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Scream Queens: The Final Chapter Contents Scream Queens: An Introduction................................................................................... 3 Deedee Bigelow Interview ............................................................................................ 4 Cyndi Crotts Interview .................................................................................................. 6 Seregon O’Dassey Interview ....................................................................................... 13 Kelsey Zukowski Interview ......................................................................................... 15 Monica Rae Autumn Interview.................................................................................... 20 Kachina Dechert Interview .......................................................................................... 22 Nicole Kruex Interview ............................................................................................... 27 Erica Soto Interview .................................................................................................... 30 Kaylee Williams Interview .......................................................................................... 32 Bethany Taylor Interview ............................................................................................ 35
Edited By Trevor Wright Cover “Warped” By Lubi Proof-read By Samuel Diamond and Sheri White All material contained within the pages of this magazine and associated websites is copyright of Morpheus Tales. All Rights Reserved. No material contained herein can be copied or otherwise used without the express permission of the copyright holders.
Morpheus Tales Dark Sorcery Special Issue Available Now: www.morpheustales.com/specials.htm 2
Scream Queens: An Introduction The sound of a low howl drifts through the thick night air. She takes a deep breath, her heart is pounding, her eyes are wide... Alone, she continues walking into the pitch black darkness. “Why do I always put myself in these situations? Why isn’t there anyone else here?” she asks herself, as she steps on some leaves and the loud crunch of them under her feet makes her jump. It’s after midnight and she is trekking through the woods, trying to find her group of friends that she lost track of a few hours ago. So much for a fun camping trip. She swears she saw a shadow of someone near some trees, but tells herself it was just her imagination - probably a deer or some other wildlife. Amidst her thinking, she walks right into a large knocked down branch and falls. As she’s lying there trying to wrap her hands around a bleeding wound on her knee, someone stands over her. She looks up and sees a cloaked figure, face disfigured and covered in mud, holding a large axe. The blade is gleaming from the moonlight. She screams the most blood-curdling scream imaginable and tries to get up. But it’s too late. She is the Scream Queen. And... Cut! What exactly is a Scream Queen? She is a woman who brings brilliance into the horror genre. Scream Queens are beautiful and alluring, and captivate the audience. You can’t help but identify with her in certain situations. Whether you want to help her or destroy her, she’s the central focus of your mind. However, Scream Queens are not necessarily “victims” in any sense. They can be femme fatales too, like sword-wielding babes or the mistress who seduces you and then decides to poison you to death. They are in charge of making your heart race — and they do a damn good job at it too! A Scream Queen can be the innocent or the deviant, the heroine or the victim, the good girl or the bad girl. No matter who she is, she oozes sex appeal and has the talent to back it up. Ladies, how many times have you watched a horror flick and put yourself in the shoes of the girl on screen as she tries to escape the vicious killer? This girl, the Scream Queen, has the power to be a metaphor for our daily lives. She’s trying to save herself; often it doesn’t end well but sometimes she survives at the end of the movie. We want to know what happens. Guys, how many times have you watched the leading lady in the same situation and thought of how badly you wanted to save this girl (or how unbelievably hot she is)? We all identify with her. Even the evil ones, we identify with them too. How many times have we wanted to chase down those who have scorned us and take them down? Horror is a heart-pounding and exhilarating venue for us because it’s a thrill ride to the extreme. We seek adventure and mystery, and the Scream Queen is going to certainly help out along our journey. There are many Scream Queens out there, from the big screen to the small screen. This edition of “Scream Queens” is dedicated to those women who have made an impact in horror and left a stream of blood behind them. Acting, modelling, and supporting the horror genre as a whole has been tremendously important to these ladies, myself included. We take great pride in being a part of horror and making you sit on the edge of your seat or making your jaw drop in disbelief. The bewitching imagery and attitude of horror infiltrates each individual you’ll learn more about in this compilation of Scream Queens. I hope you enjoy reading the interviews in “Scream Queens: The Final Chapter”. Rest assured that we have selected the best of the best. All of these ladies are immensely talented and driven... we will stop at nothing! Enjoy and Happy Screaming! Monica Rae Autumn
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Deedee Bigelow Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? No, I actually did not like watching horror movies at all! I was raised with dogs (my mother was a trainer) and I watched Cujo... it completely freaked me out! When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e. work in the industry)? Growing up I always loved movies, especially Sci-Fi and action flicks. I never thought I would be in this business until I moved to Las Vegas in 2005 and was cast as a guest star on a reality show. I knew immediately after filming this show, so I moved to Los Angeles. You’ve been an actress, producer, and a writer. Which do you find most rewarding? And why? All! My passion is for this business, and I just love it all! Besides acting, producing and writing, do you see yourself branching out into any other field behind the camera? I think those will keep me busy enough! LOL. Tell us a little bit about your movie The Deceit. You’re a writer and producer on the project. Is this the first project you’ve written? Yes, I co-wrote this with a brilliant writer named Tony “Tygr” Olivas. He taught me so much about the technique of writing a script. And now I’m writing a period piece short film. I’ve read that you’re trained in fencing and sword fighting. How valuable has this training become on a film set? I love any genre of films that lets me sword fight. I’ll actually be testing my skills in a new film called Legend of the Red Reaper shooting in July, 2011. I can’t wait, as I love this kind of action movie. What is Beast Mistress? When and where will it be available? Beast Mistress is my comic book, which is in 4
development. I’m not sure when I’ll actually have time to get back to it. I’ve been so busy with other projects it has gone to the back burner. What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? I would have to say All About Steve because it gave me the chance to work with the brilliant actress Sandra Bullock. Also, I met the horse trainer on set and we’ve been friends ever since. It was an incredible experience! What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you site which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less than stellar end product? I don’t have a least favourite. I’ve been in a couple films that have never been released. That can be a bit frustrating. Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominantly do other genres? I predominantly play the badass character in films. To date I’ve worked in all genres of films, though I do admit I love period pieces, and action and Sci-Fi. What do you think is the current state of horror, both mainstream and independent? I think studios will continue to hire directors
like Michael Bay and shoot remakes. Whether you agree or not, I believe this is what is happening right now.
I have a couple other projects in the works as well, but everyone will have to stay tuned for more info on these. They are top secret for now. What do you look for in choosing future roles? I must admit I like playing the badass... so I love to get those! But I just go for the roles that I think will challenge me as an actress and offer something I can bring to life. It’s all about the passion. How do you unwind after a long day on set? LOL... go to sleep so I can be rested for the next day.
