Month: April 2012

1980's, Music

Eye Of The Tiger: My Journey With Survivor

This is a repost of a blog I wrote from last December. I will be seeing the band on Sunday with the classic voice for the first time in many years. It will be a surreal moment. If they come to your town, you NEED to see them.

It was a hot summer night almost thirty years ago when my neighbors drug my brother and I to the movies to see the third installment of the Rocky Balboa franchise. Not that we went kicking and screaming mind you. Any opportunity for teenage boys to get out of the house was most welcome. No, it’s just that we would have much preferred to see “Poltergeist” or better still, sneak into see the R-rated “Fast Times At Ridgemont High”. Looking back now though I’m glad we chose to consume large quantities of popcorn and Coke with Sly Stallone instead of Jeff Spicoli.

Rocky III was the film that first introduced me to Mr. T, the mo-hawked muscle man who would go on to pity fools for the remainder of the 1980′s and beyond. But Rocky III also introduced me to something else: something even more powerful than Mr. T’s gold chains or feathered earrings. It was also the film where I first heard the now infamous guitar riff for a song from a band that would change my life: Eye Of The Tiger by Survivor.

Written by Frankie Sullivan and Jim Peterik and sung by Dave Bickler (who would later achieve great fame as the singer on the Real Men Of Genius Bud Lite commercials), the theme from Rocky III is still as popular as ever three decades later. Along with winning a Grammy the song was also nominated for an Academy Award, became the #1 song of 1982, has to date over 2.5 million downloads on iTunes and ranks as the #3 best song to workout to according to Men’s Health magazine.

The band would strike Rocky gold again a few years later when the song “Burning Heart” was released as part of the Rocky IV soundtrack. Although this song didn’t fare quite as well as Tiger, the music from Survivor continues to be both inspirational and motivating to me. As you’ll soon discover, the seed planted with Eye of the Tiger would not only begin my admiration for the band but would ultimately become the spark that would fuel my life and music for years to come.

When I first started playing guitar in 1984 a new Survivor album was already making its way up the charts. Vital Signs was the first album to feature new singer Jimi Jamison on vocals and was the very first record I ever purchased. (Jamison would later go on to sing the infamous theme from the television show Baywatch). Songs like “I Can’t Hold Back“, “High on You” and “The Search is Over” were getting tremendous airplay on both radio and the early days of  MTV (back when they used to play music videos). These were songs with melodies and lyrics that really spoke to me. Words of encouragement in my love less adolescent youth. Songs I wanted to learn how to play.

So while most other aspiring guitarists were locked away in lesson rooms with their guitar teachers learning Van-Halen and Def Leppard solos I was dragging my butt in with a menacing jet black Gibson Explorer asking my teacher to show me how to play “I See You In Everyone“, the final song on the Vital Signs album, note for note.

Now that I think about it I can still recall the puzzled look on my teacher’s face when I brought the album to lesson for the first time. And I can still picture him saying: “What, no RUSH?….No AC/DC?…No Bon Jovi?” and I’d just smile and think to myself, “Nope, even better!” For how could I possibly tell a man who grew up watching artists like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin that the absolute best concert I ever saw in my life was Survivor and REO Speedwagon in 1985? But it was, and quite frankly still is, true.

By 1986 my longing for a new Survivor record was finally appeased. When Seconds Count was released and immediately consumed me. Songs like “How Much Love” and “Rebel Son” inspired a then seventeen year old boy to reach higher and the ballad “Man Against The World” made me want to track down keyboardist Jim Peterik himself and make him show me how to play its beautiful melody. By this point I think most of my friends knew that my whole Eye of The Tiger/Survivor phase wasn’t just a passing fad. In fact, one of my best memories of graduating high school was the post grad party my parents held where me and a bunch of other musician friends all set up our gear and played half of the Vital Signs record.

It wasn’t long before college came calling and once again Survivor was there with me. This time with 1988′s Too Hot To Sleep. I can’t begin to tell you how many trips across the miles of campus I made with “Didn’t Know it Was Love” and “Desperate Dreams” blaring on my Sony Walkman. Although the band themselves consider this to be their best album the fact that it didn’t achieve big commercial success didn’t bother me one bit. For me, much like them, it’s always been about the music and this one delivered the goods.

Once college life was over the job of real “work” began. While playing my part in the 9-5 crowd over the years I’d keep myself busy in the musical groove by writing and performing in various bands. All the while I’d find myself writing songs that were influenced by the amazing songs from those Survivor records. Unfortunately it would be quite a while before I would hear any new music from the band other than from compilation albums. Unless of course you count that hilarious Starbucks commercial.

Finally in 2006 a brand new album, Reach was released and listening to the first song and title track was a much welcomed slap in the face. The blaring guitars and drums told me that at long last the Tiger was back. I immediately proclaimed, to myself anyway, that this song should be the one they start every show with. This record not only featured guitarist Frankie Sullivan singing lead on few tracks but also contains the song “Fire Makes Steel”, yet another inspirational anthem which, go figure, was almost and should have been included in the film “Rocky Balboa”.

As you can see, I’m a huge fan of this band. I also know that the band has gone through several line-up changes over the years. Different singers, bass players and drummers have come and gone. There’s no need for me to know all the reasons why. I can personally attest to there being drama in every band so line-up changes are not at all that surprising. But it was unfortunate that Jimi Jamison, the voice that became synonymous with Survivor for me had left the group shortly after this record was released. Robin McAuley, most known for his work with McAuley Schenker Group would take over on lead vocals for subsequent tours over the next few years.

Flash forward to 2012: A surprise announcement was made that Jimi Jamison, who had released several well received solo albums since his departure five years ago, would once again be rejoining Survivor for a new album and tour. Having suffered for years listening to robotic voices and synthesized loops in what’s being peddled as “music” these days my prayers for real new music and songwriting from my favorite band is about to come true once again! To say that I’m excited is an understatement.

Ironically enough, it all seems to have come full circle for me. This “new” Survivor is going to happen nearly thirty years to the day since I first heard that guitar riff in the darkened movie theater. The summer night that changed everything for me. And the message of the song couldn’t be more true today:

Just a band and it’s will…to survive.

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

Beyond Elm Street: A Conversation With Actress Amanda Wyss
Amanda Wyss

In a word: “Amazing”.

That’s the best way to describe Amanda Wyss. Both as an actress and as a person.

Amanda’s deeply involved with Project Happiness, an organization that specializes in emotional resilience-building programs and provides proven techniques to cultivate one’s own authentic happiness. Its mission is to empower children, families and communities to create happier, more meaningful lives.

Amanda is also a very down to Earth person. She’s someone you’d easily want to have a conversation with over a pizza. Especially when you consider her body of work and the characters she’s hung around with.

As an actress, she’s sat behind Jeff Spicoli in history class, listened to music with Captain Jack Sparrow and was even the first person to dream about and have a rendezvous with bad boy Freddy Krueger.

One of the earliest performances I remember Amanda from also happens to be one of my favorite movies: “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”. A film where she plays Lisa, the girlfriend of Brad Hamilton (Judge Reinhold).

Its senior year and Brad is trying to figure out a way to break-up with Lisa but she inevitably beats him to the punch. But why anyone in their right mind would want to dump Amanda Wyss is still a mystery to me.

The film Amanda’s become most synonymous with though is “A Nightmare On Elm Street” where she will forever be remembered as Tina Gray, Freddy Krueger’s first victim. Not only was she Freddy’s first but here’s something that only true horror enthusiasts will know: Amanda Wyss is the very first face you see in the “Nightmare” franchise.

Amanda’s resume includes diverse roles in such films as “Better Off Dead”, “Silverado” and “Powwow Highway”, a film that won the Dramatic Filmmakers Trophy at the Sundance Film Festival and one of Amanda’s personal favorites.

In addition to film, Amanda has also worked extensively in television as well, having guest starred on such shows as “Highlander”,  “Cold Case”, “Dexter” and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”. Chances are, you’ve seen her in prime time and may not even have known it.

Amanda has recently gone back to her horror roots, having appeared as the waitress Darlene Atwood in the Brian Pulido directed film, “The Graves”.  She also appears in the film, “Deadly Impact” where she plays Julie Mulligan, a television news reporter covering a terrorist attack.

