How did you first break into the industry?
I studied film at Full Sail University. My goal was to jump start a film acting career and learn the technical side of making movies. During my time at Full Sail, I discovered my love and respect for production and post-production audio. I used some of my loan money to purchase my first audio kit and started freelancing right after graduation, working on commercials, short films and documentaries. I had steady sound work from 2011 to 2014 but then took a nearly four year break from freelance to better support my growing family, working at two engineering and survey firms as a CAD Technician. I took sound and acting jobs when I could during those four years and in August 2019, I took the jump and started my freelance career back up. I've been lucky enough to find steady work again in production sound but also as a voice actor.
Who/What inspires you as an actor?
There is a moment that can occur on set that inspires me. It is the moment that every actor talks about, that special place we can go to between action and cut where we are so in the moment that it feels like a different reality. It is a moment that I always push for. I also get inspired by watching other actors on set and at the movie theater. Tom Hanks is usually my go to actor when I need a bit of inspiration. I can't tell you how many times I've watched Forrest Gump. Hanks' monologue during the scene where he is talking to Jenny's grave is one of the greatest performances in cinema history.
What was your best set moment on ’Slash’?
The best moment on set for "Slash" was during the living room scene where Chloe Carroll and I are watching the horror movie. The director, Wesley Mellot, allowed me to improv a bit and search for something special. The banter and chemistry between Chloe and I was amazing and it was one of the most enjoyable scenes I've worked on. It was also great seeing the crew working so hard and well together. It was a great group of people!
What sort of person is going to love this short?
I remember reading the script and thinking that the story had a universal appeal. We all have that person in our lives that we can't watch movies with because all they do is rip it apart and make comments during the entire movie. It was hilarious hearing and reading some of the comments where the viewer said the on screen relationship reminded them of their relationship. This is also a fun horror short, with a brilliant twist.
What advice would you give aspiring actors?
Be an actor who shows up to set early with your lines memorized, and most importantly be a decent human being. You could be the best actor and still not get work if you are mistreating people or causing problems. I always remind myself before taking a part that there will be money and people's time being spent on project, I had better not let them down. And don't forget to enjoy the process!