Category: A Conversation With

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

Darren Lynn Bousman Discusses His New Film, The Barrens

What do you get when you take a man already losing his mind, place him deep into the forest and then add the Jersey Devil on top for good measure? You get The Barrens; an emotional thrill ride that’s more than just a take on a legendary cryptid.

Written and directed by Darren Lynn Bousman (whose previous works include Mother’s Day, The Devil’s Carnival and SAW II, III and IV), The Barrens stars Stephen Moyer (True Blood) as Richard Vineyard, a suburban husband and father trying to rekindle the relationship with his family by taking them on a camping trip deep into the Pine Barrens of New Jersey.

Along the way, the family discovers the legend of the Jersey Devil, but Richard reassures them that it’s all just pretend (SURE it is) and nothing to worry about. But, there are secrets that Richard has been keeping from them. One of which eventually causes him to spiral out of control and descend into madness as he becomes convinced the family is being stalked by the legendary monster.

The Barrens also stars Mia Kirshner (The Vampire Diaries), Allie MacDonald (House at the End of the Street) and Shawn Ashmore (X-Men: The Last Stand).

I found this film intriguing on many different levels. First, Stephen Moyer’s performance is outstanding. I haven’t seen someone lose their mind this good since Jack Nicholson went bonkers in The Shining. I also enjoyed how the movie deviated from what I initially expected. Just when you think you have it figured out; the story takes you off in an entirely different direction.

Viewers wanting to see a glimpse of the legendary creature certainly won’t be disappointed with this movie. But in the end, the real reason The Barrens succeeds is not because of the monster. It’s the story of a man’s descent into madness that draws you in and keeps you guessing until the very end.

In a world hungering for great dramatic thrillers, it’s unfortunate that films like The Barrens (along with Bousman’s previous film, an amazing re-make of “Mother’s Day” starring Rebecca De Mornay) never saw a wide theatrical release. Both of these films are solid, well-crafted productions with stars who give nothing less than stellar performances. Ones that I highly recommend you see.

I had the opportunity to speak with writer/director Darren Lynn Bousman and discuss The Barrens and much more in this exclusive interview.

goJimmygo (gJg): Before we begin, I have to tell you how much I loved Mother’s Day.

Darren Lynn Bousman (DLB): Thank you very much!

gJg: Whenever I see people Tweeting you that they’ve “finally” seen it, it frustrates me because of how long it took for it to finally be released.

DLB: The whole thing frustrates me as well. Mother’s Day is such a cool, unique film. The problem was, no one gave it a shot. They said it was too “artsy”, not “commercial” enough or not “scary” enough. The good news now is that people are finally getting to see it to some extent, so it’s cool.

gJg: Rebecca De Mornay was fantastic in that movie.

DLB: She certainly was.

Stephen Moyer in The Barrens

And Stephen Moyer is equally as good in The Barrens.

DLB: Stephen Moyer just killed it in this film. I’m a big fan of his from True Blood.

gJg: The thing I liked most about The Barrens is that it’s not a horror movie, it’s more of a thriller.

DLB: That was my whole goal going in. I wanted to do something that was a little bit more dramatic in nature but still had elements of those monster movies that I love. Those are my favorite types of movies.

Some people might say that it’s a “monster movie”, but it’s really not. It’s the story about a man and his descent into madness that just happens to have a monster in it.

 

gJg: What made you decide to write a story based upon the Jersey Devil?

DLB: I’ve always loved Cryptozoology creatures and the Jersey Devil was the one that I felt had not been exploited, where so many of the others have. We’ve all seen Big Foot and The Loch Ness Monster everywhere. The Jersey Devil was one that I’ve never seen done correctly.

gJg: How would you describe the story of The Barrens?

DLB: It’s a story about a father looking to rekindle his relationship with his family. He takes them on a camping trip into the woods and then begins to spiral out of control into insanity… oh, and there happens to be a monster! [laughs]. The best way to describe it:  it’s “The Shining in the woods meets JAWS!”

gJg: What are some of the elements that make up a great horror/thriller film like this one?

DLB: More important than anything else, it’s great performances. Without those, you’ve got nothing. It’s why Mother’s Day is so great (Rebecca’s performance) and why this one is so great (Stephen’s performance). These movies, if done by any other actors would not have had the same impact. In the end, it all comes down to acting.

Misdirects is another big one. That’s where the audience thinks they have it figured out going in, but then you do something that they didn’t expect. I think a lot of people thought that the story was going to be based on the trailer, but then were surprised with something else.

gJg: My particular favorite scene was where the son, Danny (Peter DaCunha) runs up and gets scared.

DLB: That scene makes me so happy, because that’s a genuine reaction. We didn’t show him the dog beforehand. So when we filmed and he was coming up, he really thought he was coming up to see a dog. [laughs]

gJg: Do you have a favorite scene?

DLB: I’d have to say the scene with Danny near the water. It’s a disturbing thing, but you really feel for the family at that moment. And again, it’s not reliant upon the creature or anything like that. It’s just an emotional connection.

gJg: What projects are you working on right now?