But one of her greatest moments for me personally was her performance as Tina Vincent, an obsessive “wife” of a serial killer in a multi-part episode of CSI. Maybe it was because she was channeling her inner “Freddy” at the time but one thing’s for sure: in that role, she was nothing short of amazing.

In this interview with Amanda we’ll talk about her role as Lisa in “Fast Times At Ridgemont High”. We’ll also discuss some of her other film projects including the original “A Nightmare On Elm Street”, a film put together on a shoe string budget that became a cult phenomenon (and one which also launched the career of a then unknown Johnny Depp).

Finally, we’ll find out what Amanda likes to do in her spare time and her plans for the future as well.

Amanda preparing to become Tina Vincent

goJimmygo (gJg): I just recently watched you for the first time as “Tina Vincent” on CSI. One of the best roles I’ve ever seen you do. You were amazing! Just the look in your eyes and the way you smiled at Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger). That was really intense.

Amanda Wyss (AW): Thank you!

gJg: How do you prepare for a role like that, to play a woman that obsessed?

AW: You know what? I just use my imagination. That’s my technique. I just sort of dive in. Tina Vincent was SO much fun to play because she was so madly in love with that crazy guy (Nate Haskell). It was really fun to do.

gJg: So, how about we begin by first going back to Ridgemont High?

AW: Sure, let’s go!

gJg: You played Lisa, Judge Reinhold’s love interest. How did the audition process go?

AW: I was actually called in for that specific role (as Lisa) and I remember the audition for it was fun and unique. Part of the process for me was having to do an improv with Judge Reinhold. The casting director, Bonnie Timmerman and Amy Heckerling (Director) were both there and it was a lot of fun.

gJg: I’ve heard rumors that Sean Penn was so into the role of Jeff Spicoli that he wanted everyone to call him by that name and even had the name put on his dressing room door. Is there any truth to that?

AW: <Laughs>. Honestly, I don’t remember that but I have heard about that rumor several times myself so it could quite possibly be true. Sean’s super talented and was very into his part. I think a lot of the surfer guys were, actually.

I do recall that there was a long rehearsal process and everyone had a chance to improv and prepare their characters. So I don’t think it was a situation where Sean just walked on to the set and said, “OK. Everyone call me Jeff Spicoli!” It was more of a slow process where everyone just became these fun high-school characters.

Fast Times At Ridgemont High

gJg: You looked like you were having such a great time on screen. Like when you’re sitting behind Sean in history class when the pizza comes. You had this look on your face like you were ready to just laugh.

AW: It was a very fun film to do with such talented young actors. Every day was really fun.

gJg: How did Ridgemont High compare to you own real-life high school experience?

AW: You know what’s funny? I actually grew up at the beach so I basically did go to school with all of those types of people. It was definitely my era. You know, we were all surfers. To some extent it was a very comical, slightly exaggerated view of the beach town that I grew up in.

gJg: Do you have a favorite scene from the movie?

AW: I don’t really have a favorite scene in particular. I look at it more as a whole. I adore it and certainly loved making it.

A Nightmare on Elm Street

gJg: Was the role of Tina in “A Nightmare on Elm Street” another that you were just called in for?

AW: Actually, we had all read for the role of Nancy (which eventually would go to Heather Langenkamp) and then for the call backs they split us up into groups.

I remember at the time reading with Heather and just thinking that we both really clicked together. I kind of had the feeling that we were going to get those parts. The best part is we’re actually still best friends from that movie. She’s amazing.

A Nightmare On Elm Street

gJg: Did you have any idea of how big the franchise would become in the horror genre?

AW: Quite honestly I had no idea. I loved the script and Robert Englund is so brilliant. I think it was because at the time I was young and wasn’t really that savvy or aware of all of the elements that make something last like that.

Obviously though, when it was completed and there was such a big reaction to it and after all of the positive initial reviews I was like, “Oh Wow!” But at the time, I had no idea that it would become this iconic, horror classic. I don’t think any of us did. Well, except for maybe Wes (Craven, Director) but he’s one of the smartest people alive. <laughs>

gJg: It was filmed on a low-budget too wasn’t it?

AW: It really was filmed on a super low-budget. It was a classic example of true indie-style, guerrilla film making. It just happened to have this magical group of people working on it whose combined energy gave audiences the sense of wanting to keep coming back for more. And I think that’s sort of the same thing that happened with “Fast Times” as well.

For whatever reason there’s something that happens sometimes when you mix the right combination of people and energy. No one really knows what it is. It’s just a magical mix that makes the movie stand out and last. Those two movies are good examples of that.

gJg: I worked at a drive-in while in high school and must have watched it dozens of times.

AW: You know, people have told me they’ve seen it a lot. I’ve actually seen it more in the last few years because of the reunions at horror conventions. When I watch it now with my distance from it I see it more as a film and not so much as one that I’m in. It really is a scary movie.

gJg: And you’re the centerpiece of it in a way. You’re actually the first person you see in the movie.

AW: I am. I’m actually also the first person to die in the entire franchise. <laughs>

gJg: How did your death scene work? Was that a rotating room?

AW: It was based on an old Fred Astaire movie. The room was built on this large sound stage and was positioned on a rotisserie type contraption. Everything in the room was either nailed down, glued down or taped down. It was made that way so nothing would move and as it turns around it appears as though I’m going up the wall and on to the ceiling.

gJg: Visually, it was very effective!

AM: I actually got vertigo from doing that scene. Everything was nailed down so perfectly that I had no visual cues that I was still on the floor. It was a great experience but it was pretty intense.

gJg: One of the scariest scenes I remember from the movie is when you’re running from him in the alley. He’s behind you and then all of a sudden you run right into him.

AW: That scene was actually filmed out in Venice around three o’clock in the morning. I remember it was freezing and the beach mist was starting to come in. It was pretty creepy. Not so much because we were out there filming a horror movie that’s filmed broken up in parts but just that the overall sense of it was creepy.

Behind The Scenes

gJg: What was it like working with Robert (Englund)?

AW: I absolutely loved working with Robert. He’s so imaginative and so hilarious. He’s also the best story-teller I’ve ever met.

gJg: Were there any funny stories that you remember while filming it?

AW: For me it wasn’t so much funny as much as it was gross. Every single day that I went to the set there was always something gross that I had to do.

It was always something like: Stand in a body bag…Lay in a body bag…Be covered in blood…Be covered in worms…Stand with eels. <laughs>

There was this one scene from the alley that was cut out where I had to pick up a trash can lid and underneath were a bunch of worms and they had to crawl all over my arms. The whole thing reminded me of those wilderness outward bound adventures to see what you’re made of. <laughs>

gJg: What did you think of the remake?

AW: You know, I haven’t seen it. I’ve heard mixed reviews about but haven’t seen it myself.

gJg: What was it like working with Johnny Depp in his first movie?

AW: Johnny was so sweet. We were all so young and had so much fun. I didn’t work with him all that much but he was exactly how you’d picture him to be. Really creative and interesting.

Amanda in Powwow Highway

gJg: I read where one of the movies you’re most proud of is “Powwow Highway“ Tell me a little about that film.

AW: That’s one of my favorite movies. It was a cool group of people and is actually based on a true story. It was a powerful Native American piece and I got to play that crazy Texan.

gJg: What was it like filming in all of those locations?:

AW: The locations were beautiful. We filmed in Montana, Wyoming and Santa Fe, New Mexico. We also filmed it between November and March and I remember FREEZING while we were on location. You know, it’s snowing and 18 degrees and you’re standing outside trying to pretend you’re not cold. <laughs>

gJg: What was it like for you personally as an actress when it won at Sundance?

AW: I’m so proud of that movie. It actually won when it wasn’t really the “scene” for actors to go to festivals and support their projects. For it to win a Jury award at Sundance is sort of a badge of honor for me.

Amanda and crew in "The Graves"

gJg: Let’s talk a little about one of your newest films, “The Graves“. What was it like revisiting the horror realm and filming that movie?

AW: That movie was a really fun film too. I got to play Darlene the waitress.