If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? Ok, if I could choose any role in a movie already made, I would choose to be Princess Leia in all the Star Wars films. This is one of the most memorable characters in film history, and I just so happen to have the first film completely memorized! What exciting projects are in store for DeeDee Bigelow? Well, let’s see. I have a Sci-Fi film premiering in July of 2011 called Alien Armageddon (directed by Neil Johnson), where I fight aliens and get blown up! I shot a film created by Rena Riffel called Showgirl... It’s a sequel to the popular movie starring her and Glenn Plummer. This movie should be out sometime in 2012. I’m in the middle of filming a thriller called Spreading Darkness with iconic actors like Eric Roberts, James Duval, John Savage and Louis Mandylor (directed by Josh Eisenstadt). I’ll be filming Legend of the Red Reaper with the talented Tara Cardinal in July, 2011 - I can’t wait to sword fight with her!
Where can your fans go to learn more about you? I currently don’t have a fan page or site, but they can follow what’s happening on IMDB. www.imdb.me/deedeebigelow Also, you can find my book at www.Blurb.com - I would love to see everyone out there buy and own my first ever book. It’s called The Adventures of Maddy. And people can e-mail me anytime at: deedeebigelow@yahoo.com Anything else you’d like to add? I would like to say thank you to Trevor Wright and Morpheus Tales Magazine for this interview. It’s a true honour to be asked and I’m glad I could share some of my experiences with you and all the readers!
Most of these films have fan pages on Facebook - please look them up and “like” away. And (as if all this hasn’t kept me busy enough)... I’m writing a period short film that me and my producing partner, Robert Shannon, will shoot later this year, and I just published my first book! 5
Cyndi Crotts Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? Oh most definitely. I remember as a kid my very first horror-type film was Jaws. I watched it with my eyes closed when the shark was getting close to attacking someone. My dad would laugh at me for doing it and talked to me during and after the film to explain to me that it’s all fake and that it’s just a movie. He wanted to assure me that there was nothing to be afraid of and that horror movies are made to scare you. After a while I got used to them and he and I would go to the video store and rent lots of horror films. My mom wasn’t really a fan of horror much but she would sit and watch them with us. I really have to thank my dad for being the one who really helped me overcome the fear of horror films. Now I love them. As for my favourite horror films, well, that is kind of a hard decision but I’d have to go with The Exorcist, Halloween and Phantasm. Those are just classics now and they are still awesome films to watch. When Halloween comes around each year, I make sure I have my popcorn and these three films ready to go to start my horror movie night. When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e. work in the industry)? As a kid I had always cut up all the time with friends and family, trying to make people laugh and just pulling things on people. Mainly my parents and their friends would just laugh so hard at me and the things I would say and do. My parents use to always say, “Why are we working ourselves to death when we have a movie star in the making. We need to take her to Hollywood”…LOL Around the age of 11 or 12 was when the acting bug hit me. I remember I used to beg my parents to take me to audition somewhere for a film and find people I needed to get close to in order to get into the entertainment business. Finally I got the opportunity to take a modelling class and I learned all the basics from how to walk, talk, sit, runway walking, 6
how to have good posture, along with doing my own hair and makeup. It was actually one of the best classes I could have taken at such a young age. I learned so much from that class and it has helped me through the years. I even got to touch base a little in the acting scene as well when I was young, so that was really where the fun started to take off for me. You act, model, have done casting, wardrobe, and held other behind the scenes positions. With all of your expertise, which do you find the most rewarding? Honestly, I find all these positions very rewarding. You can learn so much from each one. I actually started out modelling and got pretty good at that but later learned that runway modelling would never come to be for me since my height would never reach the industry standard. So when I found that out, I decided to move onto the acting scene. I stayed in that for many years and in between growing up and becoming a teenager, I would take breaks and just be a kid and wanted to be with my friends. So I didn’t do a lot of acting again until I reached my early 20s. I then took a couple of acting classes to brush up on things and to get back into the game so to speak. From then on I stuck with acting and I have become more involved in other aspects
of the business as well. I took a chance one time in trying to work on the other side of the camera and wanted to learn about wardrobe on a film set. It’s always good to know more than one thing about films. You never know when you might get a chance to be on a film, so I tend to leave my options open. So I took the chance and asked around and I finally got my chance to work on a film as the wardrobe assistant. It was such a great experience and I learned a good bit from doing that. The plus side to being on the other side of the camera is it keeps you on set and you can learn from the other actors around you, so that’s a great reward for me to learn from others. Also when I go on sets now as the actor, I tend to pay more attention to detail and to how things are set up when filming takes place. So it’s for sure something to learn. Don’t get me wrong, my passion is acting, but it is a position that I will take on a film if I get the opportunity.
people that you cast for a film and how gracious they are that you chose them to be a part of it. I know from being an actress what that feeling is like and can appreciate having someone take that chance on you. I know a lot of people in the business and have worked with a good bit as well. So I have a pretty good eye as to who can play what roles and who is better at pulling each character off. Even though a lot of them are friends, I still have to make sure I don’t cast them in a role that I know they are not right for. Any other behind the scenes position you’d like to try? Writing? Directing? Producing? Now that you’ve mentioned it, I have taken that first step and have written my very first feature film called “Hells Little Angels”. I wrote it between January and February of 2011. I will produce and act in the film as well, but as of right now it’s still very brand new. I have gotten some interest with my script from others and gained a partner as well. So I’m hoping to start on my film some time in 2012. My newest position that I’ve taken on is that of director and host of a new web show called Florida Music Nation; here is the website for it: www.floridamusicnation.com. I’m really excited about the show and have already done a few interviews so far. I also started my own business,Traveling Brat Productions, LLC, which produces the web show. Here is the website for you to go to in order to check out the company: www.travelingbrat.com. The website is still brand new as is the company, but we are just getting started so keep on the look out for upcoming projects.