DLB: We’ll start filming the second installment of The Devils Carnival in early 2013. Everything about it will be the same, including another nationwide tour. It’s my soul cleansing for the films that didn’t get released theatrically. It’s something that I get to control.

I’m also working on ABATTOIR which is based on a comic book that I wrote. I was one of the writers who created the concept for it and we’re now turning it into a feature. I recommend people check out the comic book.

The Barrens will be released October 9th as a Two Disc Blu-Ray/DVD Combo Pack. Extras include audio commentary as well as a deleted scene.

Article first published as Darren Lynn Bousman Discusses His New Film, The Barrens on Technorati.

A Conversation With, Interview, Music

The Pride of Mike Tramp
White Lion – Pride (1987)

Article Originally Published on Guitar World

Twenty-five years ago, the band White Lion released their breakthrough album, Pride. A record that would feature two top ten hits, peak at #11 on the Billboard charts and sell more than two million copies in the US alone. Pride would become one of the best pop-metal albums of the 1980’s with Vito Bratta’s signature melodic guitar work and the heartfelt lyrics and vocals of Mike Tramp.

From his days in White Lion and Freak of Nature right up to his most recent project, “Stand Your Ground” with Mike Tramp and The Rock ‘n’ Roll Circuz, the man who was the voice of a generation with hits like “Wait”, “Tell Me” and “When The Children Cry” continues to make great music.

But one thing you may not know about Mike Tramp is that his musical roots lie heavily in folk. And this fall, Mike; accompanied only by his guitar, will celebrate those roots by embarking on a vagabond tour of Europe. Mike will be crossing the land performing hits from his catalog and along the way, telling stories that get to the core of his songwriting.

With an arsenal of hits at his disposal and a passion for words, here’s hoping the journeyman brings his tour to the US in 2013.

I was fortunate to catch up with Mike from his home in Denmark and get his thoughts on the milestone anniversary on the Pride album as well as his European tour, a glimpse into his next album and why he thinks the music industry should be run more like a hardware store.

When someone mentions the Pride album, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind?

To me, Pride represents the coming together of White Lion. It’s the band at its core and the purity of the band. It’s the only album where we are the “true” White Lion.

The Pride album everyone is familiar with wasn’t the original version though.

Yes. Back in 1986, shortly after the Fight To Survive album, we recorded a version of Pride over in Germany. But after coming back to America and giving it a listen, we  weren’t satisfied.  So, Vito and I started re-writing, and then went to LA to record it again.

Wait

There’s almost no origin to that song. The story goes: Vito started playing the riff and the very first word out of my mouth was “Wait”.  It’s one of the simplest lyrics I’ve ever written, but it’s also the perfect American, FM song. It’s right up there with Journey, Foreigner and all those other classic songs. “Wait” was just one of those songs that worked really well in the studio and for the video.

When The Children Cry

Even though the words are simple, it has a very powerful lyric. Imagine being a kid from Copenhagen, Denmark sitting there in Staten Island and writing “No more presidents, and all the wars will end…” at the time when Ronald Reagan is the President. But, it was how I felt at the time. That song began by just sitting around and playing. Then Vito changed it to the finger picking style. Even the way I play it now is different; it sounds new to me.

Tell Me

Another classic, radio friendly song. Those three songs together are what made Pride such a strong package and it just proves that the album is timeless. Those songs will live on forever.

Your most recent album with The Rock ‘n’ Roll Circuz, “Stand Your Ground” (2011) is another great record.

My sound is still very much “Americanized”, but there’s no mystery to it; it’s just rock and roll!

The chorus to the song “Straight From The Look in Your Eyes” is one of those ones that give you chills when you listen to it.

I think years ago, that song would have been a massive hit in the States. But now, the music business is more of a bureaucracy. It’s like trying to get an application through fifty offices. The reality is, the music business should be a little bit more like a Home Depot. When you come through the door there’s “plumbing” to the right and “gardening” to the far left and you separate those things. You can have different departments with different things in them. The problem is, when you start having one thing that comes in that completely replaces something else, that’s when everything goes wrong.

Tell me a little about your upcoming record.

The new album was one of those things that I actually hadn’t planned. I had just gone into the studio with the guitar engineer from “Stand Your Ground” and we would up recording an entire album. The songs are very much departed from what most people know me from. But to me, these are my roots. In White Lion, some of the songs came from Vito’s world and others came from mine. I come from the (Bob) Dylan world. I grew up heavily influenced by folk music and that way of playing guitar.

I use high gauge strings because I like to play big chords. I’ve never evolved out from that. I live in the first three frets. My songs all start from there. That’s where I lay the foundation and the main guitar will then come in later and fill it out.

Do you have a release date for the new record?

Not yet. When the time is right, I will announce it.

You’re also about to embark on a new tour.

