Featured to Very Featured Background.
I'd LOVE to have a Day Player or principal role on the hilariously written and excellently acted series!
3) 'Help Me Help You', Ted Danson stories ?
Never saw him: our scene was of a Jewish Cultural Center celebrating a public Sabbat. It only took one day on the Paramount backlot.
4) BEST of Geoff On/Off set ?
Being punctional, loyal, reliable and resourceful.
5) WORST of Gouldster ON/OFF set ?
Inner self-criticism...
6) 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' could he make it in prime time, Would you like to be part of ensemble cast ?
That'd be awesome. I've worked the show as an Under-5 thrice, though only twice making it to air.
The first (February 11 2005 episode) was a sketch spoofing American Airlines, then for the April 19th episode I was back as an Accountant celebrating tax day having passed.
I did a third Under-5 gig for a Lady in the Water spoof, as a Paul Giamatti photo double, but my footage wasn't used. But it was a fun shoot, using the backyard pool of one of the producer's modest place; ended up with quite a BBQ late into the cool night, with poor Guillermo in the pool for hours getting colder and colder....
7) 'Strictly Background' was this documentary right on, Or way off ...What it is that you do ?
Mostly Strictly Background was spot on, on most of on what it touched. Its director shot over seventy hours of footage, and the feature is 84 minutes. My part of the documentary entailed being video interviewed for a few hours for an afternoon, and director Jason Connell recording me on set. The major studois wouldn't hear of it, so Jason resourcefully found indie gigs on which his talent could be booked.
I worked on two features that way: The Achievers and Tripping Forward, neither of which to my knowledge have really gone anywhere yet...
For all of $10. 00, the heart-felt, three-time award-winning feature has its final Los Angeles-based film festival screening Saturday April 19th 2008 at 6:50pm at the Los Angeles United Film Festival (LAUFF), at the Fine Arts Theatre, 8556 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, 90211.
8) Would you work as much, If you looked any different ?
Not sure; depends in which direction my look would be different. If I was "handsome" it might actually be tougher: such roles tend to be for "18 [years old] to look younger" types. Having a character face makes one stand out a bit, and look more realistic and natural.
9) Will you ever write or direct your own project ?
I was an aspiring writer in high school and took typing to learn it; I've been timed at 61 words per minute.
Technically I am a better editor, but I did write a couple of short films that got made: Man-Away and Daddy's Girl, for a specific film festival. Not sure how good I'd be as a director (of features), though I confess considering the final product, I wish I'd have directed my own short films [bg]...
10) Please tell us ...That one moment that made every trial worth the effort ?
Possibly spending eight and a half hours of Sharon Stone running her fingers through my hair...?
Most likely such as today, with my agent calling to convey my having been booked on the McDonalds commercial. It's "just" a regional spot, but it is principal work so it will help my current finances substantially. It is probable I'll have my own trailer, and will certainly be treated a lot differently than were I doing (even featured) background [bg].
ERIKA SMITH
www.erikasmith.net
Erika was first noticed by the independent film community for her role in the 2003 cult comedy 'Hotties' and its follow-up 'Hotties 2: the Hot, the Bad and the Ugly'.'Bite Me!'followed, in which Erika's performance as Trix, a clumsy burlesque dancer, earned her rave reviews and a reputation as a stellar young physical comedienne. With 2006's 'Sinful', Erika showed film audiences her dramatic side, as an expectant mother terrorized by her violently jealous neighbor. 2007 brought Erika back to her comedic roots with her role in 'Bachelor Party 2'...And with roles in the upcoming films "iMurders," "Hysterical Psycho" and "The Wrestler," Erika's star will continue to rise.
The Wrestler / iMurders / Hysterical Psycho / Soul Killer / Bachelor Party 2: The Last Temptation / Splatter Beach / The Champ / Sinful / The Wanderer / Eat Your Heart Out /Shock-O-Rama / Sexy Adventures of Van Helsing / Bite Me!
1) Describe your place in film , Historically speaking ?
Huh? You mean like how will I go down in history? I don't know. In like 20 years I'll be the Blanche Dubois type... I usually play characters whose sexuality is front and center. I like playing extreme characters... I like characters where you know everything about them by the way they dress. While we're talking Tennessee Williams, someone give me the part of Maggie in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" please. I could play that really well I think. And while we're talking Liz Taylor, if anyone decides to make a remake of "Butterfield 8," call me. Does that answer the question?
2) Which is Harder- Comedy or Horror , Why ?
Comedy, because you have to have finesse and timing to put the jokes over, and a clear definition of the kind of character you are playing and what's funny about them. Not that you don't in Horror... it depends on the script too. Some Horror is very paint-by-numbers, you just have to scream when it says scream. Other Horror movies you have a character that is very unique and complex.
3) BEST of ERIKAHHHH on / off set ?
What do you mean? Best of? I don't know what you mean. What were my best roles? I guess I would say roles, no matter the size, where I felt like I fully realized the characters... "Bite Me," "Eat Your Heart Out."
4) WORST of EHHH EHSSSSS ?
I didn't really like my performance in "Sinful." Some people really liked it, but I didn't really put much thought into my performance, as much thought as I usually do. I couldn't get a clear handle on the material.
5) One sentence descriptions ---
MICKEY ROURKE _his performance was intense and real...he WAS that guy.
GILBERT GOTTFRIED _he was fun and kooky to hang out with, and when it was time to perform, he turns it on like a switch and is brilliant.
