Category: Interview

Interview, Music

Singer Julie Roberts Plans Unique Birthday Celebration
Photo Credit: Jon-Paul Bruno
Photo Credit: Jon-Paul Bruno

Aside from the fact that she already has a gold record in her arsenal and performed on some of the biggest stages in country music, Julie Roberts is the epitome of what a true artist should be. She loves her faith, her family and her fans.

She’s also involved in nearly every aspect of her music. From writing songs and recording new music to building her brand and physically taking autographed CDs to the post office to mail, the beautiful songstress totally believes in her purpose. Now, Julie’s about to celebrate her birthday by doing something she’s never done before.

On Friday, February 1st at 10pm EST, Julie will be broadcasting an intimate concert performance via the Internet on StageIt.

Think of StageIt as an online concert venue. One where artists broadcast LIVE interactive performances directly from a laptop or computer to fans all over the world; offering a totally unique concert experience that you can’t get anywhere else. Fans can log on and tune in from the comfort of their own home from anywhere in the world and see Julie perform her signature hits as well as new music she’s currently working on.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Julie and getting more info about her upcoming StageIt show as well as her new music and plans for 2013!

How will the StageIt show be different from other ones you’ve done?

The show is done via the Internet and is very intimate. I’ll be performing the show at a really cool venue I discovered right before Christmas called The Music Loft. I’ll be there with my guitar player. The cost is $5 and people can sign in from anywhere.

It will also be on my birthday, February 1st. I’d want nothing more for my birthday than to be playing shows everywhere. Since I don’t have one booked right now, I decided to book one myself! [laughs]

What can fans expect to hear at the show?

I’ll be playing some new music that I’ve been working on as well as performing some of the songs everyone knows and loves. There will also be a live chat as well.  I’ll have someone there monitoring the session to let me know what everyone is saying and what songs people would like to hear. It will be fun. This will be my first time doing one of these shows, so I’ll learn a lot from it. I may even try doing them on a regular basis. Even from the studio or from my home.

You’re also working on new material for an album?

I am. I have about half of a new album completed. I have a lot to say and I’m really excited to get it out. I’ve also started a new series on my website called ‘Naked Series’. These are songs that I’ve written or loved that are stripped down with just one or two instruments and my voice.  

What is your process for writing songs?

Every song is a little bit different for me. A lot of the songs I write are based on what I’m going through in life at that moment. Sometimes, late at night I’ll come up with a melody line or an idea. It might be something that I’ve been thinking about for a long time that would make for a great song.

What else do you have planned for 2013?

I plan to release the new album project I’m working on and perform as much as possible. I’m really excited about getting back out on the road. I’ll also be involved in the National MS Society this year. I want to help bring awareness to it. I’ve had MS since 2005 and feel that raising awareness is part of my journey. There are so many people who don’t even know about MS or have misconceptions about it, and the Society helps so many people. These things all mean a lot to me.

You’re such an emotional, soulful singer. Is there a secret to how you bring life to the songs you sing?

I have to detach myself from life and become that song. For me, that’s what I think an artist does. You take the song and make it art. I feel most comfortable and  “right there” when I can get inside of the lyric and become the song.

It just comes naturally for you.

I know that it’s my purpose in life. To be on this Earth, singing and connecting with people every night with my music. I love what I do.

For more information on Julie Roberts’ Birthday Bash show on StageIt – Click Here!

Article first published as Singer Julie Roberts Plans Unique Birthday Celebration on Technorati.

Interview, Movie Reviews

Actress Lindsey Shaw Discusses New Film, “Love Me”

love meSixteen-year-old Melissa Kennedy has been missing for almost three months, and the town of Ridgedale is starting to become unglued. Meanwhile, Sylvia Potter (Lindsey Shaw) wants badly to be in love. That’s when quiet, rich kid Lucas Green (Jamie Johnston) transfers to Hampton Prep and sparks begin to fly. But, what begins as a simple love story soon takes a major twist as police begin investigating Lucas’ involvement in the Melissa Kennedy case.

“Love Me” stars Lindsey Shaw (“Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide”, “Pretty Little Liars”), Jamie Johnston (“Degrassi: The Next Generation”), Jean-Luc Bilodeau (“Baby Daddy”), and Kaitlyn Leeb (Total Recall).

Aside from the mystery and intrigue involved as we discover what’s happened to Melissa, it’s the little things in “Love Me” that actually make this film work for me. Whether it’s the “old fashioned” elements like Sylvia working at a classic movie cinema, friends hanging out on campus or at a diner, the longing to find a meaningful love or the relationship Sylvia shares with her mother, there are human qualities to the characters that make them easy to relate to.

Its also worth noting Shaw’s amazing performance in the film. Her portrayal of Sylvia Potter is refreshing as she runs a roller coaster of emotion as a girl who yearns above all else to be in love. “Love Me” only solidifies Lindsey as an actress on the rise and one that can easily carry a film.

I had the chance to speak with Lindsey about her role and what she liked most about “Love Me”.

What attracted you most to this role?

I really like the genre. When I was younger, I liked a film called “Fear” with Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon. I loved Reese’s character and that’s what I saw Sylvia Potter as in this script. Along that same story line. There’s something about the twist of love story that really gets me. There were also so many unique elements that you don’t see in teenage love stories. It’s old-fashioned in a way, which was something that I really loved.