I’ve also tapped in on the casting side of films in the past couple of years and that has also been rewarding. It’s great to know you have the ability to see talent that others may not know about or may have not come across before. It’s a really great feeling to see the
You were in one of my favourite indie horror films of the past few years: Delivery. What can you tell us about your experiences on set? That was a film I was in a few years back when I was just starting up again in the entertainment business. It was actually the second film I had been cast in that Jose Cassella was the director on. I had a really great time with everyone and truly enjoyed working with Jose again. It was great to be on set and I learned so much from watching the other actors. The character that I play in this 7
film is a film producer. It was so long ago but I remember a few bits and pieces of the film. It’s really cool to find out that a film you’ve been in made it to the shelves of rental stores and retail stores. It’s also available through Netflix so for those who haven’t seen it yet, you need to check it out. What is Ginger-Stein: Rise Of The Undead? And when/where can we read it? I became involved when Jeff Hughes contacted me last fall of 2010. From there I was contacted by Dennis Willman to be involved in this comic book series. The comic book is created by Dennis Willman of Iron Dead Studios and published through Comic Book Divas, which is owned by Jeff Hughes. Dennis is also for the illustrator of each and every character in this comic. To give you the short and skinny: “Ginger-Stein is the story of an ordinary woman called upon to become extraordinary as the world falls victim to a zombie apocalypse.” My character in this series is Officer Kate Sully, who is a Detroit police officer. She's tortured, angry and deeply saddened by the fact that she was betrayed and lost her entire family. Sully is a predator, a cunning and intelligent creature that stands apart from her undead brethren. So far the comic has made just a few appearances at conventions starting around the late 2010, early 2011. There is an awesome list of actors attached to 8
this series as well. It will definitely be a comic that will catch the interest of b-horror movie fans. To find out more on this awesome comic and where to keep a look out for it, check out http://comicbookdiv as.com/gingerstein. Any other comic book related projects in the works? I’m not in any other comic books as of yet but it’s possible that I might be writing my own comic book. I had the idea pop in my head and thought I might give it a shot. Since I am a model for Comic Book Divas, I already get the opportunity to show my comic skills so to speak. So I’m hoping to get a comic book started sometime in 2012 and it would go through Comic Book Divas. It’s still in the very early stages right now so we will see. What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? That is really a hard question to answer. I’ve actually enjoyed being involved in all the films that I’ve been a part of. Each one had its own great moments. Plus, I’ve gotten to learn so much from each set, cast and crew. I couldn’t pick just one film to say it was my favourite without being unfair to the others. What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you site which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less than stellar end product? Well I’m sure we all have had our least favourite film or films that we’ve been on, but most just like
me don’t really do name calling so to speak. In this business, there are many ups and downs and pitfalls. Each film has its own special thing and sometimes it may not be for you, but we are all learning in this business and that’s the one good thing about it. What you may not have liked then may turn out later on to be something you come to like. I do know one thing that is a bit of a sore spot with most people in this business is being told that we will receive copies of the films we have worked on. There are still some of us out there that haven’t received anything. Filmmakers have to understand: in order for others to see our work we have to receive something from these films that we have all worked on. In return, we can show people our acting skills via the different characters we’ve played. That’s part of our resume so to speak and without it, companies tend to shy away from some of us because we are unable to produce this for them and in return, we get pushed to the side. Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? I do see myself continuing to work in horror films. There are so many more roles that I still want to take part in and have a chance at on the horror side. Don’t get me wrong, I would also like to have a chance at other types of films such as sci-fi, comedy, dramas, action, etc. Each genre brings a different character to the scene and I think that you need to experience them all. Plus, it helps to widen your range as an
actress as well. You find your strong points and your weak points and you get a chance to work on those. I think it would be great fun to be in an action film or even a comedy. Everyone loves an adrenaline rush just as much as they love to laugh at things. What do you think is the current state of horror, both mainstream and independent? I’m sure you get this a lot but I tend to feel that independent films are bringing more to the table than Hollywood mainstream films. It’s like Hollywood is getting lazy and forgot how to be original. Some of the Hollywood remakes should have never been touched. For example: Friday the 13th, Nightmare on Elm Street and even Halloween. All of the originals had great casts and great stories and they all brought a villain to life that we all still love to this day. Now you’ve brought in these remakes and they are nothing like the original films so they lost the fans. The only film so far that I’ve seen that I thought they did a really good job at remaking was I Spit On Your Grave. I saw the original and when I saw the remake I kind of took it as, well, maybe that one needed a fresh start. Independent films seem to be capturing the fans and trying to be fresh and bring things to the table in terms of what people haven’t yet seen. They create new villains that the fans can come to love. It’s very hard to please everyone, but if nothing else, try to always be original. We’re practically done with the torture porn 9
craze. We’re hopefully getting away from remakes. Any predictions on the next big thing in horror? Well I feel that grindhouse, psychological thrillers and Hitchcock-style films are on the rise. Almost everyone that likes horror films also tend to like psychological thrillers as well as grindhouse. Psychological thrillers are fun and take you on a journey, and along the way bad things tend to happen. Then you bring a Hitchcock style in, where you use the camera as the viewers’ eyes. Mix that all together and you’ve got yourself a voyeuristic psychological playground... LOL. If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? There are so many films out there that I would have enjoyed being in, but I don’t think I could pick just one. I have enjoyed the roles of many women but there are just a few that really have caught my eye and rewarded my viewing. The first female I enjoyed watching in a horror film was Jamie Lee Curtis in Halloween. That was one of the films I really enjoyed, and it would have been such a great opportunity to have gotten that role in a film that has become so popular for multiple generations. Then there are the grindhouse films which I really enjoy very much. Lots of action along with a little horror, so it’s two great roles in one. Take for instance, Planet Terror. That had some really great action in it. I liked the role of Cherry Darling played by Rose McGowen. That would have been a great character to have played as well. Other films are Pulp Fiction, in which Uma Thurman has a classic role. I loved her character and the film itself was completely excellent. Lastly I’ll have to go with Michelle Rogriquez. I love just about all the roles she’s been cast in. She gets to play the tough girl and the bad girl in 10
everything she does. My favorite films that she has been cast in and those that I would have enjoyed being in are Fast & Furious, Machete and S.W.A.T. All three of those films had great roles and each one brought something a little different to the table, but still they got to show her tough girl side, which is a role I’d really like the pleasure of playing. What exciting projects are in store for Cyndi Crotts? I actually have two new web shows that I will host and direct, and my company will be producing them both. Florida Music Nation is one of the web shows as I mentioned earlier. It’s been a real treat to meet the people in the music industry and tap in on that side of things. Plus I enjoy talking with people, so it’s a great experience. The second web show is going to be a travel show. It’s still in the works but we should be getting that started later this year. We plan to go to places that people tend to forget about or don’t really pay attention to, like the mom and pop places, the little guy so to speak. Since most things tend to get taken over by the big guys, these other little places fall off the map. So we want to give them some much needed exposure. As far as films go, I have a few in the works but nothing has been confirmed as of right now so I’m still on hold. However, as I mentioned earlier, I have written my very first feature film, Hells Little Angels, so hopefully sometime in 2012 I can get started on that one. I’m really excited and can’t wait. My other project that I have going on is my 2012 Pin-Up Scream Queen calendar that I’m in the process of making right now. I have an awesome team that is working with me on
this and we are all really excited about it. I have also been chosen to be on a magazine cover, but at this time I am not able to give out the name of the magazine as it is still early. I can give you a hint: the magazine issue will be coming out this year in September. I will be posting about it on my official website as well as my Facebook page.