POLONIA BROS._down to earth, funny, sweet, nice guys
ERIN BROWN_complex, bright, real, she and I have always got along well
BRETT PIPER_hardworking, dedicated, talented .
6) So, What is your opinion of rabid fans ?
I don't have any rabid fans! I have some fans, and they write and are perfectly pleasant. No wierdos. I appreciate that they have noticed me and my work and enjoyed it enough to communicate with me.
7) Seems you have made it to that sweet spot of acting , Explain how ?
I think you're referring to the fact that I continue to get work over the past few years?? Um, I did it by the book. I went to acting school, I got myself a manager. She gets me some stuff and some stuff I hustle and get on my own, or we work together to get me jobs, or people re-hire me or refer me to their friends who are making a movie, or someone sees me in a film and asks me to be in theirs. I go through the breakdowns and get auditions that way. Whenever I get a job I try to do my absolute best, and be pleasant, on-time, and well behaved so people will want to hire me again. I try to always be in class and working on my craft. Just good-old fashioned hard work, patience and never giving up. My career always comes first... though my love life likes to make a play for my focus. I've sacrificed a lot to be able to focus on my acting. I don't think I've 'made it' by any means though, if that's what you mean!
GEOFF MEED
www.geoffmeed.com
Next: Prehistoric aka 100,000,00 BC
/I Am Omega /Resident Evil: Extinction /Saints Row (VG) (voice) /Little Miss Sunshine /"Judging Amy" .... as Instructor (3 episodes tv) /"The Young and the Restless" .... as 'Cowboy'(2 episodes tv) /"Passions" ....as Hitman(5 episodes tv) /"CSI: Miami" & CSI:LV(tv) /"Port Charles"(tv) ....as Bruno /"ER" /"Buffy the Vampire Slayer"(tv) .... as Mag /..Buffy the Vampire Slayer: The Series episodes- Bargaining: Part 1 , - Bargaining: Part 2 "Strip Mall" (tv) /Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force (VG) (voice) /Leprechaun 4: In Space /Kickboxer 5 /"Renegade" (tv) /Fatal Skies
1) Acting or writing, PICK ? WHY ?
Writing for yourself is fun. Being a "writer for hire" can really suck. espcially when the company or people aren't really sure what they want. Acting is fun, especially when you get to run around and play make believe soldiers, cowboys, etc. but the business of acting can be very depressing, and all in all, the film/tv industry is really tough. i wouldn't encourage my worst enemy to pursue a career in it. so between the two, i guess acting.
2) Video games voice work or some rotoscoping too ? Do again ?
Man, when i did the "death cries" for Saints Row, i couldn't talk for about a week and a half. voice over is hard because you really have to overact. i'm not too good at it. not as good as i'd like to be anyway. but it is definitely fun.
3) When will you direct ?
Funny you should ask. Discussing that very topic with the Asylum as we speak.
4) Sooo,You've never been a good guy from start to finish ?
Um, let me think... Kinda. In Leprechaun 4. In Prehistoric also i play a kind of heroic good guy actually. but usually i'm always the bad guy. they're more fun anyway. why kiss the girl when you can rape and dismember her? ha ha. we're talking in the movies, not reality, OKAY?
5) TV or FILM choose ? WHY ?
I love TV. it's fast and you work. film takes a long time. well, big budgets like Resident Evil. on a studio film, you might shoot 1-3 pages a day. TV you shoot like 9-12 pages. i'd actually prefer a tv series role to a film career. a good supporting role. to carry a show is rough. really rough. lots of pressure. long, LONG hours. i want to be that supporting guy. the bad detective that works maybe 3 days a week, and is the secondary guy. Like Kramer was on Seinfeld.
6) Of the current stars,How would your hand to hand challenge go ?
JASON STATHAM___________VINNIE JONES__________JET LI__________KANE KOSUGI______VANDAMME & SEGAL handicap match_____________
Well, i've probably had over 100 street fights having been a mean lad as a youth, and having worked night club security and mosh pit for such fun bands as Black Sabbath. been stabbed. shot at. but those guys i'm sure can hold their own, so i'm not going to comment. however, i worked with Steven Seagal on a commercial, and he was amazing. he's for real.
What American Heritage Dictionary says: meed (m,,d) Pronunciation Key
n. 1. A fitting recompense.
2. Archaic A merited gift or wage.
7) Would you agree ?
well.... my last name changed about 5 times over time with my Irish ancestors who were all criminals and mercenaries evading the authorities. can't remember the clever mick that changed it to Meed. but ah, sure.
8) The Soap Operas, Wanna explain ?
$$$. but Port Charles was actually a BLAST! i really enjoyed my time on there. the cast and crew were just awesome and so much fun to work with. i was really bummed when i got killed off.
9) Theasylum good for Hollywood ?
yes. the asylum is especially wonderful for someone like me who can get a script, or a version of their script made, and get the opportunity to possibly direct. what all these young people don't know that criticize them is, that way back about 20 years ago, ALL the major networks came out with their versions of the large films coming out. they were called MOWs, or Movies of the Week. but the networks discovered a wonderful new disease called Reality TV, and they don't cost anything, so the MOWs became extinct.
10) Okay,Writer-Leave your fans with a nugget of truth ?
Acting was not what i originally wanted to do in life. i fell into it out of boredom while in college. i began writing during slow periods of work, just to keep myself busy. while i'm blessed for the career i've had, and i'm very grateful, i would not encourage anyone to ever try and be a professional entertainer. uh, and also. i cry whenever the dog dies in the movies.
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