The Ronalds brothers (Brian and Dean) produced it and are both in the movie as well and Brian Pulido directed it. Brian is an amazing artist and graphic novelist.

We filmed it in this spooky old mining town in Arizona. It was a real fun group of people to work with. It was also fun for me to revisit the horror genre again as an adult.

gJg: Have you ever thought about directing or producing?

AW: I would like to move to the other side of the camera. I’ve actually been shadowing a few people so I’m looking forward to the opportunity of directing.

Amanda Wyss

gJg: What do you like to do when you’re not acting?

AW: I love Yoga and I love to read. I read everything. I also like to go to movies and visit museums.

gJg: What’s your favorite book?

AW: My favorite is “A Prayer for Owen Meany“. I love that book.

gJg: What projects do you have coming up?

AW: I actually have two web series projects we’re about to start work on. One is horror themed and the other is more of a light-hearted comedy. We’re producing them together. I’m going to be in the light-hearted comedy and make some appearances in the horror one as well.

gJg: They sound interesting!

AW: I’m very excited about them. They’re really well written and have really good directors attached to them.

There’s also another project I’m involved with where someone is using my likeness for a graphic novel. It’s about vampires which I absolutely LOVE. They’re my favorite part of the horror genre.

gJg: Are there any people  you’d like to work with or projects you’d like to be a part of in the future?

AW: I’d like to be in a Steven Spielberg project someday because he just has such an epic imagination. Then there’s Joss Whedon (love his projects), George Clooney (both as director and actor), Helen Mirren, Debra Winger… the list goes on!

I would love to be a part of shows like “Walking Dead”, “Fringe”, “American Horror” and “Game Of Thrones”.

And I really adore the independent film world. The cool, interesting creative projects that are done under the radar. There are so many great young filmmakers out there I’d like to work with. People like Adam Green for example.

I’d also like to work with Sean Penn again. He is just amazing and always has a lot of interesting projects.

gJg: You’re amazing too. I’m so glad I got the chance to speak with you!

AW: Thanks! It was my pleasure.

For more on Amanda be sure to check out her Facebook page and follow her on Twitter!

Article first published as Beyond Elm Street:: A Conversation with Actress Amanda Wyss on Technorati.

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

A Conversation With Actress Michelle Page
Michelle Page

Michelle Page has arrived.

An amazing young actress whose love of the art began at the early age of four following frequent family trips to the theater, Michelle has been honing and perfecting her craft ever since. And her hard work is paying off.

Having made her mark in commercials, television and film, she’s someone who’s performances you’re sure to remember.

Michelle’s already made appearances on shows like “CSI: New York”, “Castle” and “Cold Case” and starred alongside Sandra Bullock and Robert Picardo in films like “Miss Congeniality 2″ and “Sensored” respectively.

Michelle can also add “scream queen” to her resume as evidenced by one of her recent movies, the psychological-thriller “Rogue River” which will be released in the US on June 5th.

Michelle plays the role of Mara, a distraught girl whose father has recently passed away. After saying goodbye to her brother (Chris Coy) she embarks on a journey to the place where the family had spent many camping trips together to scatter her father’s remains.

In her moment of grief and reflection she encounters Jon (Bill Moseley), a seemingly nice-enough gentleman who offers her a ride back into town after her car is towed. Mara decides to take him up on the offer and it’s a decision she will forever regret.

“Rogue River”, directed by Jourdan McClure also features the talents of Lucinda Jenney (“Crazy/Beautiful”) and Michael Cudlitz (“Southland”).

In this interview with Michelle, we’ll learn all about this amazing actress and her journey to “Rogue River”. A role that not only required her to turn on the tears but also tested her physical toughness as well. We’ll also discuss what future projects she has planned as well as what she likes to do when she’s not acting.

goJimmygo (gJg): Michelle, it’s so great to speak with you!

Michelle Page (MP): You too!

gJg: “Rogue River” is going to be released in the US on June 5th is that correct?

MP: Yes, June 5th and I’m very excited about it. I’ve just recently watched it again while we were filming the DVD commentary and it was so good to see it again and remember everything about it.

gJg: Were you always a fan of the horror genre?

MP: Actually, I’m one of those people who gets scared really easily by them. But I love acting in them! <laughs>

gJg: What attracted you to the role of Mara in “Rogue River”?

MP: I had a supporting role in a film Kevin Haskin wrote and produced called “Sensored” with Robert Picardo. Kevin co-wrote “Rogue River” along with Ryan Finnerty and thought I’d be great in the role of Mara. He was right. Once I read the script I immediately called him up and said: “YES!”

gJg: What did you like about the script?

MP: I loved how unique and twisted the story was. The role was right up my alley. Of course, I was just thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Kevin and Jo Haskin (Producers) again. I was honored that they wanted me to do this project with them.

gJg: Did you know at the time that Bill (Moseley) was also going to be involved?

MP: I was actually the first person cast so I wasn’t aware. I passed the script along to Adam Targum and Zachery Ty Bryan who produced it and we got the ball rolling.

Shortly there-after Bill, Lucinda (Jenney) Michael (Cudlitz) and Chris (Coy) all came on board. We filmed for about a month in Oregon.

gJg: What was it like working with such amazing actors?

MP: It was fantastic. First, to be working alongside of Bill Moseley was fantastic. I learned so much from him. Lucinda Jenney (Lea) I remembered from “Crazy Beautiful” and absolutely loved her. She and Bill are a couple in real-life and having them together for this film just added a unique dynamic to the project.

Chris Coy (Andrew) is so talented. I just adore him. Then of course there was Michael as the cop. He is such a great actor. We really were blessed with a great cast and crew.

gJg: What was it like working with director Jourdan McClure?

MP: Jourdan was awesome! He’s just a natural. He knew exactly what he wanted and was just so laid back. “Rogue River” is actually Jourdan’s first feature-length film and there’s something so special about that. He was just so passionate and really wanted to make it the best movie it could be. He really put everything into it and it worked.

gJg: The cinematography in this movie is absolutely incredible. The Oregon scenery is breath-taking.

MP: It really is. Brian Hamm was our cinematographer. He also worked with me on “Sensored” as well and is such a genius. It looks creepy and beautiful at the same time.

gJg: One of reasons I loved you in this role was the way you could just turn on the tears. Can you do that on cue?

MP: <laughs> Yeah. It was all real. People always ask me if they’re fake tears. I’m known to be a good crier and in this role you sort of had to be. Mara was just so tortured. It called for it.

Michelle as Mara in "Rogue River"

gJg: Were there any funny stories from the set you can remember?

MP: Yes! We had these wild turkeys roaming around in the woods and every time I would scream and cry the turkeys would respond in unison. <laughs>

So, here you’d have a scene filled with all of this drama and tears and then all of a sudden you’d hear: “Gobble! Gobble! Gobble!” <laughs>

Then there was also the scene where I actually got hit in the head and got a concussion.

gJg: Really?

When we were filming the commentary for the DVD it was hard for me to watch it again. <laughs>.  My heart started racing and I suddenly remembered how badly it hurt.

gJg: What do you like most about the movie?

MP: I really love the scene where Bill and I meet down by the river. It sets the tone of the film really nicely. I love it because Bill’s just so charming and instantly connects with me. I thought it was shot beautifully.

gJg: What projects do you have coming up?

MP: I actually have another horror film project written by Todd Langseth coming into fruition called “Stingy Jack”. Bill is also attached to that project as well as Michael Berryman (“The Hills Have Eyes”). I’m really excited about it.

I also have another film I did called “The Party is Over” with Kathy Baker from “Picket Fences”. That one should be coming out soon.

gJg: What do you like to do when you’re not acting?

MP: I love traveling and photography. I’m also a bit of a book nerd. I really love escaping in books. I’ll read pretty much anything and everything. It’s even gotten to the point where I’ve told myself I have to stop going to Barnes and Noble <laughs>

gJg: Tell me about how you first got into acting.

MP: Growing up, my parents used to take my brother and me to the theater all the time. I think that’s what created this great love of the arts for me.