I like roles that challenge me as an actress. I guess you might say I’m more attracted to roles that are nothing like me. I like to play the girl that’s in charge and has a tough side to her and that would kick your butt if given the chance to. I also like to play the crazy off kilter chick. I think I’d even like to play a killer in a film just because I feel strongly that I could really pull that type of character out in a role. These types of characters are so different from each other and you can take them to so many levels in a film. How do you unwind after a long day on set? When I first get in the door, my dogs are always so glad to see me so I spend a little time with them. Then I like to get on the computer and check out any e-mails that I may have missed throughout the day. I usually get online, see what my friends have been up to and chat with them for a little bit. Then after that I head into the living room and watch some TV shows or maybe even a movie. It’s a great way to unwind and to get into another mindset before heading off to bed. Where can your fans go to learn more about you? I have many sites that my fans can go to and find out about me and my new projects.
This magazine does a lot of interviews with horror authors and publishes a lot of horror fiction. Do you have a favourite horror author and/or book? I really have never been much of a bookworm. I’m more of a travel buff so I like reading about different places and things and to see and learning about what’s new out there. The only other things that I really enjoy reading are the film scripts that I receive from films I’m cast in. It’s always exciting to get a script and to be able to imagine how your character is going to be in that film and the scene around you. For me, that is the best kind of reading: when you actually get to become a character and act it out.
Official Cyndi Crotts website: http://www.cyndicrotts.com Cyndiland: http://cyndicrotts.blogspot.com My IMDB Page: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1962680 Twitter: http://twitter.com/Cyndi_Crotts Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/people/CyndiCrotts/561415203 Comic Book Diva Model Cyndi Crotts: http://www.comicbookdivas.com/cbdmodels/cyndi-crotts Anything else you’d like to add? Thank you, Trevor, for giving me this opportunity and for interviewing me. I would also like to thank my fans and supporters for everything they do and for believing in me.
What do you look for in choosing future roles? 11
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Seregon O’Dassey Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? Nightmare on Elm Street, IT. Anything psychological is going to scare me a lot more than a typical slasher film. When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e. work in the industry)? When I was about fourteen and I started roleplaying. It was exciting to always be a different character that I created by myself. Besides acting is there any other job on a movie set that you would like to try? Writing? Directing? Producing? I’ve actually been writing and I’ve recently started producing as well. I did some producing on Richard Chandler’s Scrooge in the Hood which filmed near Boston. It’s definitely a different experience, but I really enjoy it. You did stunt work for the movie Cleric. Are you a trained stuntwoman? What interests you about stunt work? I’m not trained in the sense that I didn’t go to a school for stunt work. However, I do have a lot of physical training. I’ve been through USMC basic training and I’ve gone through several years of martial arts and kickboxing. I’m also trained in swords and firearms. What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? I really enjoyed shooting Cleric because it was a very physical role that I had to get in shape to do. I got to do my own stunts for the first time ever and it gave me a chance to prove myself on a physical level in addition to just acting. What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you site which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less than stellar end product? There is nothing in particular that was a bad experience. There was a rough patch where I was going through a lot of transitions in my life, some personal problems, and I feel that it took a toll on my work, but no specific
negative movie. There’s also a film where the producer tried to sleep with me, but I’m not going to mention that one. Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? I already do other genres. I’ve done commercials, Shakespearean theatre, horror, comedy and soap operas. I’ve been in both horror and mainstream for years, it’s just that each genre doesn’t know I do other genres. What do you think is the current state of horror both mainstream and independent? I’m not happy with it. It seems everything is either being remade or rewritten in such a way it’s being called original when it really is not. There’s almost no originality anymore. It’s disappointing. We’re practically done with the torture porn craze. We’re hopefully getting away from remakes. Any predictions on the next big thing in horror? I’m happy we’re getting away from both of those. Torture porn is degrading to everyone involved and remakes are a cop out. I’m 13
hoping we get more into the psychological aspect of horror. To me true horror is something you can’t get away from until you get over your own phobias. If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? Hmmm, maybe Anne Boleyn. She was more than just a mistress. Any character from one of the X-Men or Resident Evil movies. I love physical roles. And I would kill to be in any future Boondock Saints flicks! What exciting projects are in store for Seregon O’Dassey? This summer I’ll be working on The Devil’s Nightmare by Dave Zagorski and my webseries Rub it In and I just signed on to be in Disciples and Mountain of the Flesh Eaters both by Joe Hollow. I’m in pre-production on Gilgamesh by Richard Chandler of Boston Film Family. We’re currently seeking additional investors for that project (if interested please contact me). I just wrapped Scrooge in the Hood (Richard Chandler), Knuckleheads (David Kargas), Cut (Joe Hollow) and I’m currently filming Goth Child 2 (Archguardian Films) so I’ll be promoting all of those. Also I literally just signed the contract to be in Girl Scout Cookies by Mark Cray. I shoot at the end of June. This magazine does a lot of interviews with horror authors and publishes a lot of horror fiction. Do you have a favourite horror author and/or book? I love the way Anne Rice writes. She’s a very 14
descriptive writer. I also like Stephen King. He makes every word come to life. What do you look for in choosing future roles? It varies. I like to read a script to figure out how my character fits into the grand scheme of things. Everyone wants the lead, but it may be the character with five or so lines that’s oh so significant in their own little way. I do want a character with substance and at least some depth instead of just “filler” roles. Of course, if I don’t have the time to commit to a lead character I am just as happy to take a smaller part. There are no small roles; only small actors. How do you unwind after a long day on set? I like to hit the gym and work off the day. After that a nice hot shower, some red wine and maybe a nice cigar if I have one Where can your fans go to learn more about you? My website www.seregonodassey.com or my Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/SeregonODassey/55049623801 Anything else you’d like to add? I just want to say thank you to all of my fans; You’re the reason I’m here! Please take a look at my Facebook fan page for updates and also the page for Boston Film Family, as I do work with them quite often.