Yes. I’m going out and touring Europe completely solo. Just me and my acoustic guitar playing more White Lion and more Freak of Nature songs than I’ve ever done before. It’s brought back to my world. But it’s not going to be a guitar exhibition; it’s a singer-songwriter show where I’ll be playing these songs a little differently and talking more about the essence of the core song. I like people to get deeper into the music.

Are you nervous at all about going out alone?

Not at all. I love the fact that I can do anything I want. It’s just going to be me and a few acoustic guitars and it’s actually where I feel the most at home. The further down on the ground I can get, the better.

Keep up with Mike Tramp by visiting his Official Website and Facebook

A Conversation With, Books, Interview, Movies and TV

Diane Franklin’s Excellent Adventure

Diane Franklin’s new book, “Diane Franklin:The Excellent Adventures of the Last American, French-Exchange Babe of the 80s” is a look back at a career of one of the most amazing actresses to come out of the MTV generation.

It’s hard to believe that it’s been thirty years since Diane’s first feature film role in “The Last American Virgin”. The raunchy sex comedy about three friends who were trying to…. well, you know what they’re trying to do.

But, aside from their testosterone fueled quest and Diane’s innocence, for me no single movie exemplifies a slice of the 1980′s better than LAV. When you see the fashions and hear the soundtrack laden with songs by U2, Journey, The Cars and REO Speedwagon; timeless classics now but back then, songs that were fresh and new, it just takes you back. Back to a time of complete innocence.

The thing about Last American Virgin is that it’s not just a movie, it’s a slice of time. And whether it was her beautiful smile or curly locks, I still found a way to forgive Diane for the horrible choice she made at the end of the movie.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Diane about her amazing book and career. The enthusiasm she has for her written word is matched only by the talent she has as an actress.

goJimmygo (gJg): To this day whenever I watch The Last American Virgin, it’s almost like being in a time machine.

Diane Franklin (DF): I agree. LAV brings that 80’s generation back to their teen years. At the beginning of the 80’s, movies that were made had such a rawness to them. The films were real gritty and even the subject matter was grittier. Then in the mid  80’s, movies started to become more polished and upbeat. I’m so happy that I was chosen for that role.  Even though it’s a sex comedy, there’s something that rings true about it, and it doesn’t leave you.

gJg: LAV was also your first feature film as well.

DF: Yes it was. I had actually been auditioning for years prior to getting the role. I was doing good readings but things just weren’t happening. They’d always hire a lead who was someone with a “name’ or some notoriety. And I wasn’t getting the smaller parts because I couldn’t play the best friend; I was told I was too “noticeable”. For my first role to be a lead was just meant to be, and it was a big break for me in my career.

gJg: What made you decide to write a book about your career?

DF: My daughter used to have a crush on Jemaine Clement, a musician and actor. One day, we actually had the chance to meet him and she was in heaven about it. I said to myself, “Look at the happiness that this man brings, and he has absolutely no idea.” I’ve always been recognized a lot and decided it would be great to write a book as a way to give something back to people.

I came to the point of view where I had an “excellent adventure” and was an 80’s “babe”. I found words that were indicative of the 80’s but, I also wanted to talk about everything I’ve done in my career; both the good and the bad. This book exemplifies both my life and journey as an actress. What’s also unique about it, aside from the stories about my journey, is that it also lets you look back and see what the 80’s were really like. There are really are no other books like it. If you know me, you’re definitely going to be into my book. If you don’t know me, but you love the 80’s you’ll love my book anyway!

gJg: What was the writing process like for you?

DF: It felt natural to write and everything just fell right into place. I wanted to make sure I wrote it from my point of view and not someone else putting my thoughts in their own words. This is me. When you read it, it feels like you’ve been sitting with me in Starbucks having a conversation [laughs].

gJg: Where can people get a copy of your book?

DF: Right now, you can get it on Amazon and there’s also a Kindle version of it available as well. Eventually, I’m going to try for a wider distribution.

Do you have any appearances coming up?

I’ll be at New York Comic Con in October. It’s sort of a bizarre schedule but, I’ll be at the Javits Center in NYC Oct 12th from 4:15 – 5:15pm and Oct 13th from 10:45 – 11:45am. In addition to signings for my book, I’ll also have photos from my films available and be taking pictures as well. It will be a great time and a lot of fun.

gJg: Have you stayed in touch with any of your cast mates?

DF: I have. In fact, I recently hosted a radio podcast for CRAGG called, “Babes of the 80’s”. I brought in people I had worked with and we talked about the movies we did together.  I had Amanda Wyss and E G Daily from “Better of Dead”;  Kimmy Robertson and Winnie Freedman from “Last American Virgin” and Kimberley LaBelle Kates from “Bill and Ted”. It went really well.

This time around, I’m planning to do a Halloween Special with Horror Babes and bring in some friends I know who’ve acted in other shows. There are so many beautiful 80’s actresses and it’s so much fun to get together and reminisce.

What else do you have coming up?

