Please tell us something about your new projects since Things I Don’t Understand.
I actually took a little time to do some traveling. I spent time in India and Thailand to study Yoga and Ayurveda. Now that I am back I have a few projects I am playing around with and I am doing some writing of my own, but I am ready and excited for a new challenging role.
Having worked on a number of indie film projects, what things do you like in particular about independent films?
I love the passion and the chaos. I was originally drawn to independent film because I wanted to be a part of telling great stories without the hype. I wanted to be surrounded by people that had to make their movie, no matter what. Limited budget, location issues…whatever hurdles get in the way, indie filmmakers don’t stop and I love that. I love the family that is created on a film set and the sense of community that comes from a group of people with the same vision and the willingness to do what it takes.
Many actors and actresses go on to become directors. Is that something you might be interested in? If so, what would be the one film that you really want to direct?
Yes, totally. I think I could really enjoy directing though there is a lot for me to learn. I would love to direct a dark, moody film based in the 1970’s in NYC (of course). I’ve been writing for fun for a few years and there is one screenplay that I can’t seem to finish, but I can’t give up on either. I’d like to think that someday it will all come together.
If you get given the opportunity to work with any director of your choice, who would that be, and why?
Martin Scorsese. His work helped shape me as an artist. It was his films that gave me my first exposure to DeNiro and Pesci, which led me to Al Pacino. I’ve learned so much from watching those guys. However, I am pretty in love with Woody Allen too. I love his quirky take on life and the unique characters in his films. Right now, I don’t think I could choose between the two.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
“If nothing changes, nothing changes.” It’s so simple it’s almost stupid, but it helps me when a situation or circumstance isn’t working or if I’m expecting a different outcome. It’s easy to stay in our comfort zone and hope for big things, but making a change (big or small) creates a shift in your life and it’s bound to lead you to something new. Sometimes you need to take risks and shake things up a little.
Finally, what words of wisdom would you share with people who are considering a career in acting?
If you have to do it (and you will know if you have to) then do it, but fill your life with as much as you can. The richer your life is, the more adventures you go on and the more walks of life you encounter, the better you will be as a storyteller.
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