Kelsey Zukowski Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favorites? When I was younger I was terrified by things very easily, even outside of horror movies. The first horror movie I saw was Psycho, now one of my favorite films of any genre, but at the time it horrified me beyond belief. The shower scene scarred me for quite some time…and now I have a psycho shower curtain; oh, how my perspective has changed. Halloween was my “gateway” film, I guess you could say. My friends and I really got into the series when I was around thirteen. It was really the first time I saw the fun aspect in horror. We watched the films over and over, did re-enactments, and I even committed so much to playing the victim running from Michael Myers once I accidentally dislocated my kneecap. My friends just thought I was really getting into the part. When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e. work in the industry)? I got in to theater around the age of 10 when I had my first aspirations of being an actress. Over the years I transitioned more into writing, which has been my focus since I was 14, both as a film critic and screenwriter. It wasn’t until I was approached by true-crime filmmaker, Kevin Jamison, about being in one of his films, that I thought about trying to get back into acting. It’s been about a year since I’ve been actively seeking out film roles and I’m pretty amazed with how far I have come since then. You act, write and direct. Do you consider yourself to be an actress first or a writer? Which do you find to be most rewarding? Writing is my focus; while I enjoy many aspects of filmmaking, it’s what I have the most drive and love for. I do look forward to directing Ritual of the Dead, in the Trick or Eat Series, with co-writer and director, Jonathan Moody. It will be a chance to view things from the outside a little more and bring things together. I really love acting as well; it’s a different
way of bringing an aspect of the story to life. Acting makes you step outside of yourself to live through a character in that moment, while at the same time making you resurface and relive things that bring you similar emotions. It makes you relate to situations that may be very different from those that you have gone through, bringing a sense of relevance to everything. One thing I really love about writing is it’s all in yours hands (at least with the initial script). It gives you a power you don’t even have over your own life; the power to create what happens and how things end; the final say is yours. You can bring attention and develop a commentary on injustices and human hardships, or you can expose the ugliness in the world and bring a justice to it that rarely occurs as it should in reality. It allows you to have a creative conversation through intriguing stories and characters and bring a voice to whatever you desire. Any other job on a movie set that you’d like to try? Producing, perhaps? Producing is really the least desirable job involved with filmmaking for me. It’s so 15
much planning, organizing, calling in favors, oh, and asking people for money, which is not something I enjoy doing. Especially since most people who would love to help films get made, either have their own films they’re trying to get funded or just don’t have the money. This is low-budget indie after all. Beyond that, I really like the creative aspects of filmmaking, which I feel producing is lacking. Writing and acting are my main focuses for now, and I will see how I like directing; that could possibly be a side of filmmaking to explore more. What is Scream Queen Campfire? And what is your involvement in the project? Scream Queen Campfire is a horror anthology series. It begins with a number of Scream Queens sitting around a campfire, telling spooky stories. Each story they tell is a chapter in the anthology. It deals with all different types of horror, which I really like about it: vampires, vengeful victims, reanimated creatures; all brands of monsters in unique, enthralling tales. I wrote a number of the segments with creator Jonathan Moody, and will be starring in one entitled, “Wrong Number,” where I accidentally text a serial killer my address who then hunts me down, escalating to a fight for survival. Big things are on the way for the anthology, so look out for it. What’s your favorite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? Probably the film I’m most excited for is What They Say, which recently wrapped filming. I wrote the script based off of Heather Dorff’s short story and also star alongside Dorff in the film as her sister, one of the many times we play sisters. The film is a short dark drama, centered around a very 16
privileged and self-indulgent society and one girl who is alienated so heavily by those around her as she struggles with a fight with darkness that none of her family even bat an eye at. The genre, tone, and structure were something different for me, but I worked very close with Heather to bring her original vision to life while still making it more cinematic. The end result is a tragic, stylistic, and surreal short with an unbelievable amount of talent backing it. What’s your least favorite? And what problems can you site which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less than stellar end product? I take every film as a learning experience. Regardless, I don’t think I would have a least favorite. Every shoot I’ve been on has had its share of ups and downs. That’s expected with every film. I love what I do; I always at least have fun either with the material or just the people I am able to work with. Organization and being prepared are two things I really appreciate from a director coming into a shoot, since anything can go wrong and chances are something will. It just helps things go so much more smoothly and allows everyone to do what they came there to do, make the film. Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? Horror is what I’m passionate about. I love films of all genres, and especially as an actress I have been slowly pushing my comfort zone to grow as an actor. Recently, I have done dark dramas, a comedy web series, and will be in a dramatic thriller coming up, “Poetic.” That one will be one of my most emotionally-demanding roles to date. I am
open to exploring new things, but horror is where my love and creativity is most embedded. What do you think is the current state of horror both mainstream and independent? Independently, horror is doing amazing things. Mainstream, it’s kind of an insult. I get defensive when people talk down on horror, but when I really think about it from the films they are most likely being exposed to, Hollywood remakes and watered down, recycled PG13 horror films, I can’t really blame them. I just hate that to the average person that is what defines horror. You have to have a great love for it to really seek out all of the indie and foreign gems out there. On the flip side, that has made indie that much better. To pursue indie horror, you have to really love the genre and have something to say, something that not only fuels you, but your film. We’re practically done with the torture porn craze. We’re hopefully getting away from
remakes. Any predictions on the next big thing in horror? I think some of the riveting foreign horror we have seen in the past few years will set future trends worldwide, especially from the French; damn, they know how to do horror right. Films like Frontier(s), Martyrs, and Inside serve as perfect examples. They are intense, inventive, and brutal as hell, yet all of this centers around the meaning and purpose behind the film. I think others will follow this trend of utilizing all of the gore and discomfort to mirror and bring attention to real life circumstance s, even if exaggerated or shown in a different light. Horror for a reason. How horror should be. If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? Not that I would ever want to touch this classic or the performance as is, but Nancy from Nightmare on Elm Street has always been one of my favorite female horror characters. It’s my favorite film, Freddy my favorite villain, and Craven my favorite 17