DF: I’ve just finished doing commentary with Tony Ginnane for the Blu Ray release of “Second Time Lucky”. The other thing I’ve been involved with is acting in my daughter’s films.

She’s an amazing writer and director and actually won her first award when she was twelve. I play the voice of the computer in a film she did called “Humanized“. It was recently in the Future Filmmaker category for the Los Angeles Film Festival. She’s also completed another film called “My Better Half “.

I’ve heard rumors of a Last American Virgin remake. What do you know about this?

DF: Good question. Brett Ratner actually talked about me on The Howard Stern Show not too long ago and discussed his desire to do a remake. I understand why they would want to do it for another audience and also probably because of the way the original film ended. That’s the reason we all remember it so well.

It would be interesting to see what became of Karen.

DF: I think people might go crazy if I was in it. [laughs]. It would be interesting to tie it together and bring some kind of closure to the original movie. It would also be cool for people who grew up with the film to watch it and get that nostalgic feeling again. We’ll see.

1980’s This Or That With Diane Franklin….

Nightmare on Elm Street or Friday The 13th?

DF: Nightmare on Elm Street, because I was in and episode of Freddy’s Nightmares: The Bride Wore Red.

The Go Gos or The Bangles?

DF: That’s a tough one. I’d have to say Go-Gos, but I do like The Bangles too.

Diane Franklin

Love Boat or Fantasy Island?

DF: When you say it, the imagery just pops into my head [laughs]. Hmmm, The Love boat had some funny skits. I’ll go with that.

Fast Times at Ridgemont High or Porky’s?

DF: Even though I worked with Roger Wilson in “Second Time Lucky”,  I’d still have to say Fast Times.

A Rubik’s Cube or a Pet Rock?

DF: Pet Rock  [laughs]

Finally, REO Speedwagon or Journey?

Journey – Although every time I hear that song I think, “Uh oh, I wonder if people are thinking of that scene I was in?” [laughs].

Article first published as Diane Franklin’s Excellent Adventure on Technorati.

A Conversation With, Movies and TV

Below Zero: A Chilling Thrill Ride
Below Zero

In Below Zero, the new film written by Signe Olynyk, screenwriter Jack “The Hack” is suffering from a severe case of writers block. In a desperate effort to clear his head and reach his agent’s deadline, he decides to lock himself in an abandoned slaughterhouse freezer for five days with no means of escape. While there, the line between fiction and reality blurs until he’s unsure of what is real and what is horror.

While watching the film, I found myself enthralled with a storyline that led in many different, intriguing directions. The result of which allows one to watch the film freshly with subsequent viewings; finding something new and exciting about it every time. In a way, it’s almost like a choose your own adventure book.

The exquisite cinematography and cast that includes horror legend Michael Berryman, Edward Furlong and Kristin Booth only adds to fun! Whether it’s Berryman’s amazing performance as a slaughterhouse butcher, the angst of Furlong trying to reach his deadline or Booth channeling her inner scream queen; Below Zero is a thrill ride like no other.

I had the chance to speak with writer Signe Olynyk and actor Michael Berryman, who discuss their experiences working on Below Zero.

Signe Olynyk

goJimmygo (gJg): What’s the origin of Below Zero?

Signe Olynyk (SO): I like to consider it an autobiographical horror/thriller.

Originally, I set out to write a film with a concept of a guy being locked in a freezer. The problem was, that was as far as I could go; I didn’t know what to do next.

So, I started doing searches on the Internet on slaughterhouses and found one that was for sale. I’m a firm believer in doing research and tapping into details that you don’t normally know about, so I paid them a visit and asked the lady if she would lock me in the freezer for five days.  It really was one of the best things I could have done.

gJg: How would you describe the story of Below Zero?

OS: It’s a smart, twisted horror film; actually a story within a story, about a blocked writer who struggles with a deadline. He arranges to have himself locked in a freezer and while there, the story he’s writing actually begins to unfold. Fiction and reality blur and he can’t distinguish between what’s real and what is not.

What was it like working with a legend like Michael Berryman?

SO: We were so lucky to have Michael. I really have to credit to my partner, Bob Schultz. He’s a real horror fan and mentioned Michael for this role. I think this is one of the best performances of his career. He really gets to flex his acting muscles and play a character with arc. Having Michael on board also allowed us to appeal to the horror fan base.

You also had two other great actors in Edward Furlong and Kristin Booth!

SO: Eddie was great. His character was one that he really identified with and I think that appealed to him. We really got lucky with Kristin. She is such a talented actress and her star is always rising. In fact, the day we finished filming she was cast in The Kennedy’s mini-series on HBO.

So we’ve got the horror fans with Michael, Eddie taps into the mainstream and Kristin is the rising star. We wanted to get the best cast we could to help us reach the widest audience. I think we succeeded.

Did you also happen to notice that the “creepy” kid in the film was actually a little girl? Sadi Madu did a great job too. She’s the daughter of the owners of the slaughter-house we filmed at. She came to the auditions disguised as a boy and just blew us all away.