There was a lot of chemistry between you and Jamie Johnston (Lucas Green).

Jamie and I are total opposite people on every single front, but I think that helped each of our characters. We really took the time to get to know each other and some of that “first phase” awkwardness really comes across well on-screen. In the movie, Sylvia and Lucas are nothing alike and yet, as soon as they see each other something sparks within them. It was very cool.

How would you describe the story of “Love Me”?

It’s a love story that takes a really dramatic turn when you realize that one of the lovers is actually caught up in his own love triangle. It’s a crazy love story with some murder on top.

Several of your scenes are very emotional. Where do you draw inspiration from for those kind of moments?

It comes naturally. Just being there in the moment and breaking down the scene and the elements. Those kind of emotions are things we all can go through inside. 

What did you like most about the movie?

I really liked the anticipation and the intense feelings before the drama occurs (like the scenes where she’s at the diner). That whole “first love” feeling. It’s naive but beautiful at the same time. That was fun to portray.

What’s next for you?

A horror film called “No One Lives”.  It’s directed by Ryûhei Kitamura and should be released in the next few months.

“Love Me” is available now on Blu-Ray and DVD from Anchor Bay Entertainment and include the following featurettes: “Behind the Scenes” and “Stories from the Set.”

Article first published as Actress Lindsey Shaw Discusses New Film, “Love Me” on Technorati.

Books, Guitar World Interviews, Interview, Music

Guitar World Interview – Ingrid Croce Discusses New Book on The Life of Husband, Jim Croce

IGotaNameNearly forty years after his death Jim Croce, the man whose hits include “Time In A Bottle”, “Bad Bad Leroy Brown” and “You Don’t Mess Around With Jim” continues to inspire generations of fans with his music.

Having been the victim of bad record deals over the course of his career, Croce never saw the fortune that went along with his fame. Relegated instead to earning a few dollars a week writing songs while at the same time shopping for clothes in thrift stores. But Jim never lost his passion for music, his wife Ingrid or his son, Adrian James “A.J.” Croce.

Croce, who would have turned 70 on January 10th, 2013, died in a plane crash shortly after a show in September of 1973. In the years since his death, Ingrid Croce has received several requests to help tell the story of the working man’s singer, but all were ultimately shelved when attempts were made to embellish the real story behind Jim’s life and times.

Fortunately, Ingrid (along with current husband Jimmy Rock) has finally released the real story of her late husband’s life and career. The book, “I Got A Name: The Jim Croce Story” is an inspiring and intimate look into the lives of Jim and Ingrid Croce, both of who were working folk musicians in the late 1960’s. From Jim’s early years performing while barely making ends meet, to the partnership and love he shared with Ingrid, to the ill-fated flight that abruptly ended his life, “I Got A Name: The Jim Croce Story”  is an honest, accurate portrayal of one of the greatest story tellers of our time, told by the one person who knew him best.

You can read the rest of my article on the Guitar World or Guitar Aficionado Websites!

Interview, Movies and TV

A Slice of CUT!: David Rountree and Dahlia Salem Discuss Unique Horror Film

CUTNothing is as it seems as an ex-con and aspirant filmmaker set out to manufacture a horror film by scaring real people. However, when things go too far and someone actually dies, the pair decide that killing for real on film is the way to make a truly terrifying movie.

The premise for CUT! is a unique approach to the genre of horror film making. Director David Rountree (along with actor and writing partner David Banks) bring forth a one of a kind “suspense thriller within a horror film” and along the way, manage to pay homage to one of the classic horror films of a generation.

With an amazing storyline, an ensemble that includes Dahlia Salem, Sam Scarber, Suze Lanier-Bramlett, Gabrielle Stone and Academy Award winner Victoria Sampson at the helm for sound editing, CUT! is sure to be one of the most anticipated horror films of 2013.

I had the opportunity to speak with both director David Rountree and Dahlia Salem, the beautiful actress who plays Chloe Jo in CUT!.

Director David Rountree

What’s the current status of CUT!?

DR: We were originally planning for a Halloween release, but then we had Victoria Sampson come on board to do post audio. She’s an Academy Award winner who’s work includes films going back to ‘Return of The Jedi’, ‘Pirates of The Caribbean’, ‘Donnie Darko’ and ‘Bad Boys’. She has about 200 films to her credit and won the Academy Award for ‘Speed’. When she signed on we pushed our release date back a bit.

How did you and David come up with the idea for CUT!?

DR: David and I had written a comedy script a few years ago and were looking to start filming it during the summer of 2012. I wasn’t a fan of just sitting around so while we were waiting we came up with the idea of making something while we were in pre-production. We started talking about movies like ‘Blair Witch’ and ‘Paranormal Activity’ and came up with the concept of two guys that live together and want to make a cheap movie just to have fun. The goal was they would be very professional but then as it unfolds, things go wrong.

RountreeWe figured we’d have a quick turnaround time and could get it out there and have fun doing it. So we started planning it and really spent a lot of time working on the opening scene. Once we shot it, our distributor looked at it and was very excited. He told us that if we can do this, we’d have a real shot at knocking it out of the park.

