HBO: Welcome to our chat with Michelle Williams, best known as Jen Lindley on "Dawson's Creek". In the upcoming HBO film "If These Walls Could Talk 2" (which premieres Sunday, March 5 at 9pm/8 Central), Michelle plays a college student, active in the feminist movement of the early '70s, who falls for a butch lesbian (played by Chloe Sevigny). Now that you have a little background, fire away with your questions for Michelle. How are you today Michelle? Michelle: I'm good thanks :-) guest-ladyofthechorus: What made you decide to act in this movie? Michelle: A lot of things attracted me to it - the women behind it, the necessity of the story, and I love to work. guest-yuly680: Did you like to make this lesbian role in spite of not being gay? Will you do it again? Michelle: How do you know that I'm not gay? LOL I think that's my favorite thing about being an actress - the variation in roles,and taking on a risk and hopefully doing something different every time. guest-Laura: Many of the characters you've portrayed were very self-confident, is that a quality that you share? Michelle: I don't really find that. I wouldn't really say that all my characters are self-confident. I just don't know. guest-Manolis_Varnas: Michelle, who did you play in the movie "Species" and what was it like playing in that fantastic thriller? Michelle: Did you find it to be fantastic? Really! I was the younger version of Natasha Henstridge, the older alien. It was fun to do, but it was so long ago - I think I was 12 or 13 when I did it, and it was great. guest-ladyofthechorus: Did you have to talk with any gay or lesbian people to gear up for your role? Michelle: Yes, I did a lot of research and watched old archival footage and did documentaries. Also, I was able to talk with a few women who went through the movement in that time to get a grasp of the reality of the time and get some firsthand information. guest-ladyofthechorus: What obstacles did you have to overcome in order to play this character? Michelle: I wouldn't say there were obstacles; more challenges and things to discover. It was really just finding out about the times, and what it looked like, felt like, and getting a grasp of that. guest-Manolis_Varnas: Michelle what do you think makes "Dawson's Creek" such a successful show, and what do you think of the soundtrack? Michelle: I haven't ever listened to the soundtrack! But I think that what made it successful in the beginning is that it was honest and articulate, and a different series, a different kind of TV show, that hadn't been seen before. guest-mollie: Do you plan to play in other movies besides this new movie of yours, and who would you love to work with? Michelle: I don't know - there are so many actors and actresses that I admire and love to watch. I don't know what I'll do next. guest-cosmo: Michelle, how do you think that this show reacts to the real life of the teenagers. Michelle: It's kind of hard to answer, because the show deals with life in high school and I haven't been in high school for a while. I hope that it's just honest. There are things we've tried to do with pushing boundaries, and other issue-driven episodes that hopefully help and give a place for teenagers to relate. guest-Laura: If you could pick a role from any movie ever made to star in, what would it be? Michelle: Although I'd never want to do it, because it's already been done perfectly and brilliantly, it would be Jessica Lange's role in "Francis". guest-Manolis_Varnas: You are a wonderful actress and the show rules! What has been your most favorite storyline so far? Michelle: I don't know - I liked it last season when I was drinking! guest-Laura: Who's your favorite actor of your generation? Michelle: I don't know - I'm biased. guest-Legacyst: Where you nervous about doing this movie? Michelle: Not really. I was excited, and really grateful for the opportunity and the chance to do something I believe in, and do something bigger than one individual person. Something that has necessity to it. guest-Laura: Of all the roles you've done, which character do you most identify with? Michelle: I did a play called "Killer Joe" and the character that I played there was called "Dottie". guest-Legacyst: How much longer do you think you'll stay working on "Dawson's Creek"? Michelle: You know, I don't know. I don't know how long my contract is for. guest-HerbertNYC: You were great in "Killer Joe." Are you going to do more theater? Michelle: Thank you! I would love to do more theatre. I was so happy in the time I spent doing that, and living in New York. There's a big difference between live theatre and TV - you need more concentration in TV, it's so quick and cut up. Whereas in theatre, you have to sustain a level of commitment and honesty for 8 shows a week. But I also love film, and the intimacy of it. guest-DeputyDoug: Michelle, has a director been chosen for "Don't Blink," and when will it start filming? Michelle: We're in the middle of it right now. Ideally we'll start filming over the hiatus, but it's a bigger commitment than I've ever taken on and it involves more time and energy. So it's kind of an arduous process. guest-maddy: Which were the more