How has the reception been for the film?

The fans enjoy it and have really responded well to it. They appreciate what we were trying to accomplish by bringing something new to the genre. We’re winning awards and have been all over the world with the film. It’s a fun, exciting time.

Michael Berryman

gJg: One of the things I loved most about this movie was your character (Gunnar).  It was interesting to figure out what his motive was.

MB: It’s not fully revealed until the very end which I thought was fun. It’s very Alfred Hitchcock-ish.

Overall, I’m very pleased with the film. It was well written and I liked the musical score as well; particularly as it was used in certain scenes. Any time you have elements of beauty mixed in with counterpoint, it plays very well.

gJg: What was your experience like working on the film?

MB: It was great.  We shot the entire film in only a few weeks and Eddie and Kristin both gave excellent performances. Signe and Bob were both professional and very easy-going. They’re also involved in a conference called The Great American Pitchfest. It supports writers with a lot of seminars. They are big supporters of the ‘written word’ so to speak.

The whole town of Edson (Alberta) was really happy we were there too. It was a treat. It’s a very beautiful area up there.

gJg: You recently did a signing in Burbank. What are the fans saying about Below Zero?

MB: We’re finding that people who have seen the movie really appreciate it. In fact, they like to watch it a second and third time because they get more out of it. Then they appreciate it even more. Visually, it’s beautiful and the music score is interesting and fresh. It’s not dependent on gore and splatter as much as it is on the mysterious things going on.

Below Zero is available now at Amazon and streaming on NetFlix

Article first published as Below Zero: A Chilling Thrill Ride on Technorati.

A Conversation With, Books, Interview

Inspirational People: Luann Robinson Hull

Luann Robinson Hull’s book “Happily Ever After… Right Now” breaks down the barriers of relationship challenges. By combining spiritual practices and real word exercises, it’s a must-read for anyone stuck in patterns and habits that prevent them from achieving true happiness. It’s more than a self-help book. It’ a model for happiness, and a formula for living in the now!

I had the pleasure of discussing “Happily Ever After…Right Now” with Luann. The inspiration you get from speaking with her is as powerful as her written word. She is an incredibly positive woman who is really making a difference in the lives of people.

goJimmygo (gJg): Tell me a little about your background and what led you to research happiness and write the book.

Luann Robinson Hull (LRH): I had been working in the psychiatric field for several years and saw a lot of pathology and illness and found that it was very difficult to negotiate the positivity. For me, the question became: “How can we work to get people to happiness rather than just getting them to neutral?”

I had also seen a lot of depressed women who were disappointed in their relationships, and I was no exception. I had gone through a very difficult divorce in the 1980s. I thought I had married Prince Charming, but it didn’t work out quite the way I had hoped.

I eventually went from the hospital setting to my own private practice. My goal was to provide health care givers and insurers with a different model and way of doing things. What I found was that it was challenging to create that kind of education.

One night I had a dream and in it, I was just free of everything that was need based. I was in a state of spaciousness and complete freedom. It’s hard to describe but I believe its similar to the state when yogis reach nirvana or in a place of reverence in the moment.

I got the hint that maybe this whole nightmare that we create with expectations and challenges can be juxtaposed if we just think of things a little bit differently. That dream launched my desire. I decided to get up out of my chair and do research on my own and have been doing that for the last ten years. Researching happiness; a very popular, but evasive topic.

gJg: What did you find in your research?

LRH: I discovered that the problem is, we’re still living in a ‘need based’ paradigm where we look outside of ourselves for answers. We want the relationships to bring us the happiness we can’t find in our own hearts.

gJg: What was the writing process like for you?

Luann Robinson Hull

LRH: It took nearly ten years to finish and there were a number of challenges along the way. The one thing I would say about my journey is that if you have an inkling and a passion for something, just hold onto that – even a bit. You will be supported, you just have to set your own fears aside.

gJg: One of the things I loved most about your book is the positive message and the need to maintain course. Even the quotes and poetry you use are positive. Everything about this book is inspirational.

LRH: The more I research, the more I find how powerful our conditioning is. We have global, genetic and other conditioning types (that influence our behavior) but the main thing is to stay aware of what is going on– of what you are thinking. Doing so will be instrumental in how things unfold for you, because you will be catching yourself in recognizing the kind of thinking that serves your growth and highest potential.

gJg: You also include real world exercises to help reinforce your points.

LRH: Our western world minds want to be busy. The exercises included in the book not only give the mind something positive to do, but they also help with the training of the mind in a positive direction.

gJg: If there is one message you’d like readers to take from reading your book, what would it be?

LRH: The one thing I want readers to take is this: To whatever extent you are capable, in any moment of now, bring yourself back to your own passion. Ask yourself, “What is it that you came into this world to offer?”. Each of us is unique and has something extraordinary to share. Our journey here is to make those discoveries. Focus on what that is for you. And when you do, all the people, places, circumstances, and events that can support you, including relationships, will show up.