Our production immediately turned upside down and we really set this project into motion. What began as a straight forward horror movie became more intelligent during the process and is now a film that makes you think a little along the way.

It’s become a solid suspense thriller inside of a horror movie.

What’s the story of CUT!?

DR: The original idea of the movie is for the characters Lane and Travis to make a horror film. But when things go bad and someone actually dies, they have to make a decision. The footage they have is so amazing that either they turn themselves into the police for murder or run with this plan.

Tell me about the connection of the film to “The Hills Have Eyes”.

We created the role for Suze Lanier-Bramlett where she plays herself as a former actor turned director. Originally, the plan to have both she and Dee Wallace Stone. Both of them were in the original ‘The Hills Have Eyes’. Dee was involved in another film at the time but we were lucky and her daughter, Gabrielle Stone came on board.

What’s your next project?

DR: I’m working on a baseball story with the Orem Owlz, a minor league team in Utah. I’ve been collaborating with the owner there about doing a story similar to Bull Durham, about a real life of a baseball player in the minor leagues.

Dahlia Salem as Chloe Jo

dahliaHow did you find out about this role?

DS: I was introduced to David Rountree by a mutual friend, Mike Simon (who also plays Adam in the film). David told me about the film and I thought it was interesting and very creative. It was also a labor of love for both he and David Banks and I wanted to be a part of that kind of collaboration.

What did you like most about the script?

DS:  What I liked most about the script was the concept of it being a horror film within a horror film, and it was unlike anything I ever worked on. My character (Chloe Joe) is an accessory to the vision and deception of Travis (David Rountree) and Lane’s (David Banks) plan.

These guys take things to the extreme for the risk and excitement, as well as the potential success they can receive for what they’re creating and getting away with! Chloe Joe I imagine, was attracted to their drive and  goes along for the ride!

What was it like working with David Rountree?

David Rountree is a consummate professional, as well as fun and easy to work with! David is such a good director in that he allows each actor the freedom to create what they want in the moment. It was very raw, and each character in CUT! fits in like a puzzle. I’m really excited to see the end product.

Are you a fan of horror movies?

DS: I certainly am! It’s a fascinating and mysterious genre. I’m a huge fan of John Carpenter’s Halloween, my favorite horror film of all time.

What other projects are you currently involved in?

DS: I just finished working as a guest star on the ABC drama, ‘Body of Proof’. I play an assistant district attorney and there’s a chance that she can return which is pretty exciting. The episode will most likely air sometime in March.

I also do a lot of voice over work. I do narration for a show called ‘Big Rich Texas’ on the Style Network. It’s a different animal all together not being on the camera side. You can be very creative with your voice. I love that kind of work as well.

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

I love yoga, tennis and teaching acting to children. A friend opened a children’s weekend acting program in Orange County, and I was a guest teacher. To watch kids come out of their shell to create and learn, was such a great experience for me.

I’m also doing a bit of writing, collaborating on a script I wrote loosely based on true events in my life. It’s a “dramedy” and I hope to create it into a TV or Web series. We’ll see, it’s feels pretty challenging!  I have to really commend David Rountree and David Banks in wearing so many hats for CUT! with writing, acting and directing! They truly inspire me.

Article first published as A Slice of CUT!: David Rountree and Dahlia Salem Discuss Unique Horror Film on Technorati.


Interview, Movies and TV

HUFF: Charlie O’Connell And Natasha Alam Discuss Horror/Thriller

Huff_Poster

Charlie O’Connell and Natasha Alam have some serious chemistry going on in HUFF, a twisted take on the fairy tale classic “The Three Little Pigs”. O’Connell is creepy in the role of Huff, an unfaithful husband and abusive step father to three teenaged daughters living in poverty in California.

When a drug deal to set him up for life goes awry and the daughters leave with the money, Huff takes out his anger on those around him in a mad attempt to retrieve his loot. His only weakness? An asthma induced need to use an inhaler which may give the girls a fighting chance of survival.

Natasha Alam is amazing in the role of Laci, Huff’s beautiful mistress. Her sexiness and charm is equaled by the way she is freely able to express emotion on-screen during troubling situations; particularly when she is being threatened by Huff.

“HUFF” (being released internationally as “Big Bad Wolf”) also stars Marie Bollinger, Elina Madison and Elly Stefanko.

I spoke with Charlie and Natasha about their experiences working on “HUFF”, a film set for world-wide release next Spring.

Charlie O’Connell

What did you like most about the role of HUFF?

CO: I’ve always loved horror and slasher movies. I normally play a really nice guy or a jock, but definitely not a villain, so getting the chance to do that with “HUFF” was something that I really liked. Also, in some horror movies (ones with a Jason or a Freddy Krueger), those guys wore masks. I enjoyed the fact that I got to play a really evil guy who didn’t wear a mask. I didn’t have anything to hide behind, except for the inhaler that I had to work with.
How was it working with such a great cast?

CO: Everyone did a great job. Elina (Madison) has done a few of these types of movies before and played it like a veteran. Marie (Bollinger) was great as well, particularly in the scene where I’m in the bedroom with the youngest daughter (Elly Stefanko) and she steps in to protect her. That was a great scene.

Were there any challenges to shooting the film?