When I was four I went to one of the top children’s theaters in Fort Worth and sat in the front row to watch “Miracle on 34th Street”. I still remember at that moment telling my Mom that this was what I wanted to do with my life. She told I’d have to wait a few years and then she would put me into classes.

So a few years later I started taking classes at that very same theater and coincidentally, they decided to remake “Miracle on 34th Street” again only this time I was cast as the lead (Susan Walker) and got to perform for over 20,000 people!

gJg: Where did you go from there?

MP: I continued to work for years doing theater in the local area and then started getting into commercials. An agent eventually saw my work when I was 15 and I was off to LA.  I’ve been here ever since and it’s been absolutely great!

gJg: In addition to your movie roles you’ve actually done quite a bit television work as well including a recent episode of “CSI: New York”.

MP: Yes! It originally aired in October. That was a fantastic experience. And what’s interesting about that particular show is that Adam Targum, who produced “Rogue River” also wrote and produced that episode of “CSI: New York”.

I’ve worked with Adam three times now and just adore him. Gary Sinese is another amazing actor. I loved working with him too. He is the nicest guy.

gJg: What do you find are the differences between filming for a movie as opposed to television?

MP: TV works much faster. You’re on a tight schedule. A drama might take eight days of shooting. You have to get everything done and it moves very quickly.

For a film, you have the luxury of having a bit more time to work with the character and develop it. That’s the difference but I love to do both!


If her past work is any indication, the future looks extremely bright for Michelle Page!

Article first published as A Conversation With Actress Michelle Page on Technorati.

Movie Reviews

Movie Review: The Cabin In The Woods

I am a huge fan of 80’s horror movies. Always have been. I still recall the days of getting giddy whenever a new Friday The 13th or Nightmare on Elm Street movie was released.

Horror films sure have come a long way since the days when Jason and Freddy roamed aimlessly around. Truth be told, not many good ones are being released theatrically anymore. Perhaps it’s because the whole concept of horror movies has changed. Every idea has pretty much been used up.

That’s why when films like “Paranormal Activity” come around they are so successful. Its something we haven’t seen before and it makes the whole genre exciting again. At least for me.

Which leads me to “The Cabin In The Woods”. A film that has its own connection to the movies I loved. Heather Langencamp, who played Nancy in the original “A Nightmare on Elm Street” movie, is a production coordinator for this one.

Following a typical formula, a group of students (Kristen Connolly, Fran Kranz, Chris Hemsworth, Jesse Williams and Anna Hutchison) embark on a trip to…(wait for it)… a cabin in the woods to partake in a weekend of merriment.

There’s the tough guy athlete, the promiscuous girl, the smart dude, the stoner and the virgin. I know, we’ve all seen them before in dozens of films but go with me on this one.

When the group stops for gas and directions along the way a creepy attendant warns them that getting there isn’t the problem but coming back is. Something just isn’t right at the cabin and before too long they all, well the one’s who are left anyway, will discover the truth.

Here are my thoughts on “The Cabin In The Woods”. Although I’ll be careful not to give away too much I am still posting a “Spoiler Alert”. So, read on at your own risk:

What I Liked:

1. Kristen Connolly: When I first saw her in the opening scenes it quickly reminded me what I loved most about these types of movies. She has an amazing quality to her that entices you to keep watching.

2. The secret behind the cabin: Without giving anything away, the reason is pretty cool and something we haven’t seen before in horror.

3. The shout out to REO Speedwagon, one of my all time favorite bands. Very cool and very in your face.

4. The use of the “formula”: Although I don’t condone it, it was kind of funny to see the recreational drug use, brief nudity and funny one-liners again from people scared out of their wits. All staples of the 80’s films.

What I didn’t like:

1. The cinematography: It’s dark outside. I get that. But there were many scenes in this movie where I couldn’t tell what was going on. Not because I couldn’t follow the plot but because I couldn’t physically “SEE” it on the screen. It was even hard to discern what types of weapons were being used at times.

2. CGI: The use of this was a bit over the top at times and sort of changed the dynamic from a horror film to more like a comic book.

3. The Use of The “F” Word: Ok, maybe I’m nit-picking here a bit but c’mon, is there really a need to yell at a TV screen and say it a bunch of times in a row? Sometimes I think this is done just to help promote the “R” rating.

Fans of classic horror slasher films and those longing for new take on it will love “The Cabin in The Woods”. If for no better reason than to discover the secret it holds.

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

A Conversation With Actor Oliver Muirhead
Oliver Muirhead

Oliver Muirhead has a sense of familiarity about him. He’s a person you feel comfortable with when you see him on-screen. It’s almost as if you’ve known him for years and the truth of the matter is, you probably have.

Whether you’ve seen him in the dozens of movies and television shows he’s appeared in or perhaps best remember him as the face of Polaroid film or Tombstone pizza, whenever you see him it’s like seeing a good friend.

Oliver’s resume includes roles as a priest (“LOST”), a waiter (“Kenan and Kel”), and a British Colonel (“Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me”).  He’s even appeared in the Academy Award winning film, “The Social Network”.

In one of his current roles he plays Bernard, the father of a young Anna (Felicity Jones) in the movie “Like Crazy“. A film which, among many other accolades, won two Sundance Film Festival awards and received plenty of its own Oscar buzz .

In my interview with Oliver we’ll discuss his role in “Like Crazy” along with some of his other interesting projects including his stint as a writer and his obsessive hobby as a baker.

gJg: Whenever I would see you on-screen, I’d often say to myself, “I know this man from somewhere.” But I couldn’t figure it out. Then one day it just dawned on me: “I KNOW – he’s the guy who wanted pepperoni and cheese on his Tombstone pizza!

OM: That’s correct. <Laughs>… Among many other advertisements.

gJg: What other commercials were you in?

OM: Well, for a long time I was the face of Polaroid One film. Of course, now film is pretty much obsolete but it was a very nice gig to have.

gJg: I wanted to talk to you a little bit about your role in “Like Crazy”.

OM: It’s a sweet movie and was great fun to do.

gJg: The thing I personally liked most about it (aside from the wonderful performances of course) was the ending.

OM: I think it ends on a very realistic note.

gJg: It’s very much true to life.

OM: My wife actually went to a screening shortly before the movie came out. The audience there was mostly older and their reaction to it was interesting. About 40% of the audience thought the relationship was going to fail and 60% felt it was going to succeed.

What’s really nice is that younger people seem to have resonated with it.

gJg: I think it’s because they can relate to it.

OM: I was asked to describe the movie while standing on the red carpet. It was one of those situations where they wanted an immediate sound bite and the one thing that immediately came to mind was this:

“Love destroyed by modern life.” That pretty much sums it up.

gJg: How did the role of Bernard come about for you?

OM: It was an audition process but one in which the audition itself was improvised.

gJg: I’ve actually read quite a bit about the use of improvisation being used during the filming of this movie.

OM: All of the scenes that I was in were improvised. Obviously, there were some scenes that we needed to use “official” dialogue to be realistic, like the scene with the immigration official and the marriage scene for example. But I’ve actually had a lot of experience with improvisation.

Oliver Muirhead and Alex Kingston

gJg: It came across as very realistic.

OM: It did. In fact Alex (Kingston) and I had a relationship within about three minutes. I’m not sure if it was because we were both mature English actors or the fact that we both grew up about three miles from each other. She grew up in Worcester Park and I grew up in Raynes Park.

gJg: Small world.

OM: Yeah, basically. We both felt a great connection with the roles and were able to establish who our characters were and what they did very quickly. We knew what class we were, we knew what she did, what I did, what music we had listened to. We just “got” it. We completely agreed and after that, it was simple.

gJg: Were there any interesting stories that you remember while filming the movie?

OM: Actually, yes. There’s this one scene where we’re supposed to be playing this board game and we all had sworn that we had played the game before. Of course, none of us had ever played it. We were just lying through our teeth. <laughs>

But Drake (Doremus, Director) said, “Oh good because that’s a game I grew up playing.” So he explained to us how to play the game and it’s one of those games where you have to invent a definition for a word or a phrase. There were quite a few different categories. Some were silly laws and some were silly words.

One of mine was a silly law category that said: “In the State of Tennessee, it is illegal…”

And so I wrote: “For more than forty virgins to be on a tramp steamer”… Which was not at all that funny.