 For more information on Luann Robinson Hull, be sure to check out the following links:

What a Gem (Luann’s Blog)  *  Facebook   *  Twitter  *  YouTube

Article first published as Inspirational People: Luann Robinson Hull on Technorati

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

Actress Kristin Booth Discusses “Below Zero”
Actress Kristin Booth

Actress Kristin Booth is seeing double. The multi-talented and Gemini award-winning actress has dual roles in the horror/thriller “Below Zero”; a film in which she stars alongside Edward Furlong (Terminator 2) and horror legend, Michael Berryman (The Hills Have Eyes).

Written by Signe Olynyk, Below Zero tells the story of ‘Jack The Hack’, a once successful screenwriter who now suffers from a severe case of writers block. In a rather extreme attempt to cure him of his “ailment”, his agent forces him to spend five days in a meat locker to help clear his head. When the temperature drops, the lines between fiction and reality blur as both he and a young mother (Booth) are stalked by a cleaver-wielding psychopath…..or are they?

With exquisite cinematography and multiple story lines that keep you guessing until the very end, Below Zero is a thrill ride from start to finish.

I had the opportunity to speak with Kristin about her Below Zero experience and much more in this exclusive interview!

goJimmygo (gJg): What attracted you most to your role in Below Zero?

Kristin Booth (KB): The idea of playing two characters and the challenge of doing that really interested me and made me want to be a part of the project.

gJg: Are you a big fan of the horror genre?

KB: I am a huge fan! I had never actually been in one before but my best friend and I have rented pretty much every horror movie there is. We just love watching them and getting the crap scared out of us.

gJg: Well, then I have to ask you: What’s your favorite horror movie of all time?

KB: That’s a good question. We both had gone to see Texas Chainsaw Massacre when it was in the theater.  I remember, we ran screaming from the car to the house; that’s how scared we were! It scared the bejeezus out of us.  I’d have to say that film because of the sheer thrill we got out of it.

gJg: You were able to work with one of the real horror legends in Below Zero: Michael Berryman!

KB: Michael really is a horror legend and for me to have the opportunity to work with him was surreal and very exciting. I had seen him in “The Hills Have Eyes”, another movie that scared me; to the point where I had to close my eyes halfway through. <laughs>.

The funny thing about Michael is that you see him in all of these scary movies but in reality, he is the nicest man you’ll ever meet. He loves animals and has lots of great stories.  He used to work security for Bob Dylan. He’s one of those people who’ve seen and done a lot. Being around him was great.

gJg: What was it like working with Eddie Furlong?

KB:  Eddie and I were both actually in the movie “Detroit Rock City”. Even though we didn’t have any scenes together, that was a topic of conversation when we met for the first time. It’s funny how we were both in the same movie but had never met. Sometimes that’s just the nature of the business. I remember we both had different ways of approaching things for this movie, but it was great because the characters we played mirrored that so it worked out well.

Below Zero

gJg: Describe the story of Below Zero.

KB:  It’s a look into the mind of a delusional writer. It’s also a little bit like a “Choose Your Own Adventure” book because there are many different ways of looking at it. That’s what makes it so interesting!

gJg: What was your favorite scene?

KB: The cinder block scene was my favorite. I actually couldn’t wait to shoot it, although I’m sure the stunt man was a little nervous about it. <laughs>

gJg: What did you enjoy most about your experience making this movie?

KB: Meeting and working with Signe and Bob (Schultz, Producer). It was a small indie film but they were  both so passionate about it. I like to see people that passionate about their art make their dreams come true.

It was a pleasure to work with them and I hope to get a chance to work with them again in the future.

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

KB: I studied to be a yoga teacher years back so I still dabble in yoga. I’ve also just had my first baby, so I’m knee-deep in mommy duty!

gJg: What projects do you have coming up?

KB: I just finished another indie movie called “Sex After Kids“.  It’s about a group of people who are all in the same boat of either having or trying to have kids and what happens to your sex life after these kids are introduced into the world. It deals with marriage and relationships and the challenges of keeping those relationships fresh.  It’s quite funny, and is actually five-story lines of different couples who interact and share their stories, or nightmares as the case may be. <laughs>.

Article first published as Actress Kristin Booth Discusses Below Zero on Technorati.

Kristin Booth Photo: Jonetsu Photography

A Conversation With, Interview

The Pride of Mike Tramp
Mike Tramp

Twenty-five years ago, White Lion released their breakthrough album, Pride.

The album, which featured two Top 10 hits, peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard charts and sold more than two million copies in the U.S. alone. Pride became one of the most-heralded pop-metal albums of the 1980s with Vito Bratta’s signature melodic guitar work and the heartfelt lyrics and vocals of Mike Tramp.

From his days in White Lion and Freak of Nature right up to his most recent project, 2011’s Stand Your Ground with Mike Tramp and The Rock ‘n’ Roll Circuz, the man who was the voice of a generation with hits like “Wait,” “Tell Me” and “When The Children Cry” continues to make great music.