CO: We were shooting close to Valencia, CA and I remember it was so cold. Those last scenes where I had to run around with my shirt off could possibly have been the coldest days of the year in LA [laughs]. The weather was probably the hardest thing to deal with.

Any funny stories to share?

CO: I’d have to say the scene where Marie carries Elly on a huge, long trek was the funniest.There’s a quick cut in the scene which works perfectly because she just couldn’t carry her anymore. I had already wrapped for the day but wouldn’t leave because I wanted to see it. I remember taking bets on when she was going to drop her. She must have carried her at least 500 yards that day. But that’s the kind of trooper Marie was. And when she finally did get finished, Paul (Morrell, Director) said: “Great! Can you do it one more time?”.. [laughs]

What’s your favorite scene?

CO: Probably the one where the guys come to the door to get the drug money. When it comes to horror movies that may not have the biggest budget, it’s the little things that become the most important: the editing, finding out what works and what doesn’t work, the death scenes. That particular scene flew so well. It was such good violence right off the bat. But that’s what kind of movie this is. It’ a bloody/slasher/thriller. When you see that scene you say, “Holy S%iT! I’m in for something here!”

The scene of you with Shay (Elly Stefanko) near the hay stack is pretty creepy too.

CO: Yes, the crossing from far and then coming up on her! Elly did a great job. It was the first film she’s ever done and she put a lot of work into it.

What do you liked most about seeing the completed film?

CO: One of the things I enjoyed the most was seeing which takes were chosen and which ones were left on the cutting room floor. I really like to see what works and what doesn’t make it.

We also did quite a few screenings of the film at festivals and I found myself crouching at times because it was so creepy. Paul did a great job.

Natasha Alam

What attracted you most to the role of Laci?

NA: It was a great chance for me to really showcase my acting skills and give me the opportunity to do more action and drama.

What was the audition process like?

NA: It was awesome. I felt really good about it. Initially, there was another actor auditioning for the role of Huff who was a lot shorter than Charlie. He was a great actor, but just didn’t look right for the part. When Charlie came in, we complemented each other so well.

NatashaAlamWere you at all inhibited by the risqué’ bedroom scene?

NA: Not at all. Prior to this role, I had worked on ‘True Blood’ which has very racy, skin showing/revealing scenes. That was my first experience into sexiness and  being racy and it made my scenes in ‘HUFF’ that much easier.

How are you able to “turn on the tears” so easily?

NA: Before I actually had a child of my own, I couldn’t feel that emotion and know how to play those kind of roles. It just didn’t feel natural. But, after having my daughter and now having those feelings, it was an amazing discovery. To play a role like this you need to have some kind of experience of what it might feel like to lose someone. For the scenes where Charlie wasn’t letting me go, I based that upon past bad relationships. You usually can dig into your past and re-live that emotion again.

How did you get started?

NA: I was going to school at the University Uzbekistan (my home country where i was born and raised), but civics and mathematics didn’t really agree with me [laughs]. Although I am interested in that now, back then I wasn’t interested at all. I was more drawn to fashion, acting and being a designer; something that was creative. So I was studying at University and at the same time going to college to study fashion design.

After about a year and half, the opportunity came along for me to go to Milan and become a model. I quickly jumped on that and went out to discover the world.

What projects are you working on now?

NA: I just finished a guest-starring role for an episode of ‘Body of Proof’ which was a wonderful experience. The episode should air sometime next year.

I’ve also just finished writing a pilot for a fast paced spy show called ‘Canary’. It’s like Mr.and Mrs. Smith Meets Alias /Kill Bill and Bond movies all mixed together. It’s action loaded and I’m really excited about it.

Article first published as HUFF: Charlie O’Connell And Natasha Alam Discuss New Horror/Thriller on Technorati.

Interview, Movies and TV, Music

Actress Jenna Stone Talks Movies, Music and Metal

JennaSWhether she’s playing the role of a teenage friend (Edge of Salvation), rocking out at a hair metal concert (RATT music video) or running for her life from a drug-dealing step father (HUFF); Jenna Stone is an actress who can do it all. In real life, she’s one of the most talented and down to Earth people I’ve ever met.

2013 will be a good year for the beautiful, young actress. With two films already slated for release early in the New Year, there’s no denying Jenna Stone is an actress you need to keep your eye on.

In this cool interview, Jenna talks about her role as Styx in the soon to be released horror/thriller “HUFF” as well as story line for the feel good movie, “Edge of Salvation”. We also discuss her “metal head” connection and the multiple music videos she’s appeared in over the course of her career. One that’s just getting started.

How would you describe the story of “HUFF”?

JS: It’s a twisted version of a fairy tale based on “The Three Little Pigs” where Charlie (O’Connell) plays Huff (the Big Bad Wolf) and Marie (Bollinger), myself and Elly (Stefanko) are his step-daughters (the three pigs): Brixi, Styx and Shay. Everything starts off innocently enough with Huff and the girls having a family moment reading scripture together, but you quickly find out that this is not a normal household.

Huff is actually a drug dealer and our mother (Elina Madison) is unaware of the abuse he’s been taking out on his step-daughters. When she does find out, she decides to take his drug money and give it to the girls so that they can run off and start new lives. Huff of course, is not too happy when he finds out about it and so… bloody pursuit ensues! [laughs]

How did the role come about for you?