difficult scenes to do? Michelle: Obviously, there's a love scene, and that was without question the most difficult because it was so personal and vulnerable. guest-medic: In addition to "If These Walls Could Talk", you also have a role in "But I'm A Cheerleader," which is a lesbian comedy. How did the experiences differ? Michelle: I worked for a day on "But I'm a Cheerleader" because friends were involved in it. So there wasn't enough formative experience on that show to get a distinct feeling about it. guest-ladyofthechorus: How do you feel about being considered a sex symbol? Michelle: YUECCHH! That's a really uncomfortable title, because it feels really limiting. I don't want to say demeaning, but sort of. I don't think I am one. Screwdup: Has starring in "Dawson's Creek" made you more aware of your true acting potential? Michelle: I don't know. It's given me lots of opportunities, and allowed me to do some things that I loved and am proud of. So in that respect, it's been great. guest-Claire: What was it like working with Ellen and Anne? Michelle: I didn't actually work with them, because they weren't in my segment. But being around them, after making the film, they were so gracious and kind. Even during filming they were always there to offer support. guest-Rachel: I heard that you have an upcoming project called "Don't Blink." Can you elaborate on it? Michelle: It's a story that two friends and I wrote together about a year ago. It mostly takes place in a brothel, but it's not really about prostitution. It's about freedom, the cost of freedom, and friendship. SusanIskiwitch: Michelle, I admire your work. Do you have any plans for your hiatus from "Dawson's"? Michelle: I'm in the middle of trying to figure out what to do. guest-Claire: Are you prepared to deal with any adverse publicity for portraying a lesbian? Michelle: Yes! I'm ready to take it on! I haven't heard or felt any of it so far, but I'm ready to put up a fight because it's something that I'm committed to. I'm more than willing to deal with the possible ramifications. guest-moxiegrl72: Do you prefer to act in TV shows or movies? And will you be doing more movies in the future? Michelle: I certainly hope to do more films. They are both such different mediums. Each has benefits and things that make it worthwhile, so it's hard to weigh one against the other. But I'd say that there's something more gratifying about film. guest-HerbertNYC: Are you web savvy? Do you ever use the internet? Michelle: No! It terrifies me! I don't understand it! I have a computer, but it's seldom used. I can't type, and I can't navigate the web. SHADOWBLADE20: Michelle how did it feel working on "HalloweenH20"? Michelle: It was a fun, breezy thing to do. I made a couple of great friends, and that made it worth while. guest-moxiegrl72: What was your all-time favorite movie growing up? Michelle: I loved "Winnie the Pooh" when I was really young! "Dirty Dancing" was an important part of my youth - the whole sexual awakening that happened. MandaSweety: If you could pick any co-star for a movie, who would it be, and why? Michelle: Sam Shepard, because he's brilliant. Not to mention good -looking :-) guest-HerbertNYC: I was in born in Wilmington, NC (where "Dawson's Creek" is filmed). How do you like working there? Michelle: I love the town itself - it's a really quaint, beautiful place. I grew up in a small town, so I feel at ease there. It's hard to be transported to a city away from family and friends though. guest-louisianna: Are you online at all? And what are your favorite websites if you are online? Michelle: No, I have no idea. MandaSweety: Who was your role model to become an actress? Michelle: I don't know that I can really pinpoint one specific person, as much as I was just enthralled with it all. I wanted to be a boxer at first! I was an exercise fanatic. I really liked boxing, and wanted to be the first female Heavyweight Champion of the World, but then I realized I was never going to be taller than 5'3, and it crushed my dream. Acting isn't sloppy seconds, though. I am really glad to have found it, and I wouldn't know what to do without it. It's been a great outlet. guest-SilverGirl: I Just wanted to say that I think it's really great that you decided to take on a lesbian role. Has this role in any way made you more open-minded, or were you already open-minded to the Gay and Lesbian issue before you did the role? Michelle: I was already enlightened ;-) But yes, it has made me more aware. guest-Karina: Michelle what kind of advice would u give for an aspiring actress? Michelle: Be really sure that it's the choice you want to make, because it's not easy sometimes. But persevere, because nothing really happens overnight. guest-roberta: This new movie is very polemic and I think it's wonderful when actors take the risk, but did you have second thoughts about making it? Michelle: No, I was excited and committed from the beginning. I didn't stop and think twice about the possible ramifications. And I haven't really looked back. guest-chazman: Have there been roles you haven't been able to accept because of your being on "Dawson's Creek"? Michelle: Yes, it's kind of