Alex; however, found it so funny that she laughed hysterically for nearly two minutes which, of course made all of us weep with laughter as well. There was nothing Drake could do. He just had to run the film. <laughs>

So we had a lot of fun. The kids were great. I thought they were very well cast. Felicity (Jones) is very pretty and very sweet. It’s nice to have an on-screen daughter who’s as wonderful as my own daughter off-screen.

gJg: Are you more interested in those types of serious roles as opposed to ones in movies like Austin Powers? Which types of roles do you personally like to do more?

OM: I love acting so it doesn’t really bother me what I’m doing. I really enjoyed doing “Like Crazy” though because I could play a character that I knew so well. I’m not playing a spy for example. I’m not playing somebody who’s a long way away from who I am. Not to say that I’m a business man because that’s what Bernard was but I based it on someone I knew really well.

I also had the support of Alex so I didn’t have to worry. It wasn’t about the lines that we had to learn and then try to fit our characters into.

“Like Crazy” was sort of a Cinderella story. It was made for very little money. It went to Sundance. It won Sundance. Then got a lot of Oscar buzz.

Oliver Muirhead as Monsignor

gJg: Let’s talk a little bit about the diversity from some of your other roles. In “LOST” for example, you played a Cardinal. What was that experience like?

OM: It was a lovely experience. I got to play an Australian Cardinal and wound up flying over to Hawaii to film with two actors that I know and like very, very much.

gJg: That worked out well for you!

OM: When you go on location like that you’re pretty much on your own. It can be fun but after the first couple of days sometimes you find that there can be absolutely nothing to do. But these guys both happened to be in my scene and we just had a wonderful time.

gJg: Did you know about the premise of the show?

OM: Yes, everyone was aware of “LOST”. I actually have a lot of friends who did the show. There was this slightly surreal atmosphere with all of the weird back stories going on and no one knew exactly what was going on. I think that mystery really put an interesting quality into how people performed.

In most movies and TV shows you know the beginning, the middle and the end. There is no mystery. But in this case, you weren’t really quite sure what the ultimate outcome was going to be.

Children’s shows

gJg: You’ve had quite a bit of success with children’s shows as well.

OM: Yes. I was fortunate to actually be in a bunch of those types of movies and TV shows when my daughter was growing up. I was very lucky that I did a lot of material that she could watch. I was a mean sculptor in i-Carly and I was also in Kenan & Kel.

This next story might sound as though I’m making it up but I assure you it’s true:

Oliver on Kenan and Kel

It was my daughter’s birthday and we were getting ready to go out for the day when I was offered a job.

Now, that was very nice but unfortunately it also means that we were going to have to cancel the day. Except for the fact that it was for a part on Kenan and Kel, which was her absolute favorite show at the time.

So she came to the taping and they made a great fuss of her. It was marvelous.

On Writing


gJg: I was reading where you’ve written quite a few books too.

OM: Yes. I written under another name, George Mole, in what used to be called “humor”.

gJg: Tell me a bit more about it.

There was a revival of classic British humor books back in the early 80’s. Mostly books of drawings and written text. Myself and my illustrator Steven Appleby, who has become a very well-known cartoonist, worked on several books together.

We also wrote for Punch magazine which at the time was a bit like climbing Mount Everest. It was about as good as it gets. I like to think that writing for Punch was a bit like writing for the New Yorker. It sort of meant that you’ve “arrived” and it was very gratifying.

gJg: Do you still write?

From time to time I still write but I think the Internet has changed the whole dynamic. We’ll have to see where it goes but it was fun.

Bread:

gJg: What else do you like to do when you’re not acting or writing?

OM: I love baking bread. It’s became an obsessive hobby. Unlike my golf game, which I could tell you about and hear you’re snoring in the background. But if we’re sitting down together and I had just baked a loaf of bread you’re more inclined to say something like, “Ooh, can I have some?” <laughs>

People are much more prepared to hear me discuss the technique of baking bread. It’s a magical process. Taking a plant product and basically just adding water to it.

And thanks to a bunch of really smart people you can make brilliant bread at home. At least comparable to what’s marketed in stores. You can rival the best bread out there with just your home oven. It’s not rocket science.

What’s fascinating is that people are willing to talk about bread in a way that they wouldn’t talk about wine. Most people are intimidated by wine but they’ll talk to you freely about bread and tell you exactly what they like about it.

A friend of mine, who had just come back from Ireland once asked me if I could make him some Irish soda bread. I said, “Sure.”

I made it and afterwards he told me that it wasn’t quite right. So I asked him what wasn’t right about it and after he had told me a week or so later I made it for him again and this time he said, “THAT’S IT! That’s exactly it!”  <laughs>

I also know a French baker who has been working in the bakery since he was 14. He would make croissant and it tasted as if he had flown them in from Paris. It wasn’t something like, “Oh these are very good and here we are in America” but rather, “This.. is a French croissant.” He had manipulated the flour in such a way that it was absolutely perfect. I’ve been able to get very close to that and I can make it here in America.

So, it’s a fun hobby. It’s not very expensive and the best part of all, even your mistakes are pretty delicious. <laughs>

gJg: Is there anything else you like to do in your spare time?

OM: I love gardening. In fact, if there was a Gardening Olympics the English team would win. I have a lovely garden here in California where everything grows like a weed and even the weeds look nice. <laughs>

Current projects

gJg: Can you tell me a little bit about your role in “The Sum of 9: The Chosen Ones”?

OM: I get to play a mean headmaster. It’s in the horror genre which is a genre I haven’t done in quite a long time but was excited to do again. The thing I love about horror is that the fans are so unbelievably loyal.

gJg: They really are.

OM: It’s also one of the genres where you can get away with a lot of stuff. You’re allowed to do things because its “horror” that you wouldn’t get away with if it was a drama or a comedy. You have great deal of freedom. I’m looking forward to doing it.

gJg: What other projects do you have coming up?

OM: I’ve just finished playing the lead role in a movie called “Window of Opportunity” which is based on a play about corporate malfeasance. I play Roger Sizemore, the CEO, who strangles someone during a weekend of drinking and debauchery.

It’s a very dramatic movie shot in a very short period of time with a wonderful cast and crew including Phil Proctor who plays Carl Everett, my CFO financial guy.

gJg: Is there a time-table for its release?

OM: Right now it’s in post production so there’s no real-time frame for its release. John Densmore, the drummer from The Doors, is a producer of the film.  I think he’ll also be involved in the music for it as well.

gJg: You’ve really had quite a successful run of projects recently!

OM: The last few years have been great fun. Sometimes you might only do comedies or guest starring roles for a while but this has been a nice run with a little bit of everything. It’s been wonderful.

Article first published as A Conversation With Actor Oliver Muirhead on Technorati.

Movies and TV, Thought and Opinion

The Power of Infomercials

Some people say that if you just keep saying the same message over and over people will eventually start to believe it. Just ask anyone who complains about people who watch the Fox News Channel or listen to any progressive radio station.

Those media outlets are geared toward people with a particular way of thinking. It’s all feeding the sheep what they want to hear and perhaps even using subliminal messages to help get their point across.

In some ways I suppose its similar to what they did at the movies years ago. There were some theaters who, in their quest for profits would splice in a split second of extra film into the main feature with an image of popcorn. Even though you were unaware of it, your brain had subconsciously picked up on that popcorn image and before too long you were making a bee-line for the concession stand because you suddenly had the urge to have some.

And please don’t get me started about the splicing use in the movie “Fight Club”.

I like to think that for the most part people are pretty smart in making up their minds over who to vote for or whether or not to eat popcorn. My problem with what I like to call “influential media” is that it can not only lean our decision-making in one direction or the other but it can also bankrupt us as well.

Confused?

There comes a time, usually in the middle of the night if you really want to know, when the mind really does become susceptible to the influence of messages made on television. And these messages don’t come from a political news network. They come in the form of advertising. Those late-night infomercials that peddle everything from exercise programs to space-age blenders.

I can’t even begin to tell you how many sleep deprived nights I’ve spent perusing the channels in a desperate search for a Three Stooges or MASH marathon but instead come across the P90x infomercial. Even though I had seen the entire thing dozens of times and could mimic Tony Horton’s every word, I still had to watch.