You can read the rest of the article and my Guitar World interview with Mike by clicking  here

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

A Slice of Lauren Nash
Lauren Nash  (Photo: Nicholas Paulos)

Lauren Nash is forging her own path. The multi-talented actress, model and dancer is making a name for herself on-screen and off.

Not only does she have several film and television roles on deck (including an appearance on the new JJ Abrams show, “Revolution”, but Lauren is also busy writing and directing her own short films as well.

This fall, Lauren (herself a huge horror movie fan) will appear in CUT!, the David Banks/David Rountree film about a pair of filmmakers who decide that the best way to make a horror movie is to actually kill people for real.

I had the opportunity to speak with Lauren and get her thoughts on CUT! as well as some of her other upcoming projects!

gJg: Have you seen the trailer for CUT!?

LN: YES!!…. I LOVE it! <laughs>

gJg: Tell me a about how you got the role of Red.

Lauren Nash (LN): It was an early morning audition when I went in, but everything went great. A few days later they called me and told me they wanted to close the role after my audition because they thought I was perfect for it!”

What was the experience like filming your scenes?

The scenes were frighteningly real! <laughs>. We were all in a hotel that really fit the mood. Then of course, you’ve got the props and blood. It was one of the easiest transitions for me to get into character. And both Davids were so nice. The entire process was a great experience. We were able to film everything in one day.

gJg: Are you a horror fan?

LN: Yes, I’m a huge horror movie buff!! My all-time favorite is, “The Exorcist (Directors Cut)”. The only thing is, when I watch it I usually can’t make it past the scene in Iraq where the dogs start barking, only because I know what’s coming!! <laughs>

gJg: How did you get into it acting?

LN: I went to college in Florida and majored in literature and theater. I was living in a tiny little beach town and while I was there, I started getting into commercial work. From there, I began doing some HSN modeling and, after I had honed my skills more, started going on more and more auditions in the southeast. I got my credits together, moved to Los Angeles and here I am!

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

LN: I love to dance. Since moving to LA, I’ve also gotten into hiking. I’m also an avid reader.

gJg: What other projects do you have coming up?

LN: I’m going to be appearing on the JJ Abrams show Revolution, which begins airing on NBC September 17th. My role has a potential to recur, so I’m very excited about that. I also have two films that I’ve completed earlier this year that are about to do the festival scene: “Heterosexual Jill” and “The Republic of Two”.

gJg: Tell me a little bit about those films.

LN: In “Heterosexual Jill” – I play a raunchy red-head named, Ruby. That was a lot of fun to shoot.

“The Republic of Two” is a project that’s near and dear to my heart. It’s my boyfriend’s movie and a lot of the film actually takes place in my home. I got to wear a lot more hats than just actor.

I’ve also written, directed and acted in a short film called “Plan B”. I was fortunate to be able to get the production crew from the show Workaholics to help me with it!  It’s the story about how far women will go to be able to afford acting. The truth is, it’s incredibly expensive to live out here, and being an actor is not something you can just do on the weekends. It’s something that you have to work on every day.

gJg: Between acting, writing, making props, editing; you really do it all!

LN: If I’m going to do this, then I’m not going to limit my opportunities! If I have the chance to learn all of these things, it gives me that much more appreciation for the people who actually do these jobs all the time. When you see all of the effort they go through each and every day by doing it with your own hands, you really respect it!

gJg: Where do you see yourself a few years from now?

LN: Continuing to do what I’m doing and being part of memorable projects!

Article first published as A Slice of Lauren Nash on Technorati.

A Conversation With, Books, Interview, Movies and TV

A Conversation With Actress Ami Dolenz
Ami Dolenz – Actress, Artist, Author

“Very classy”.  It’s one of the few lines she speaks in the movie “Can’t Buy Me Love”, but those two words are what best describes actress Ami Dolenz.

The 1987 coming of age movie that showcased nerdy Ronald Miller (Patrick Dempsey) buying the affections of Cindy Mancini (Amanda Peterson) also contained a number of firsts for the daughter of famous “Monkee” Micky Dolenz. Not only was it Ami’s first feature film role, but it was also where she met co-star Darcy DeMoss (Patty) for the first time as well. The two instantly connected and have been best friends ever since.

Following the breakout success of “Can’t Buy Me Love”, Ami would go on to appear as Melissa McKee on the daytime soap “General Hospital” and star in such films as “She’s Out of Control”, “Miracle Beach”‘,  “Witchboard 2: The Devil’s Doorway” and  Pumpinkhead II: Blood Wings” to name just a few.

What you may not know about Ami is that, in addition to being an amazing actress, she also has a passion for art and writing. She is currently working on a children’s book,“Harold and Agatha and the Mysterious Jewel”, in which she will both write and illustrate.

I had the opportunity to speak with the beautiful and multi-talented artist from her home in Vancouver and discuss “Can’t Buy Me Love” and the bond she shares with Darcy DeMoss. Ami also talks about her passion for art and storytelling as well as her own “metal” connection.