a difficult situation when for 9 months of the year, you're busy. You pretty much sell your soul, and it cuts down on your options. haka15: Michelle I am a very big fan of "Dawson's Creek" and your movies and I was wondering if you received any harsh comments or ridicule for contributing to the nudity in the play you were in this past summer? Michelle: Ridicule?? There were people who questioned it, and were for some reason disappointed in me, that it wasn't a correct choice. This only makes me the more proud of it. And that play is something I will stand by forever. It's so hard to explain if you haven't seen it, but it was so much more than just nudity in an off-Broadway play. snuzke: I think that "Francis" is an incredible movie and much too hidden (i.e., no one's heard of it). Why are you drawn to Francis Farmer? Michelle: For a lot of reasons - the fact that she was misunderstood, and unable to be controlled or boxed in. She was strong and different and eccentric and talented. She had such a tragic story, too tragic to be real. It amazes me. guest-EZGuest62: Michelle are you anxious for "If These Walls Could Talk" 2 to premier on Sunday? Michelle: Yeah, I'm excited for it to come out, for people to see it. It's important, and it does good. guest-chazman: What was more scary..being naked on stage and screen, or being interviewed by Howard Stern? Michelle: LOL!!! Howard Stern! He was very nice and warm, but you never know what he's going to hit you with. There were a couple of things that were inappropriate, because there's nothing off-limits to him, but I knew what I was getting into when I agreed to do the project. angelphish_22: Michelle, do you like working with Joshua Jackson?? Michelle: He's a great person! He's hilarious, intelligent, well-spoken and well read. I like to argue with him! guest-Harper: Can you talk a little bit about your experience making "Dick." Michelle: I had never done something comedic before, and "Dick" was sort of an experiment in that sense, a trial. It was new and untouched territory, and I thought it would be interesting to see what it was like. And it was interesting! But I wouldn't do it again, because now I've already done it. guest-moxiegrl72: What other causes do you feel passionate towards? Michelle: There are so many important social causes. Everything - and it sounds so vague, but I mean it. It's kind of widespread. guest-keif: "Dick" was a great film that was completely underrated. Do you have a preference of comedy or drama? Michelle: I kind of prefer drama. I feel more comfortable with it. I don't feel very funny! I enjoyed the three month period of making "Dick" and being light-hearted and frivolous. guest-Manolis_Varnas: What are your other favorite shows on TV (besides "Dawson's Creek", of course!) Michelle: "South Park", and "Sex in the City." guest-marie: Of all the actresses you worked with on the set of this HBO movie, who did you most enjoy working with and why? Michelle: I don't think I could narrow it down or pick or choose. They're all extraordinary, and have been equal in their support and outpouring of warmth. guest-karma: Michelle I heard you like to write -- are you working on anything or planning on writing anything soon? Michelle: We finished the script that my two friends and I wrote. It was really consuming and difficult for me. I'm not naturally a writer, at least not for other people to read. I enjoy more writing for my own release. I write dirty limericks! LOL guest-will: I love you and I think you are the coolest person on TV! How does it make you feel when you meet your fans? Michelle: Well thank you! It makes me feel good - it's gratifying, and always nice to feel one is accepted. It's strange when you meet fans, because you don't really know for what reasons they like you. But it's a rewarding thing to see someone enjoy your work. guest-maddy: Do you find it difficult to separate you public life from your personal life with the intrusions and with people recognizing you all the time? Michelle: Yes, sometimes it's hard. There are instances where it's really inappropriate, and I don't want to be interrupted. I have to find a balance, and it's something new to me. So I'm still trying to understand that. NikeP2: Do you ever watch the episodes of "Dawson's Creek"? Michelle: I haven't actually seen an episode in a really long time. I'm usually working when it airs. I don't think it's really natural to watch yourself on TV - I can't be objective or watch it for its entertainment value. I end up evaluating my performance all the time. So I haven't seen a show for a while now. guest-Erin: Hey Michelle, you were great in Halloween! What was it like to work with Jamie Lee Curtis? Michelle: I love Jamie, and she's been a really good friend to me. She's a strong interesting woman. guest-Manolis_Varnas: Michelle do you plan to do any commercials in the future? Michelle: Haven't you seen my Hi-C ads out there? They're all the rage! LOL j/k :-) I don't know, really - what would I sell? guest-Spootnoofy: What's your favorite movie you've acted in so far? Michelle: My favorite role of all time would be the play "Killer Joe", but of course it wasn't a movie. My