So there I was, sitting like a lazy log on the sofa with blood-shot eyes very much pissed that I was going to be useless at work the next morning but parroting every line: “This ain’t no aerobics class from the seventies”….”Do your best and forget the rest!”…

Now I consider myself to be in reasonable shape. I eat right and exercise regularly but still, had a laptop with an internet connection and my credit card been within arm’s reach I may have pulled the trigger right then.

The images I saw: the ripped abs…the sculpted shoulders. I could look that way! And in only ninety days!

That program was immediately followed by an hour-long Montel Williams “special” on the benefits of juicing. Of course, using the only machine he’s found to do the job right.  And one which coincidentally bears his name.

Hmmmm? Exercise AND juicing… The perfect combination. Now this was getting very tempting. I quickly surmised that for both items it would “only” cost me around $400. But I could always use their “easy” payment plan!

Once Montel gave me my final chance to “call now” the urge became too great. I began to reach for the credit card but that’s when something amazing happened. The crazy guy who peddles pillows came on the screen. Now who would ever have thought to do a half-hour commercial just to sell a pillow?

I began watching people sleeping using his soft, comfortable, cool pillow.

God bless the pillow man. His schtick put me to sleep within fifteen minutes and saved me a bundle.

Interview, Movie Reviews

Experience The Devil’s Carnival

“Step right up and don’t be shy. Because you will not believe your eyes.”

The classic line that begins an old Tubes song is also the perfect introduction for “The Devil’s Carnival“, a musical movie-going experience unlike any you’ve ever seen.

Director Darren Bousman (“SAW” as well as the upcoming “Mother’s Day” remake) along with writer Terrance Zdunich (“Repo! The Genetic Opera“) are literally taking their demonic show on the road stopping at various locations across the United States. It’s a horror-musical experience not to be missed.

Featuring three stories based on familiar Aesop fables but set in the fiery pit itself, the movie includes such stars as Briana Evigan (“Step it Up 2”, “Mother’s Day”), Paul Sorvino (“GoodFellas”), Bill Moseley (“The Devil’s Rejects”) and J. LaRose (“SAW”).

But “The Devil’s Carnival” is much more than just a movie. It’s an interactive experience for fans to be a part of. Complete with live entertainment, celebrity sightings, give-aways and a question and answer session with the creators themselves.

I was fortunate to be able to speak with Darren and Terrance as they made their way into Atlanta for yet anther stop on the tour. I also had the opportunity to speak with the amazing Briana Evigan, (who plays Ms. Merrywood) and get her thoughts on what people can expect to see from “The Devil’s Carnival”.

Darren Bousman (Director):

gJg: Darren, what’s the reaction from The Devil’s Carnival Tour been like so far?

DB: It’s great. There’s really no way to describe it. It’s part rock concert, part side-show and part movie-screening. By doing it in this way you get such a great reaction from fans. Much more so than if you were doing just a regular movie screening.

gJg: What makes the experience so unique?

DB: Every night there’s some sort of live performance, whether it be burlesque or freak or men juggling knives. It’s just crazy and the crowd goes wild for these things.

gJg: Why did you decide do it as an “experience” and not just a typical screening?

DB: The market has been so over-saturated with film makers, directors and movies that it’s become so hard to find a release for anything. When I started off doing “SAW” I had 3,000 – 4,000 screens. Then with each subsequent release I lost more and more screens. My last movie only saw something like 6 screens.

So you spend years of your life working on something and it’s basically shown on a half-dozen screens. It makes you want to just sit in the bathtub with a bottle of vodka and cry yourself to sleep.

But instead, I just said, “Screw It!” I wasn’t going to allow myself to follow the trend of making movies that go straight to DVD or movies that no one ever sees. If I don’t get the reaction I want out of the people who put my movies out then I’m just going to do it myself. So we just decided to get in a van and do this tour.

gJg: So what’s the premise of “The Devil’s Carnival”?

DB: That’s a hard question to answer. The Devil’s Carnival asks the question: “Can you get people to get off their couches and go experience something that is undefinable?”

The entire Devil’s Carnival is a 2 1/2 hour experience. Part of it is the movie, part of it is a live show, part of it is give-aways and part of it is a behind the scenes “Repo” documentary.

Now if you ask what the movie is, it’s a hybrid of “Tales from The Crypt” meets the anti -“Glee”. I’ve always been fascinated with the macabre. I love dark stories and I also love musicals. So it’s kind of like mixing the dark macabre stories in a musical based format. It’s actually three different stories that are being told in hell. The wrap around is these crazy carnies and Lucifer himself.

But unlike “Tales From The Crypt”, this film has a linear structure. It’s a modern retelling of Aesop fables set in hell. We’re doing the classic “Scorpion and the Frog” but its done in a modernized, over the top, grandiose kind of way.

gJg: What are your plans for it after the tour is over?

DB: We’d really like to start work on episode two. This is the first part of many others we hope to be doing. We really want to make an impact and get people talking about it. If that happens, we’d love to start filming part two right away.

What’s really exciting about this project is that there’s instant gratification for me as a film maker. Take “Mother’s Day” as an example. I LOVE that film. I made it three years ago and it’s still sitting on a shelf somewhere. It’s finally going to be released but it just killed me that for years it just sat on a shelf. 

What’s great about this is that I control my own fate. We booked the theaters.  We booked the hotels. We bought and printed and sell the merchandise. We did everything. There’s no one out side of us who’s doing anything and that’s awesome.

So if it fails it’s because of us. If it fails it’s because we did not do our jobs correctly and I’ll have no one to point the finger at. I can’t blame the big, bad studio or anyone else. It’s our fault. By that same token, if it succeeds it’s also because of us. It’s because of our passion and our drive.

It’s a scary position to be in but i love it.

gJg: It’s total control.

DB: Exactly.

gJg: You’ve also brought back a lot of people from “Repo! The Genetic Opera” for this film as well.

DB: We did. We brought back Paul Sorvino, Bill Moseley, Alexa Vega, Ogre from Skinny Puppy. Oh, and my favorite by far is J LaRose who plays “Major” – he’s in the car with me right now and just reminded me that he was in “Repo!” too.

What’s cool is that I find people who I like to work with. We’re like a family. A very dysfunctional family, but a family none-the-less.

gJg: “Mother’s Day” with Rebecca De Mornay is finally being released. Is there anything you’d like to say about it?

DB: Yes, it comes out this Mother’s Day on a handful of screens and then on DVD the following week. I also have “11-11-11” which is going to be released on DVD so watch for that was well.  

Terrance Zdunich (Writer)

gJg: Hey Terrance, it’s great to speak with you.

TZ: You too. Sorry for the way I sound. Darren and I are literally in a van driving across the country right now.

gJg: How did the story for “The Devil’s Carnival” come about for you?

TZ: I wrote the screen play and co-wrote the music with my writing partner Saar Hendelman. As a fan, I like to write about things that I’d want to see and especially with the shortage in the dare I say, sophisticated “horror musical” market.

For me, It was inspired by amusement park dark rides. As I kid I really enjoyed hopping on those rides that also involved music. That’s sort of where “The Devil’s Carnival” began. Then it just grew on that over the last couple of years to what it is now.

gJg: What’s your musical background?

TZ: Music has always been a big part of my life. My Dad played guitar. When I was in grade school and high school I was in the marching band. I’ve also played in rock and roll bands and did some musical theater for quite a while.

I guess in a way you could say that I’m returning to my marching band roots with “The Devil’s Carnival” because it involves primarily a sort of demonic marching band. There’s no electronic instrumentation in it what so ever.

gJg: I asked Darren this question so I’ll ask you too: Why is this an “experience” and not just a film?

TZ: It came down to the fact that we really wanted to do it and projects like this just aren’t getting green lighted. We didn’t want to wait or ask permission and get approval for it so we decided on this road tour idea instead.

Right now, we’re doing what we like and the fans are responding to it! It’s pretty exciting. The film stands well on it’s on but the experience of it is really the main event.

gJg: And you get to play the ultimate bad guy in this one.