director. It would have been amazing to work opposite Robert Englund and directed by Wes, considering material so groundbreaking, that cut off any and all safety nets. Despite that, it would have been enthralling to get in to the mind of Nancy, the sheer terror, the determined need for survival, and the plight and strength inside her, making her the first one to stand up to this undead, murderous killer, a complete monster, long ago losing any shred of man that was once inside of him. What exciting projects are in store for Kelsey Zukowski? You nailed a lot of my upcoming projects. In addition to What They Say, I wrapped Headline News and Inhumane. Headline News is a thriller that questions how far one would go for scientific secrets that could change how we think about life and death. Along with What They Say, it will be premiering at The Chicago Horror Film Festival in September. Inhumane was another where I played a very battered victim. The film is directed by Kevin Jamison and stars Marv Blauvelt, Heather Dorff, and myself. Heather and I both played call girls who were kidnapped and tortured by a 37-year-old social outcast, Corbin Hobbs (Blauvelt). James Bett Jr. did an amazing job
on the special FX. Even the set pictures are incredibly disturbing, not to mention the fierceness of all of the performances. Trust me, it’s impossible for this film not to be intense and gritty as hell. Another one I’m looking forward to will be filming this fall, Slasher, the first part of The Dark Worlds anthology series by Darkrider Studios. It’s a witty and inventive film, mocking horror clichés and norms, while being a smart and funny account of this. There are a number of other films in the early stages that I have in store for the near future, both as a writer and actress; I will keep everyone posted on things as they progress. This magazine does a lot of interviews with horror authors and publishes a lot of horror fiction. Do you have a favorite horror author and/or book? I’m a sucker for vampire fiction, pun intended. I’m a huge fan of Charlaine Harris’ Southern Vampire Mysteries series. Eric Northman trumps any and all vampires, pretty much embodying anything and everything they should be: bloodthirsty, charming, and powerful, embracing their evil, alluring nature.
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What do you look for in choosing future roles? I look for something that interests me or I can see potential in. That can be the character, story, or premise. I’m very big on themes. If there are strong themes creatively communicated in a film, that sells me pretty quickly. Believing in the project is a must. There are certain roles I enjoy more than others; admittedly it’s the evil roles that I have the most fun with, but I am constantly looking to do different things, chances to challenge myself and let myself grow as an actor. How do you unwind after a long day on set? On an average shoot, washing the blood off and getting some much needed sleep since shoots tend to go late in to the night in most cases...and there is almost always blood, and lots of it. If not, I usually like to just relax, possibly watch a movie, and spend time with friends. Where can your fans go to learn more about you? Richelle Mead is another favorite of mine. She created The Vampire Academy series and her succubus-centered, Georgia Kincaid series. You’re instantly consumed in the world that she creates, so unique from any other vampire myths or worlds created. She also writes intensely strong female characters, which I can definitely respect. There’s desire, allure, and forbidden love as in most supernatural books, which is a very fundamental component, especially for vampires, but it’s secondary. In Vampire Academy, they combat with supernatural forces at a second’s notice; our protagonist is a warrior first. There are jail breaks, renegades running from a death sentence, vampire kidnappings and attacks, conspiracies, political upheaval, and a bond shadowed by death. In the world created, if our heroine wasn’t a fierce, strong individual, the series wouldn’t last nearly as long.
IMDB, Facebook, and Tumblr are a few of the best sources. I keep my Tumblr pretty focused on film and writing, whether it’s reviews I have written and re-posted or behind-the-scenes set photos and updates on future projects. It’s a good source to keep up with what I’m involved in. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3857479/ www.facebook.com/kelsey.zukowski http://kelseyzukowski.tumblr.com/ Anything else you’d like to add? Thanks so much for including me in this! I always love talking horror, film, and my passions with like-minded people. Thanks to all the fans and readers out there too, you’re what keeps horror alive!
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Monica Rae Autumn Interview You’ve been busy since we last spoke. Tell us about your upcoming modelling gigs, more specifically hosting the kick-off party for the Chicago Horror Film Festival. How did you get involved and what do your hosting duties entail? Yes, I certainly have been keeping busy! You know my motto: I thrive on chaos! The kick-off party for the Chicago Horror Film Festival will be on Thursday, Sept. 22 at Nitecap in Chicago. I got in contact with Willy (CEO of Spook Show Entertainment), whom I met at a previous CHFF a few years ago. He’s also founder of Illinois Ghost Hunters and was in charge of a Paranormal Investigation at the Portage Theatre so I have been talking to him about coming on board this year and hosting the music parties. I’ve known him since 2007 back when I started modelling, as he is a fashion photographer as well so it will be fun to work with some great people. I’ll also be hosting the closing ceremony after-hours
party on Sunday, Sept. 25 at Livewire Lounge. You will probably run into me as I’m introducing the bands on stage or running amuck. Some bands scheduled to play include Skinwalker, Dies Mali, Art of the Flesh, and Sinister Fate. You’re also the spokes-model for Spook Show Entertainment. Tell us about when and where we can see you. 20
I’ll be at the Chicago Horror Film Festival the entire weekend representing Spook Show Entertainment. The table will be all setup including the 1st issue release of Dark Arts magazine, which will have me as the cover model! So I’ll be there signing it to whoever would like an autographed copy. Also, I’ll be able to assist anyone with any questions about the company and such. Last time we talked a bit about you making the jump from modelling into movies. Looks like that may be coming to fruition. Care to elaborate on your upcoming short film? There are actually a few short films that I’ve been talking about being involved in, but it’s on the backburner at the moment. I will definitely let you guys know whenever any acting roles are confirmed! Tell us about this new iPhone app you have coming out. Is it true that you’re the featured model for the project? Yes, I’m the brunette model! I was approached for this project and totally jumped at the chance. I think it’s something different than what I’ve done so far and I’m always looking to expand on any modelling opportunities. Basically, it’s an iPhone app targeted for teens. You have to download the app, then you can take a photo on your phone and import the model in the pic. For example, you would take a picture of your living room and then import the model to make it look like she’s in your house. Then you can send it to your friends or post it online, etc. There were four other models involved, including a
Where can your fans go to learn more about you? On my Facebook page! Definitely go on there and check me out, stop by, say hi. https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Monica-RaeAutumn/161737967174429 Anything else you’d like to add? It’s been a pleasure to work with everyone involved in Scream Queens, particularly Trevor Wright! I’d also like to add a little something I have been saying ever since I was 12 years old: “Follow your dreams and never give up!”
