I'm Here With Magazine Issue 1 | Page 81

1. How did you first get your start in film?

My first start in film was a non speaking part as a troubled teen in a feature called Willfull Blindness directed by Calgary Lawyer Anita Szabo. The film was about young people who fall through the cracks of society. I played a young man who is processed into the young offenders system. We shot at the jail on Spyhill in Calgary and it was thrilling. It was one of those experiences that changed my idea about what acting was all about. It became more real for me. I mean our set was an actual operating prison. We had the chance to speak to some of the young inmates and they shared their stories with us which were so powerful. A thrilling first step.

2. What are you most passionate about in the world of film?

Right now is such an exciting time for film. I’m excited about the resurgence of being able to shoot on film. There is something magical about film compared to digital. Film is in our dna. I think we respond to it emotionally in a different way than digital. I’m hopeful that as a director I will be able to shoot on film very soon. It’s what I grew up on. It’s what I get excited about. I have an app on my phone called 8mm where I can shoot a video and then put a film filter on it. It’s awesome.

3. Your favorite inspirations, films and people?

I had a very profound moment when I was an eight-year-old kid and I saw the original Star Wars. It turned on my imagination and changed how I looked at the world. My favorite film is The Godfather Pt 2. It has all of the right ingredients in a movie to make it so amazing. Gun fights, deception, and some of the best acting on film. DeNiro is so believable and gives one of the best performances of his career.

I am inspired by Canadian Director Grant Harvey(Orphan Black, Heartland). Not only is he a great director with a keen eye and a gift for story telling he is also a good friend. But I covet his career like crazy.

4. Something we don’t know about you?

I love hockey especially the San Jose Sharks. I learned to skate when I was 41 and I absolutely love it. We had only been here in the USA for 5 weeks and I was skating at Staples Center. A huge thrill and a wonderful experience. I’m also working on an Alec Guiness impression that is almost ready to share.

Film