TD: Yeah, but I think in some ways Lucifer is the good guy in a round about sort of way. <laughs>

gJg: Really?

TZ: He’s not passing judgement because that’s already been made by Heaven. He’s really just holding the fun-house mirror up the sinners who’ve arrived at his gates and giving them a chance to learn and change.

Certainly the games are rigged but he’s not necessarily the ultimate bad-guy in this story.

gJg: What’s the plan once “The Devil’s Carnival” tour is over? Will the movie be released on DVD?

TZ: Eventually. We’re trying to determine the best way to release it. Ideally, we want it to be just as unique as the project and tour are. We really want the format we release it in to be an experience as well.

We’ve also written the second episode and do envision having it as an ongoing series. Whether its like a concert tour a few times a year where we unveil a new episode or sort of like a small Lolapalooza or Blue Man group….Well, a RED man group in this case..<laughs>

Briana Evigan (Ms. Merrywood)

gJg: Hey Briana.

BE: Hey, what’s going on?

gJg: I wanted to get the scoop about this movie because it looks so good!

BE: I’m so pumped about it. I love it.

gJg: Tell me a little bit about how the role of Ms. Merrywood came about for you?

BE: Well, Darren had called me up. I had loved working with him in the past so immediately said yes. I didn’t have any insecurities or confidence issues going in which was very cool. It just left an open book for me to play.

And of course, once i saw the wardrobe I pretty much knew what I was going to do. <laughs>

gJg: You get to sing in the movie too!

BE: I do! I started off my career as a musician and a dancer and actually do music on the soundtracks for each film that I’m a part of. What’s cool about this project though is that I actually get to sing in the movie as well as on the soundtrack. It was so much fun to do a bigger than life kind of song and character. It’s definitely different from anything I’ve ever done before.

gJg: What’s your favorite part of the movie?

BE:  With my character it’s got to be the whole singing part. Of course, watching Terrance as the Devil was pretty amazing too!

gJg: How has the whole “experience” of “The Devil’s Carnival” been for you as opposed to a typical movie premiere?

BE: Really cool. It’s busy because you’re meeting people left and right. It’s almost like being on auto pilot. Very surreal. You get the whole carnival kind of vibe too. It’s a lot of fun.

gJg: Putting you on the spot here: If you had to describe “The Devil’s Carnival” experience in three words, what would they be?

BE: Twisted, Exciting and Fun!

For more information on “The Devil’s Carnival” experience and tour click here.

Article first published as Experience The Devil’s Carnival on Technorati.

Thought and Opinion

The Five Senses Of Motorcycle

It’s a beautiful spring day in mid April. The kind where the temperature is unusually perfect. By that I mean not overbearingly cold or windy which is typically the norm for this time of year.

I think I’m going to take my motorcycle for a ride. In fact, a day like this pretty much requires it. Riding a bike on a day like this is spiritual catharsis.

I’m not one of those people who has to ride the bike everywhere I go. To me, motorcycle riding is sacred. I’ll never ride my bike on the highway on long trips. Not just because of the danger factor but also because it’s pointless.

I’ve come to the conclusion that any thing that requires using a “from here to there” means of transportation is what a car is for.

In fact, other than two wheels, there is another huge difference between cars and bikes. Cars are meant for “driving” while bikes are meant for “riding”.

People often ask me what makes riding one so special. It’s easy to explain.

Have you ever driven in a convertible? Do you remember that feeling you had of the top being down? The wind in your hair? Well, imagine that times ten. That’s what it’s like on a bike.

Also, when you ride you immediately become a member of an exclusive club with full benefits. For you see, there’s a special camaraderie among motorcyclists too.

It’s the only means of transportation where, no matter what kind of bike you have, when you pass someone coming in the opposite direction of you also riding a motorcycle expect a head nod or to be waved to. It took me a few times to figure out what that salute was all about.

It’s actually a means of communication between two motorcyclists. A language only we can understand. We’re both members in a special club. Essentially, it’s saying we are one in the same.

Motorcycling to me is all about the experience. It fuels the senses. Every last one of them. Even if it’s a simple trip through the back roads to clear your head. There is nothing in the world that can compare to the feeling of being in control of a motorcycle.

Let me explain what I mean by fueling the senses:

Seeing: When you’re out on the road you have a better visual of the world. From the green pastures to the asphalt. The beautiful sky, the animals of the forest and the old structures you pass near farm lands is simply breathtaking. You can take in as little or as much as you want. There are no limits.

Riding without the constraints of a car surrounding you puts you more in tune with nature.

Hearing: The sound of the bike as you shift gears is exhilarating. Listening to the water fall as you drive past the creek or the birds chirping makes you one with it.

Smelling: I still remember the first time I smelled honeysuckle while riding my bike past a field. It was a smell I hadn’t sensed since I was a child. It’s always there but, like many other things, I was always too busy to immerse myself in it.

Then there’s the smell of fresh bread as you drive past Maiers bakery. Can there be anything better? Only perhaps the smell of someone cooking out on the grill. It gives you the feeling that there’s a picnic somewhere you need to get to.

Touching: One hand on the gas and the other one on the clutch. The feeling of power and control. Sounds corny I know, but it’s true.

There’s also the temperature change element. You really feel the coolness on your skin as you wind your way into “cool spots” along your journey.

Finally, the touch of a beautiful woman holding on to your waist as you drive her through the back roads is a feeling that words just can not express.

In summation, riding a motorcycle is freedom. Do it safely and it’s almost like flying. There’s no need to be in a hurry. You can clear your head, relive your childhood, stop and smell the roses, be with someone special. In a nutshell, it’s the best of everything. So, yeah, I think I’m going to indulge.

Oops, I almost forgot the most important sense when riding a motorcycle.

Easily summed up: When you ride a motorcycle, you taste life.

So, who wants to ride with me?

Childhood Memories

Saturday Night Fever

I guess its kind of fitting that I found out about it on a Saturday afternoon.

I had just sat down at my computer and started perusing the various news sites. I like to read the entertainment tabloids first if for no better reason than to see ridiculous stories about  J-Lo renting a beach or if some other celebrity got popped for drunk driving.

That’s when I read the news.

Robin Gibb is in the hospital suffering from a variety of maladies. Cancer of the colon and liver being one of them. His family making a bedside vigil hoping for recovery. Robin’s twin brother Maurice died unexpectedly back in 2003 and now, the possibility that 2/3 of the Bee Gees might be gone suddenly became a reality.

For a moment I thought about closing my web browser. I guess I believed that somehow  me doing that would magically make it disappear and everything would be as it were just a minute ago.

But I read on. And it was like a punch in the stomach.

Having myself lost my own father to the disease 15 years ago I can personally relate to what their family is going through now. I quickly re-lived everything that I went through during my father’s last days. How all of the wishful thinking, prayers and hopes that somehow, the sickest man in the entire hospital would somehow pull through just wasn’t enough.

Worse still, the news of Robin’s possible final hours only reminded me of my own mortality.

I recalled how carefree I was as an eight-year old boy back in 1977 when Stayin’ Alive was on the radio. How I went to my cousin’s house to listen to all of those cool songs from the soundtrack on his stereo. Or how I used to beg my Mom and Dad to take me to see Saturday Night Fever but was only laughed to scorn because of the “R” rating. It sure was fun being a kid during the height of the disco age.

I can’t even remember the last time I listened to that entire album. I may just have to call my cousin and see if he still has it. He probably won’t but it will be fun to talk about those days again.

And how 35 years later, I’m once again reminded that every beginning has an end.

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

A Conversation With Dee Wallace

Dee Wallace is a survivor.

Over the course of her film career she’s been chased by cannibals, werewolves and rabid dogs, come face to face with a Reese’s Pieces loving alien and even the infamous serial killer Michael Meyers himself. Her life has been, shall we say, a bit hectic?

I, like many other kids that grew up in the 80’s first came to know Dee from her role as Mary, the loving matriarch of Elliott (Henry Thomas), Michael (Robert MacNaughton) and a young Drew Barrymore (as Gertie) in the movie, “E.T. : The Extra Terrestrial“.