blonde and redhead. This app should be available to download by the end of this year. What other exciting projects are in store for Monica Rae Autumn? I just wrapped several shoots and will also be shooting with Rich Markese again for the MBCHIX (Maximum Boxing Chix) calendar. We also work as models for boxing tournament events in the Chicagoland area. You can find more information on www.mbchix.com. A few music videos are in the works, too. I also had the opportunity to be a guest on the Tom and Lisa Morning Show on 95.1 FM WIIL Rock within the past month. It’s a rock/metal station that airs in Wisconsin and Chicago, I’ve always been a huge fan so that was an honour to be asked to join them on air. I’d love to do more radio segments. 21
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Kachina Dechert Interview When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e. work in the industry)? I’ve always loved acting and playing along to films, extending and making up my own scenes, singing etc., but I never thought of actually doing it as my career. Not that I didn’t think I could do it, it just never crossed my mind. I moved to America for carpentry / construction at the time; it was winter and I had just broken my ankle going off a jump snowboarding and was out of work, so was browsing around online one day, came across an introductory acting class, and thought how cool! So I went down on my crutches, auditioned for the class, got in and started going twice a week. Then from there I took more classes in NYC, started doing little short films and commercials, and that’s how it all started. Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? My dad would sit my sister and I down and make us watch scary movies with him all the time, so of course we would. My mum would get pissed because we’d both have nightmares for days because of it, lo but I loved watching them! The two I remember being scared shitless of most were Pumpkin Head and Steven King’s The Langoliers. The guy ripping the paper over and over again... ahhh it still makes me cringe! Besides acting is there any other job on a movie set you’d like to try? Writing? Directing? Producing? Yes! I would love to touch on all three: writing, directing and producing. I have loads of great and interesting ideas for films and would love the opportunity for people to see what I can come up with. I’d also like to do a little bit of set design, constructing, maybe doing the landscaping.
top shape. Fast metabolisms. I really don’t have a specific workout though. I can’t stand going to the gym, probably because I’m too lazy to motivate myself to actually go. Haha... it’s smelly, crowded, and it feels so fake to me, I think I stay fit by just being outside running around. I do loads of sporty things like four-wheeling, motorcycling, horseback riding, snowboarding, snowmobiling, polo, etc., so in doing those things I guess I keep myself in shape. Also the carpentry / construction / landscaping helps a lot. But now that I’m getting a lot busier with acting and modelling work, I’m going to have to come up with something to stay in shape. LOL, damn. Something I always tell people as well is to go dig a hole! It’s the Best workout you can get! It works all sorts of muscles in your legs, arms, back, stomach; every inch of your body gets a fab workout and you’re outside to boot.
You appear to be in top physical condition. What does a Kachina workout consist of? That’s definitely a question I get asked a lot. I always say first and foremost that I have my mum and family to thank for that - they’re in
How did you start in modelling and did this lead to acting? Modelling came after acting; they definitely both go hand in hand. I needed to get head shots taken for acting submissions and the 23
photographer said, “Why aren’t you modelling?!” I think I laughed a little and said, “I don’t know, I guess I never thought about it.” He then proceeded to tell me about some sites where local models, photographers, makeup artists and hairstylists go to put their work up, one of them being ModelMayhem.com. So I signed up, put some photos on, got lots of e-mails with proposals and ideas, and of course being careful with the ones I chose to do I started shooting. Then after I had enough photos that I loved and was proud of, I started looking for representation and now I’m represented by my modelling agent, Maggie Inc, and have gotten lots of work from them.
month or longer. You really get a chance to connect with who you’re portraying and make it reality, which is one of the many great things about acting. We’ve worked together on The Green Monster. Was this your first role? What was the experience like for you? Yes, The Green Monster was my very first role. It was a ton of fun! I remember auditioning for the part. I think I went to read for the role twice. It was so thrilling and exciting and I was nervous, but the whole time I knew I had the part - I could feel it. It was a great production, everyone was very professional, we were all learning and I think have all come so far since then. What is Blood Sin? When and where can we see it? Bloody Sin is a Boston University short film I just completed. It is a thriller about a girl vampire who doesn't want to kill to feed anymore. She has only one friend who she can trust. He brings her blood, but when people at his job start noticing missing blood bags, he is then forced to stop, leaving her starving and uncontrollable. It is being entered into festivals and I will also be putting a clip of it up on my website, so you can also check it out there.
Modelling or acting – which do you find more rewarding on a personal level? I love both for different reasons. With each shoot and film location you’re exposed to a different theme and setting. So you’re constantly exploring new areas and coming up with new ideas. With modelling you can see the finished product straight away, and with acting waiting through post-production can be agonizing, but so rewarding when the final cut is completed. Acting for me is definitely more personal because with modelling you are on a set for a day or two, whereas with acting you can be on set for a 24
What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? I have lots of favourites, but I would have to say being Salma Hayek’s stunt double in Here Comes The Boom, which just wrapped was definitely up there! That was a total blast, being thrown over things, breaking stuff ;) I did a short film did for Emerson college about a vampire (me) who tries to stop killing to keep herself alive, called Bloody Sin, for which I won an award of excellence in the Student category: http://thelamovieawards.com/2011_%28II%2 9_Winners_.html What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you site which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or
less than stellar end product? I won’t mention any names, but there was a film that had such a great script that I was very excited about doing, but unfortunately the lack of organization among other things took a toll, which in the end made the film less than what it had the potential to be. But there are positive and negative things that come from all projects you immerse yourself in; you just have to try and make the best of everything you are apart of, fully commit and give it all you got. Rock n roll baby!
What exciting projects are in store for Kachina Dechert? I have just wrapped on two films in which I play the lead. Both should be out by Christmas. I also just wrapped doing Salma Hayek’s stunt doubling. I’m now on the Adam Sandler film and going to lots of auditions. I have some booked print work coming up and a couple of films lined up to start pre-production within the next month. I’m always on the lookout for new projects to be apart of :)
Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? Since The Green Monster I’ve done many different genres including sci-fi, thriller, romantic, comedy, action and of course more horror. I’m always looking to broaden my horizons but when another opportunity comes along to work on another horror film, I will gladly accept.