If there’s one thing I learned about from our conversation, it’s this: When it comes to cool, Ami Dolenz is in a class by herself.

goJimmygo (gJg): I wanted to talk to you about the 25 year anniversary of “Can’t Buy Me Love”.

Ami Dolenz (AD): It’s so weird and hard to believe that its been that long.

Ami Dolenz & Darcy DeMoss “Can’t Buy Me Love”

gJg: I spoke with Darcy DeMoss (Patty) a few months ago and she said the exact same thing.

AD: You interviewed one of my BEST friends.  Darcy and I have known each other for such a long time. It was one of those things where we just instantly connected; we keep in touch a lot.  I love what she’s doing with the animals.  I’ve been to Shambala quite a few times. That whole movement is so amazing; it means a lot to me.

gJg: How did you become involved with “Can’t Buy Me Love?”

AD: I was just starting out as an actress at the time, and initially auditioned for the role of Cindy but ended up getting the role of Fran; which was great. It was a wonderful opportunity for me to get my chops going; memorize lines and hit my mark. Amanda (Peterson) did such a great job as Cindy. I met so many amazing people while working on that movie.

It was so much fun just to be there with everyone and be a part of that experience. It’s a point in my life that I don’t ever want to forget.

gJg: What do you remember most about your experience making the movie?

AD: When we made the movie, it was around the time of my 18th birthday and it was the first time I was on a location without my Mom along. It was also where I met Darcy for the first time. She bought me a cake to celebrate my birthday.  We’ve been best friends ever since!

Ami Dolenz & Darcy DeMoss – Best Friends For Life!

gJg: Do you have any favorite scenes?

AD: I really love Darcy’s scene where she’s in the car with Patrick. Of course, I’m also pretty fond of the party scene too (because, I’m in it).  <laughs> 

gJg: You went on to appear in “General Hospital” and then the movie “She’s Out of Control” with Tony Danza. What was it like working with Tony?

AD: Tony was a fabulous person to work with. He’s also a great tap dancer and showed me some of his moves. It was funny because our paths seemed to keep crossing. I first met him when I was on “Star Search”; we were both in a comedy sketch together. Then a few years later, I met him again for “She’s Out Of Control” .<laughs>

gJg: What attracted you to the horror genre for films like “Pumpkinhead” and “Witchboard”?

AD: Believe it or not, I’m actually a scary movie fanatic. I love horror. In fact, the original “Alien” is my all-time favorite comfort movie. I can watch it over and over.

gJg: Your father is hugely into music. Did he encourage you to try to get you into music while you were growing up?

AD: He did in a way, when I was younger. I used to play his drums. I also have a tape of me as a child signing “Blue Suede Shoes” with him. But acting was something I really wanted to do.

 

Ami Dolenz, Micky Dolenz & Darcy DeMoss

gJg: What was it like growing up with The Monkees?

AD: I remember we had a beautiful house in the Hollywood Hills that people would always come and visit. One of my best friends growing up was actually Alice Cooper. I even remember one of my first days in school; my teacher asked me who my best friend was and I said, “Alice Cooper”…<laughs>

gJg: Do you have your own “rock star” moment?

AD: I once did an episode of “The Adventures of Superboy” where I actually got to play a rock star who needed to be protected. My hair was wild and I got to “perform” on a huge stage. I particularly remember the scene with my limousine pulling out and everyone pounding on the car. That was a fun gig!

gJg: What are you working on right now?

AD: I’ve been taking art classes here in Vancouver. I do charcoal and some ink projects. I’m also self publishing my own children’s book, “Harold and Agatha and The Mysterious Jewel”. It’s very exciting but a lot of work. I’m going to be doing the illustrations myself as well. 

As far as acting goes, I have a few things going right now, but I can’t really talk about them…yet. <laughs>

Article first published as A Conversation With Actress Ami Dolenz on Technorati.

1980's, A Conversation With, Interview

Guitar World Interview: Loverboy Guitarist Paul Dean

Loverboy, the Canadian rock band whose songs “Working For The Weekend,” “Hot Girls in Love” and “Queen of The Broken Hearts” have become staples of classic rock radio, have released Rock ‘N’ Roll Revival, a new album of re-recorded hits and new songs.

The band is on a massive nationwide tour supporting fellow veteran rockers Journey, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo.

I had the chance to speak with guitarist Paul Dean about Rock ‘N’ Roll Revival as well as his current guitar setup and the origins of some of Loverboy’s biggest hits.

GUITAR WORLD: What made you decide to re-record and put together Rock ‘N’ Roll Revival?

The album started off with “Heartbreaker,” a song outline sent to us by acclaimed producer and good friend Bob Rock. Bob and I go all the way back to 1980, when he was the engineer on our first self-titled album. The first time I heard the song, it was instant for me; I could hear Mike Reno singing the bejeezus out of it….

Read the rest of the interview here