JS: I was originally called in for the audition. During the call back, I went in a did a chemistry read with Randy (Blekitas), who plays my boyfriend, Woody. That went extremely well. From there, I went to the table read. I was a bit nervous at first because it was such an intense script, but everyone there was so cool and relaxed. It was a lot of fun.

What can you tell me about your character, Styx?

JS: Styx is definitely the free-minded one. She’s independent and strong and does her own thing. I really love her attitude. Through all of it, she just stands her ground. She has very strong beliefs about what should and should not be done in certain situations.

Some of your scenes in ‘HUFF’ were pretty physical. How do you prepare yourself for that?

It varies from scene to scene. As far as Styx the character goes, I was able to connect with her easily so that helped a lot. For the more physical and scary scenes, everyone was on the same page as far as not wanting to be prepared for what was coming next. It was exciting to not know certain aspects of what was going to happen (like where Charlie would be coming from when he was chasing me). What physically took a toll, aside from how cold it was while we were filming was the hair dragging. But I wanted it to be as real and genuine as possible, so we just did it. For me, it’s about the moment.

Tell me about another one of your recent films, ‘Edge of Salvation’.

JS: ‘Edge Of Salvation’ is the story of a family who is losing their home and at the same time adopting a young boy who lost his parents. It’s about how the emotion and dynamics of a struggling family are affected when a new family member in introduced.  It’s a faith-based, coming together story that’s very honest and real.

When you see yourself on-screen, are you able to separate yourself from the performance or do you critique it?

JS: I try to sit back and just take the story in as a whole. It’s always interesting to see which scenes they choose for the final cut.

Jenna Stone Music Videos

What do you find most intriguing about doing music videos?

JS: Music videos are always fun to do because they’re their own unique thing.

* The Spill Canvas: Staplegunned

How did this video come about and where was it filmed?

JS: I was called in for an audition and told what the video was going to be like. It was filmed in this old, creepy house that had been used for horror films.

What’s the story behind this video?

JS: For me, I think they took the words from the song and made it more on the darker, almost morbid side as far as imagery goes. It created the mentality of kids that age and why they feel the way they do about someone they love. It gets kind of crazy sometimes. [laughs].

* The Fray: Heartbeat

Were you already a fan of the band prior to this video?

JS: Their first CD was one that my Mom and I would blast on repeat when we would drive from Dallas to LA. I had worked with the director before on another project so when he told me who it was and asked if I had heard of them I said, “Of course!”  [laughs]

What did you like most about this video?

JS:  I like that it’s two different stories, so it kind of has the double meaning. The scenes we shot were all pretty much candid and real.  It was a really fun shoot.

* RATT: Eat Me Up Alive

JS: This video is supposed to be a live, concert-styled performance and I was one of the people in the crowd. It was a lot of fun. I got to meet the guys in the band and they were very cool.

What was it like when you first decided to become an actor?

JS: I remember my parents were a little surprised when I first told them that I wanted to get into acting. But we started doing research and I began taking acting and modeling classes. Eventually, I met a manager who encouraged me to come to LA and since then, I’ve never looked back.

Fun And Games, Interview

Hollywood Is Hard For Frutron and Kimmy Kim
Frutron
Frutron

Somewhere amid all of the glitz and glamour of the Los Angeles scene lies the somewhat bizarre world of Frutron and Kimmy Kim. It’s a world where wedgies are doled out as freely as candy, Fruity Pebbles are used at bath salts and cheeseburgers replace silicon implants.

Collectively, they are known as Hollywood is Hard, an alternate reality web show about two girls who navigate through the cartoon world of Hollywood.

With nearly one million views on You Tube, these ladies really know how to tickle the funny bone. And although their subject matter sometimes crosses the line between the risqué and the extreme, you’d be hard pressed to find two women who are as funny and open about their “pseudo-lives” as Frutron and Kimmy Kim.

I sat down (with my underwear facing away from her or course) with Frutron and got the inside scoop on these wedgie giving, wiener lovin’, Fruity Pebble bathing beauties as she share the secrets behind Hollywood is Hard. During the course of our conversation, Frutron (the nerdy one who refuses to reveal her real name) informed me that there has been talk of the wedgie videos going away, much to the chagrin of this reporter. This would be a tragedy of epic proportions.

Kimmy Kim and Frutron of Hollywood is Hard
Kimmy Kim and Frutron of Hollywood Is Hard

What’s your story?

FT: I would like to say that I was homeless and sleeping in my car and ran into all of this success but none of that’s true. The truth is,  I went to high school in San Francisco and went to art school at the same time. Originally, I thought I wanted to draw comic books, but a year into that I began thinking that comic books just weren’t cool and that I’d never make money drawing (of course, now comic books ARE cool). And although I didn’t pursue drawing, I can storyboard really well which helps with our production.

What brought you to LA?

FT: I wanted to become an actor and was doing commercials; going back and forth between San Francisco and LA. for auditions. A few years ago, I decided to leave my safety net and move here.

I’ve never been a person who was passionate about being a “SERIOUS” actor, but always loved comedy and dreamed of being on Saturday Night Live or MAD TV.

How did you meet Kimmy Kim?