“E.T.” is the story about a little alien who wants nothing more than to go home and recruits a bunch of kids to help him get there. It’s a classic film that celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and a movie that at the time of its release in 1982 was literally the biggest thing on the planet (yes, pun intended).

The next time Dee and I would cross paths was when she starred as Helen Brown in the 1986 movie “Critters“. OK, I’m fibbing a bit. Just please don’t tell my Mother that my cousin snuck me in to see the “R” rated “Cujo” and “The Howling“. Two more movies where Dee is absolutely awesome!

Which leads me to pose this question: Who needs Kevin Bacon and his six degrees? Within just ONE degree of Dee Wallace you have people who are absolute masters of their craft. People who’ve sold millions of books and movie tickets and have earned no less than seven Academy Awards. Men like Wes Craven, Blake Edwards, Joe Dante, Stephen King, Rob Zombie, Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson to name just a few. (Oh, and just in case you’re wondering: Dee is two steps away from Kevin Bacon – Look it up!).

Dee has become an icon and fan favorite for her work in the horror genre. From her first role in the low budgeted, but now cult classic original “The Hills Have Eyes” right up to her current roles in films like “Exit Humanity” and “The Lords of Salem“. But her acting prowess is not limited to just one genre. Dee has also appeared on television shows like “The Office”, “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Sons and Daughters“.

But what really may surprise you to learn is that not only is Dee an accomplished actress but she’s also a published author, radio host, public speaker and healer as well.

In fact, when not in front of the camera or interacting with her fans at various conventions, you can usually find Dee conducting monthly workshops to introduce people to the healing techniques that are outlined in her book, “Conscious Creation“. Often called “The Irreverent Healer,” Dee brings fun, energy and love to the healing journey.

Dee’s latest book, “Bright Light: Spiritual Lessons From A Life in Acting“ is an autobiographical tale of her life and craft and how that journey can apply to everyone’s spiritual journey. The message that true success comes from following the heart’s lead and that the mind only creates form for the spirit’s creative manifestation.

Dee is also the mother of Gabrielle Stone, an amazing up and coming actress in her own right, and a daughter she shares with late husband Christopher Stone (who appeared with Dee in many of her roles in the 1980’s).

In this interview with Dee we’ll discuss some of her most memorable film roles, including “E.T. – The Extra Terrestrial“, “Cujo” and the cult classic “The Hills Have Eyes“. We’ll also talk about her upcoming movie projects including Rob Zombie’s “The Lords of Salem” and also her role as an author and healer.

The Hills Have Eyes:

goJimmygo (gJg): Dee, did you ever think that after 35 years people would still be talking about “The Hills Have Eyes“?

Dee Wallace (DW): Oh, hell no!  I thought it was a “This is a low-budget film I’m lucky to get at the beginning of my career” gig!  Just shows you how powerful the fans are!

gJg: How did the role of Lynne Wood come about for you?

DW: I auditioned.  That is, truly, about all I remember!

gJg: Do you have any interesting/funny stories from the set?

DW: I remember we all stayed in the same motor home!  Not fun when the toilet was full! It was also freezing at night (we were in the desert).

I actually spent a lot of time in the car and almost turned the film down because of the tarantula scene. Yuck!

gJg: Really?

DW: Yeah, I’m definitely not a fan. But everyone kept saying things like “Oh, they won’t hurt you!” Then later I came to find out that’s not always true.

If someone told me I’d have to be covered in roaches or snakes or something like that I wouldn’t be in the movie. Give me a fake werewolf or a rabid dog any day. <laughs>

gJg: How did you meet your husband, Christopher Stone? Was it during “The Howling”?

DW: Chris and I met during (shhh…don’t tell anyone) an episode of CHiPs.  We both came in as a favor to the director. Chris took me out that Saturday and the rest, as they say, is history.

gJg:  That scene where you are changing at the very end of “The Howling” is one of my all-time favorite horror scenes!

DW: My Bambi werewolf!  Yes, that scene was added while I was shooting “Cujo”!  I just asked if she could be more vulnerable and that’s what Rob (Bottin) created!  Love it!

 

E.T. : The Extra-Terrestrial

gJg: How did your role in E.T. come about?

DW: Steven had auditioned me for Used Cars!  Fortunately, I didn’t get it and when E.T. came along, he offered me the part.

gJg: Was the premise and title of the movie kept secret from you?

DW: No, not from the actors, but very guarded publicly.  The working title was “A Boy’s Life.”  I did have to read the script behind closed doors at the studio!

gJg: What was your experience like working with Steven Spielberg and did you ever expect the movie to become the phenomenon that it did?

DW: Steven is a master of his craft.  His vision is almost effortless.  I knew we had something special, but as Blake Edwards said to me after “10” – ‘Honey, if we knew what made a hit, we’d have a lot more of them!’

Cujo:

gJg: How demanding was that role for you to play? I read where you were locked up shooting in the Pinto for days shooting.

DW: Well, that’s a bit dramatic.  We actually shot in the car for weeks – it was half of the movie! It was also the most demanding thing – physically & emotionally – that I’ve ever done.

gJg: How many St. Bernards were actually used in the movie?

DW: There were 5 dogs.  All incredibly trained by Karl Miller.  And they did all but about 3 shots in the film.

gJg: Are there certain things that draw you to these types of roles? Howling, Hills, Halloween, Cujo?

DW: I don’t know. I love drama. I love to play an arc.  I’m a good screamer and people want to save me. I guess you would say it’s a natural fit.

Halloween:

gJg: How did you get involved with the remake of Halloween?

DW: Rob Zombie actually offered me the part. It was refreshing to be acknowledged for the talent and body of work with an offer. Just like the old days.

gJg: What was the experience like working with Rob in the remake?

DW: I adore Rob.  Sooo creative. A creative genius, really.  And yet he gives everyone so much room to be their genius creatively.  He’s fun; he’s a visionary, and just a really nice guy.

Upcoming Movies:

gJg: I had spoken to Bill Moseley and he mentioned that you are involved in a new movie with him called “Exit Humanity“. Can you tell me a little about that movie and your role?

DW: In this movie I play a witch who’s trying to help society. And this is not your typical zombie movie. These young filmmakers did an amazing job with this picture! Innovative, beautifully shot with a great script. I consider it a true genre film.  An art film. I would work with them again in a heartbeat!

gJg: “The Lords of Salem” is the next Rob Zombie project. What is your role and what is the status of the film?

DW: The film is being edited as we speak.  I am a perky blonde who is a self-help guru.  He wrote it for me. Be in for some big surprises.  It’s AWEsome.

gJg: Any other current projects you’d like to discuss?

DW: I’ve been doing a lot of TV. Just finished a nice role in a film called Solar Flight. I also have two other films being edited.

gJg: In your career – what film would you say was the hardest to make? Which one was the most fun?

DW: “Cujo” was definitely the hardest, and the film I am proudest of as far as my work goes.  “The Howling” had to be the most fun; I was engaged to Chris and being directed by Joe Dante.  It doesn’t get any more fun that!

Healer and Author:

gJg: You do a lot of public speaking and self-help now. Please tell me a little about how you got involved with that and what you’re doing now!

DW: I am a clairaudient healer. My specialty is being able to discern the blocks within a person’s energy that are prohibiting them from being free, happy, and powerful.  I have two call-in shows weekly and do private sessions with clients worldwide.  It all happened after the death of my husband, Chris Stone.  I asked for a way to heal ourselves.

gJg: Can you tell me a little bit about your latest book: Bright Light: Spiritual Lessons From A Life in Acting?

DW: It’s a semi-autobiography of my life in movies. What I went through. Who I worked with. What I’ve learned.

If you take every challenge everyone has in their life and multiply it in severity you get what it’s like in the life of an actor.

In a regular life you might have nine or ten big changes in a lifetime (like changes in a work environment for example). Where as in an actor’s life there might be nine or ten of those in a day.

 

I’ve learned a lot of lessons over the course of my career and this book is about following the process in a dramatic, consistent way.

The best quote I’ve heard from the people who’ve read it is this one:

“I bought the book to read about your life… and I wound  up reading about my own”.

Article first published as A Conversation With Dee Wallace on Technorati.