favorite movie, so far, would probably be "If These Walls Could Talk 2." guest-booth: Michelle, how has success changed your life so far? Michelle: I have better shoes. :-) There are huge ways, and then not at all. It affects your lifestyle, certainly, for better and worse, but it hasn't spoiled my friendships or changed my values. guest-Spootnoofy: Did you enjoy working on the film Lassie in 1994? Michelle: Sure. I was young... SusanIskiwitch: Michelle, what was it like working with Kevin Williamson? He seems amazing! Michelle: Kevin is an incredible man. He's talented, and had the ability to hop into something that really took off big in his films and publishing work. He's an extraordinary writer and a great man. guest-jenny: You have a great attitude in believing in your work. Where did you get it from? Michelle: I'm not quite sure how to answer that. I love what I do, I love my job. And I don't necessarily believe that my work is good, but I really try to make the right choices so that I'm honest and true to myself. guest-karma: Is there a book you wish that you could make into a movie and star in? Michelle: There are so many books that I love, but would be terrified to adapt - they're so dear to me I would be afraid to ruin them. "Cities of the Interior" is one. It would be impossible to adapt, but it's one of my favorite books. guest-cassandra: Have you seen any other movies lately that you liked? Michelle: I haven't really gotten out much. I think the last one I saw was "South Park" :-) guest-Spootnoofy: What was your first acting gig? Michelle: I'm not going to embarrass myself!!! I don't remember. guest-italian: In Italy you are considered a successful actress such as Leonardo Di Caprio. What do you think about it? Michelle: I don't really know what to think about that... I'm very flattered. I went to Venice once. It's a beautiful country. guest-harley: Michelle would you try to make a music career like most of the actors do? Michelle: No, I don't really have any musical talent! guest-Jmeniteow: Was this movie a nice break from "Dawson's Creek"? Michelle: Yes, it was. Playing the same character for nine months of the year for going on three years is really tough. It's monotonous at times, so this was a great opportunity to explore something else. guest-Tank_Commander: So, you like boxing - do you ever do training type stuff like hitting the heavy bag or speed bag, even just for fun? Michelle: No, I like to use walls. I don't box seriously any more, I just fool around. guest-gicki: Will you be watching the movie, when it airs on HBO? Michelle: I actually think I'm going to be on an airplane. But if I weren't, I'd watch it. guest-robert0259561: You attended a screening in NYC the other day. How did celebs and critics react to Walls2? Michelle: Everything that I heard was kind and positive. I don't know what they were saying behind my back though ;-) merleww2: Of all your performance which do you consider your absolute best? Which was the most fun to do? Michelle: I could never be objective, so I can't categorize what I think is the best. Of all my performances, I think I'd still go back to the play "Killer Joe" as the most fun. merleww2: Do you prefer complicated roles? Michelle: Absolutely! Yes! Yes! I like complicated people, and complicated characters that are interesting and dynamic and a contradiction in themselves. guest-Rachel: Are there any new story lines for Jen coming soon, because she's had no plot for months!!! Michelle: Tell me about it!! I really don't know what's going on or coming up. guest-EmilyAnderson: What are your goals for the future? Michelle: They all sound really cheesy. But to stay challenged, and be happy. guest-rhella: Has being a well-known actress made you feel isolated from the "real world" in any way? Michelle: No, I mean, I still pick up my dry cleaning and do normal things with normal people. It jars your life when someone comes up to you, because you're cognizant of being different, but it hasn't hindered me in any way. guest-Alex2000: I'm a huge fan Michelle, and it's real cool talking to you. What was the difference between doing a TV movie and a regular one? Michelle: The main thing was working with sort of a constrained schedule, and shooting something in three weeks, or whatever it was, as opposed to three months. Algrab: Will you be making any TV appearances? Michelle: Yeah, every Wednesday night at 8 or 9 p.m.! guest-Eneris: How has the role of Linda contributed to your development as an actor? Michelle: She was different from anybody else I ever played, and the more people that you personify, the bigger your repertoire grows and the better an actor you become. guest-CreekFreak: I met you before (outside the Soho Playhouse on the last day of the "Killer Joe" show) and u were so great-I just wanted to thank you-sorry this isn't a question. Michelle: Oh yeah, I remember you! HBO: Do you have any last comments you would like to leave with your fans this evening? Michelle: Everyone in California, vote NO on Prop. 22! Thank you for asking your questions, and for your support. HBO: Thanks for chatting, and be sure to watch Michelle in "If These Walls Could Talk 2."