FT: Kimmy Kim and I would see each other in passing while going on auditions. At certain points in our lives, we both had similar looks and knew each other from acting jobs. I always thought she was funny but never thought I’d actually be working with her.

One night, we ended up being at a writing session together that one of our mutual friends had set up. We were both at a point in our careers where we wanted to do something where we were in control. I’m not sure how it is for men, but as a lady you really risk a lot by doing movies that turn out to not be the type of movie you thought it was going to be. You don’t want to have to say, “Oh, GREAT! Now I’m a Sci-fi lesbian space alien in a shit movie!” [laughs]

The other thing is, we both wanted to do something for our career instead of waiting around for some asshole who’s going to want a blow job to give us a part in some shitty movie. Honestly dude, I’m horrible at giving them so it wouldn’t get me a movie part anyway. I’m terrible in the sack so I don’t have that going for me. [laughs]

Our really good friend, Andrew Bentler, who’s the most amazingly talented editor actually knew both of us separately. He was the one who suggested that Kimmy Kim and I should do something together. And once she and I got together, we both found out we were on the same page.

Wedgie of Death

Wieners

FT: I have to tell you, ‘Wieners’ is my favorite episode. When I watch it, it’s not even like watching us.

Fruity Pebbles Bath Time

How do you come up with ideas?

FT: It’s all about what goes on in our daily lives. For instance, one day Kimmy Kim texted me and said (jokingly) “Frutron? I want to get a boob job.” And then I said, “You should stuff cheeseburgers in your bra!” And that would become an episode.

Kimmy Kim Gets Boobs

That’s how it usually starts. We start off with an idea and then everyone puts in stuff. We’ll all write together and then Andrew is just fantastic about taking those ideas and turning them into a story. Basically, we take shit that happens in our lives and then horrifically exaggerate what actually happens.

For more on Frutron, Kimmy Kim and Hollywood is Hard Click Here

 

A Conversation With, Interview, Movies and TV

A Conversation With Actress Elina Madison

ElinaWhile growing up, Elina Madison recalls being at her grandmother’s house watching TV and being so enthralled with what was on that she turned to her grandmother and told her that she wanted to become an actress. From that moment on, she’s never looked back or lost sight of her dream.

Elina found that there weren’t a lot of opportunities to act in her home state of Wyoming so she eventually made her way to Los Angeles where she has since become a sought after model and actress and been awarded the title of “scream-queen” based upon her memorable roles in the realm of horror.

In one of Elina’s latest projects, “HUFF” she plays Lorelei, the dysfunctional wife of Huff, an abusive and asthma suffering stepfather who’s involved in a lucrative drug deal. Seemingly oblivious to the abuse that’s going on around her, Lorelei (a stripper by trade) delivers one of the most memorable lines in the entire film:

‘We need the money and the pole’s not going to dance by itself.”

Lorelei eventually comes to her senses and realizes that she has to get her children out of there. She secretly takes the money intended for the drug deal and gives it to her daughters to flee and start better lives for themselves. This series of events triggers a chain of rage-induced asthma attacks as Huff attempts to locate the three runaways and recover his money. Elina’s amazing, emotional scene on the couch with co-star Charlie O’Connell (Huff) sets the mood for the entire second half of the film.

“HUFF” will be released domestically in April and under the title “Big Bad Wolf” for international markets.

Elina’s resume includes roles in “Halloween Party” (a dark comedy available now on DVD), Barracuda, and The Corporate Cut Throat Massacre. In addition, you can also find Elina playing the Mother in the promo / trailer for Alicia Keys’ children’s educational app: “The Journals of Mama Mae & Lee Lee.”.

Elina’s next film role will be as the wife of the Prince of the undead in Creep Creepersin’s Dracula.

Aside from her beauty and acting prowess, Elina is one of the most down to Earth and coolest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of speaking with.

gJg: What’s the premise of HUFF?

EM: HUFF is actually a twisted version of the story of “The Three Little Pigs” with Huff being the wolf and the daughters being the three little pigs. Huff also has asthma which goes along with the lines of the story of “huffing and puffing”. Huff is up to no good and making a deal with drug money that’s not his. My character finally has had enough and realizes that she has to get her children out of there. So she steals the money, gives it to them and tells them to leave. It’s because of her actions that there are some unbelievable consequences.

How did you prepare for the role of Lorelei?

EM: Lorelei is just so caught up in her own little world. She’s an alcoholic mother in denial about what’s going on between her daughters and Huff. I’ve done some crazy characters before, but never one this complex. Getting into that kind of mindset took some work.

Tell me a little about your next film, Creep Creepersin’s Dracula.

It’s a different spin on the classic story but it’s also more about the perception of Dracula and the reality of everything. I play Francine, his wife who you don’t know whether is a “good” wife or an “evil” wife up to no good. Everything is taken completely different depending on how you’re looking at it.  It’s scheduled to be released in January.

What other projects are you currently working on?

EM: Right now I’m shooting a show for Spike TV called ‘Urban Tarzan’. I play a well to do wife who didn’t go to college and got married for money and have been enjoying a life of leisure. My husband and I live in a big house and we’re going through a divorce. He wants me to take this horrible deal and I wind up fighting him for the house. He ends up putting a crocodile in the swimming pool hoping i jump in and don’t notice. [laughs]

It’s funny for Spike and has that crazy element to it.

THIS GIRL IS ON FIRE

Elina Madison is a rising star who will be seen all over the world in the coming months! Her career is truly on fire.

 Elina

– In April 2013, she’ll star as the desperate mother and abused wife Lorelei in Huff (with Charlie O’Connell).

– She plays an edgy, flirtatious Cave Girl in Halloween Party a twisted comedy (just released on DVD).

– In January 2013 Elina stars as Francine, the beautiful and loyal wife of Dracula in Creep Creepersin’s Dracula.

– Look for her in the highly acclaimed film Barracuda, starring opposite Christine Oldham as the well to do socialite “Lisa.”

Also coming in 2013 Elina plays the lead Alana Wilson, a caring mother and housewife in Ramone Menon’s psychological thriller The Black Tape.

Article first published as A Conversation With Actress Elina Madison on Technorati.

Interview, Movies and TV

Actress Cortney Palm Discusses New Crime Thriller, “Sushi Girl”

CortneyPalmA work of art. That’s what best describes both actress Cortney Palm and her latest movie, “Sushi Girl”. Whether it’s the beautiful cinematography or the element of surprise that keeps you guessing until the very end, Sushi Girl (releasing world-wide on DVD February 19th) is a story and film worthy of the big screen.

Sushi Girl tells the story of Fish; a newly released convict who has spent the last six years in jail successfully not ratting out those involved in the diamond robbery that sent him to prison. On the night of his release, he and the four men he’s protected celebrate his freedom with a Nyotaimori, a meal consisting of a lavish array of sushi served off the naked body of a beautiful young woman (Cortney Palm). Sushi Girl must appear catatonic, and is trained to ignore everything in the room regardless of the danger. But there’s more than meets the eye in this crime thriller. Old wounds are opened among the thieves amid accusations of what became of their missing diamonds.

Palm is more than comfortable in her own skin, and for her role as Sushi Girl she has to be. Appearing nearly nude the entire time, she’s more than convincing in the role, leaving almost nothing to the imagination.

Sushi Girl also features memorable performances by Tony Todd (Candyman), Mark Hamill (Star Wars), James Duvall (Independence Day), Noah Hathaway (The Never Ending Story) and Andy Mackenzie (True Blood).

I had the pleasure of speaking with Cortney about her work on Sushi Girl. We also discuss her role as the ill-fated Maria in the horror film, “Silent Night” as well as the significance behind some of her amazing tattoos.

Cortney Palm is laying the foundation for a long and fruitful career. Her performances thus far are worthy of praise, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for this amazing actress.

gJg: What attracted you most to the role of Sushi Girl?

CP: I really liked the way the story was written and the way my character was portrayed on the page. She had something really good to offer. She was subtle and powerful and I really enjoy playing characters like that; women who are strong or have a purpose.

gJg: What was it like for you working with iconic actors like Mark Hamill and Tony Todd?

CP: Tony was amazing. He just brought 110% every day so it was much easier for me to just play off of him. We shot the film primarily in chronological order and you could just feel the emotion and the buildup. For Mark, I remember being a little nervous at our table read when he showed up.  But at the same time, we’re all there for the craft. Sometimes it may be kind of unnerving being around actors who’ve done so much and are so iconic, but you have to stay true to your character and true to your art.

Cortney Palm in Sushi Girl
Cortney Palm in “Sushi Girl”

gJg: Mark’s character, Crow is definitely no Luke Skywalker.

CP: Mark is such a smart talented actor who’s done a lot of theater and film work. He really made that character come to life.

gJg: How would describe the story of Sushi Girl?

CP: It’s a crime thriller where something is going on and everyone wants to get to the bottom of it. But it’s also a story of revenge. We like to say revenge is a dish best served cold and that’s really the epitome of what the film is all about.

gJg: One of the best elements of Sushi Girl is the beautiful cinematography.

CP: Aaron Meister, the director of photography really makes that film what it is. He and Kern (Saxton, Director) had a great vision and just projected it beautifully. It’s a great film, and cinematically it’s perfect! I will never look at my body the same way again. [laughs]

Silent Night
Cortney as Maria in ‘Silent Night’

gJg: Let’s talk a little about your character Maria in “Silent Night”.

CP: When I mentioned that I’m drawn to powerful women..she’s not. But, she has to fight to survive and that’s what makes it fun to play. I love expressing human emotion in films and with ‘Silent Night’, there’s plenty of that! [laughs]

gJg: Tell me about the infamous wood chipper scene.

CP: That was a fun scene to film. We really had a great team of people. Steven (Miller, Director) had a great vision and Joe (White, Cinematography) was right alongside of him making it work with me running through the trees.

gJg: Are you a fan of horror?

CP: I am a fan of the genre. I like movies like “The Ring”, “Mirrors” and “Silent Hill”.

gJg: What projects are you currently working on?

CP Right now, I’m working on ‘Fringes’ where I play a rabbi’s daughter. It’s the story about a Jewish community and a Catholic community at odds with one another, but when things start to break down around them they have to rely on each other to get through. It’s a brotherhood story.

gJg: Tell me a little bit about your tattoos.

CP:  I have several and all of them are real. On my inside right arm I have the quote “For peace with justice in harmony with nature”. On my wrist I have a gecko with the initials “LP” for Lake Powell. It’s significant to me because that’s one of my favorite places to go. The gecko also represents strength, agility and conservation. That’s important to remember in our world and our lifestyle. We need to conserve the land and enjoy what nature has to offer.

On my side I have the quote “Float Upon Sturdy Waters”.  Even though water isn’t really sturdy (because you sink down into it) you can float upon the surface and make it sturdy. You choose your own destiny.

Article first published as Actress Cortney Palm Discusses New Crime Thriller, “Sushi Girl” on Technorati.

Interview, Movies and TV

Director Paul Morrell Discusses Latest Horror/Thriller ‘HUFF’

paulMOnce upon a time there was a cool director named Paul Morrell who had a vision to direct a horror/thriller based upon the story of The Three Little Pigs. Together with a talented cast and crew, his vision of creating a twisted version of the classic fairy tale exceeds all expectations. The result of his efforts, “HUFF” contains all of the scares, screams and sexiness that make for great thrill ride.

“HUFF” stars Charlie O’Connell as Huff, an abusive stepfather to three teenage girls living in poverty in California. While on the verge of making a lucrative drug deal that will give him the money he needs to escape to Mexico with his sexy mistress, Laci (Natasha Alam), Huff’s plans unravel when his battered wife Lorelei (Elina Madison) secretly gives the money intended for the deal to her daughters and tells them to run away and seek better lives. The events that follow triggers a chain of rage-induced asthma attacks, as Huff attempts to locate the three runaways and recover his money.

HUFF also stars Marie Bollinger, Jenna Stone and Clint Howard and will be released in April. The film will also be released internationally under the title, “Big Bad Wolf”.

I spoke with Paul and got the inside scoop on “HUFF” as well as his next film project, “Casket County Massacre”.

How did the project for HUFF begin?

Paul Morrell (PM): We really wanted to write something that would hold up, so we came up with the concept of using The Three Little Pigs; an age old story.  It was also great timing. I had done a film called ‘Filth To Ashes’ that had received quite a bit of press, including a mention in The New York Times. The film even had a better opening weekend than ‘Paranormal Activity’.  From that, we were able to sign some really great actors.

There are quite a few innuendos with The Three Little Pigs.

PM: Some of the innuendos are quite blatant, like the use of the inhaler and Charlie’s character’s name (Huffington). In our research, the story kind of got neutered over the years. In the original story, the wolf actually eats all of the pigs. [laughs]

Tell me a little about the cast: Charlie O’Connell.

Charlie is known for comedic roles so this role was a bit of a challenge, but he came with great input. His comedic chops really shine without taking away from the story line. We ended up with a villain who’s both likeable and hate able at the same time.

Natahsa Alam.

PM: Natasha was extremely comfortable on set. She’s not just a model.  She’s super professional and her acting chops are top notch.

Elina Madison.

I wish we had her on set for longer. She was fantastic. We had originally written an enormously longer scene but the way she executed the scene was great with her eyes and her emotion was perfect.

Isn’t there a story behind how you got in touch with Marie Bollinger for the role of Brixi?

I have a really close friend, Sarah Zurell, who was in a movie with Marie called ‘Pelt’. When I sat down to watch the movie, I was immediately distracted by her. There was just something about Marie that was perfect. We wound up connecting with each other through Facebook.

What was the filming process like?

PM: When we were shooting some of the night scenes it was very cold and windy. It was abnormally cold for southern California. Jenna Stone (Styx) sat in the side car with that “bloody” face for almost three days. All night long while shooting, it was freezing cold.  I was all bundled up in boots and heavy jackets and was still cold. The girls were out in the cold in little bitty tops wearing a blanket in between takes. They were troopers.

Any funny stories you can remember while filming?

In the opening scene, when Charlie is reading to the little girls, we had him actually reading a nursery rhyme to them while we were shooting their faces to get laughs out of them.  Then, right in the middle of telling Goldie Locks and The Three Bears he goes into HUFF dialog, changing his voice and everything to “They were raped!!…”  It was incredibly funny. [laughs]

What are some of your favorite scenes?

PM: I really love the opening scene where Charlie is out chopping wood and then goes inside to read a bible story to the girls. I love how that turned out.  So creepy. I also love the fight scene with Elina when she and Charlie are sitting on the couch.

Another one of my favorite shots is where Charlie is holding Marie’s character down and pressing that knife into her chest. They were both so into the moment, she’s screaming and he’s holding her down. That scene was great.

huff_bbw

What project are you working on now?

PM: We’re working on an horror/icon film called ‘Casket County Massacre‘.  We’ve got Kane Hodder (Jason Friday The 13th) and Tyler Mane (X-Men, Halloween). We’re also working with Charlie and Clint Howard again.  The plan is to start shooting in January. We’re excited about it.

What’s the story of ‘Casket County Massacre’?

The legend of Casket County is, there were three brothers (The Garlock Family) who took over the town and slaughtered everyone in it while looking for gold. When they couldn’t find any, their ghosts were stuck there forever. An all-girl rock band cruises into town with plans to shoot a music video. When they get there, the ghosts are there and all hell ensues.

Article first published as Director Paul Morrell Discusses Latest Horror/Thriller HUFF on Technorati.