This magazine does a lot of interviews with horror authors and publishes a lot of horror fiction. Do you have a favourite horror author and/or book? Well, I’d love to say I read a ton but I don’t. Do picture books count? Haha only kidding. I really envy readers! For some reason I just get bored and restless while reading, so I end up going to the kitchen, making a cup of tea, forgetting all about the book and moving on to something else. The only book that has ever gotten my full attention was The Diary of Anne Frank. I was so engrossed by it I literally had to sit there and read the whole thing! So, anyways, I guess for my favourite horror author it would have to date back to late public school when each month was a different “Goosebumps” book by R.L. Stein for my book reports in English class... And even then, my sister usually ended up doing them for me.
We’re practically done with the torture porn craze. We’re hopefully getting away from remakes. Any predictions on the next big thing in horror? What? Done with the torture porn craze?! LOL, nooooo! You know what, I haven’t the slightest clue but whatever it is keep ‘em coming! If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? I would love to be in any of Alfred Hitchcock’s films! I love his style and filming technique. Maybe my own take on Grace Kelly. Oh and Lolita! Acting alongside James Mason would be a dream. Ooooo, Thelma & Louise! That’s one of my all time faves. Ooooo and... wait you said one, right? Ha!
What do you look for in choosing future roles? I look for any role which I feel is strong in personality, and for characters that can really push me and take me out of my comfort zone, roles that I can study hard at, learning all the different types of mannerisms and 25
characteristics of a certain person. For example, I could be a ditsy pretty girl who keeps breaking up with her football boyfriend because he’s sleeping with the rest of the cheerleading team one day, and a kick-ass biker chick getting into brawls at the local chop shop the next. Exploring a wide variety of different parts you gives you an idea of what kind of path you want to travel, character and role wise, and lets you know which roles you’re stronger in and come more naturally to you versus the ones that you maybe need to work on a little bit. It’s always a good idea to take on a character you would never see yourself portraying and maybe one you never would want to play; because you never know; you could end up really liking it and will probably learn more than you would expect from it.
How do you unwind after a long day on set? A hot cup of tea! (PG Tips) or a beer, whichever is on hand. Depending on the role, if it’s a psycho character or an action scene I’d be full of energy and up for dancing the night away to get it off of my chest and out of my mind, but if its more of a romantic scene, then I’d probably jump in my car and drive 26
straight home. Where can your fans go to learn more about you? You can go to my website: www.KachinaDechert.com You can also find me on IMDB and Facebook under Kachina Dechert... You could even go to Twitter and catch me there if you’re lucky. I’m crap at using it, mostly because I don’t understand the point of it. If anyone wants to chime in, fell free to drop me a line, I’m definitely open to your input on the whole Tweet thang: kachinad@gmail.com
Nicole Kruex Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? Yes!! To a degree. I loved watching them but was scared to death of them at the same time. The ones I most remember are Pet Sematary, The Shining, Cat’s Eye, Gremlins, Halloween 4, and Nightmare on Elm Street. My mother was a huge Stephen King fan so I saw quite a few of his movie adaptations. When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e., work in the industry)? I’ve always been a “centre of attention” extrovert type. I wrote and directed my own basement plays when I was little. As I grew up I did quite a bit of stage work, dance, and that eventually led into modelling commercials and film jobs! It seems you’ve held every position on a movie set that there is to hold. With all of your expertise, which do you find to be the most rewarding? I love producing and acting the most. It’s amazing to be a part of all the chaos of putting together a project. I equally love being able to sit back and breathe in a character... when I have to do both though? One of the two suffers and it definitely upsets me. Do you consider yourself to be an actress first above any of your other job titles or would you like to be remembered as something other? Yes, I produce mainly because we have to eat and acting in Minnesota isn’t exactly a lucrative career. Acting is what I want to be remembered for and producer is something I want to be able to do well. How did your two companies, Triwar Films and Deadtime Productions come about? How many films have been released under their banners? TRIWAR Pictures is really the only serious entity of the two. Deadtime was at one point going to be the horror side of the company but after joining with Chasing Autumn Films?
Deadtime became no more. We’ve released (or are releasing) four projects over the last year. I first heard you on a weekly horror podcast show a couple of years ago. The guy who did most of the interviewing was less than stellar, but you were amazing! Very personable and outgoing. Are you still podcasting? On occasion, yes! I try to make it on Insanity After Dark when I can and every so often swing through podcasts I’m asked to join. It’s a blast to do! What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? Right now that would be Next Door and Discursion. Next Door was a blast to shoot, the cast/crew was incredible, and I was flown to NH! Discursion equals that because it’s a completely different film and the first full feature we’ve produced. It was a labor of love to some degree. What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you cite which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less-than-stellar end product? Well... I’ve loved all the sets I’ve been on!! 27
Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? I love horror, but I also love action!! Most people are unaware that I’m an avid martial arts fan!! I love Hong Kong Kung Fu movies. I’d love to do a Death Race or a Mad Max style film. Me with guns and action equals winning!! What do you think is the current state of horror both mainstream and independent? Saturated. To some degree I wish digital recording had never been invented because it’s created both a positive and negative flux of material. It’s helped many amazing filmmakers get seen... but it’s also become the catalyst to many films that should never be made. Though I support anyone that wants to breathe life into an idea? There are some that should remain hobbyists and they tend to hurt the serious market by upsetting investors and distribution processes. We’re practically done with the torture porn craze. We’re hopefully getting away from remakes. Any predictions on the next big thing in horror? It’s going to be the low budget indie believe it or not? The economy has steered many 28
large studios into the low-budget bucket... they are looking for incredible returns like that of Saw, Blair Witch, or Paranormal Activity. I think we’ll start to see a trend of low-budget, slapped-together films with heavy marketing schemes. If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? A revision of Mad Max staring a female, and I would be Max!! =D What exciting projects are in store for Nicole Kruex? We are gearing up to shoot a piece for Jonathan Moody’s anthology called H1Nx which is a ten-minute piece staring Shane McCaffrey and myself as victims of a gonewrong experiment. Keep your eyes out for it! This magazine does a lot of interviews with horror authors and publishes a lot of horror fiction. Do you have a favourite horror author and/or book? Yeah, it’s called The Secret Life of Lazlo Count Dracula by Roderick Anscombe. It’s sort of a neat retelling of the classic Dracula story told by his son. I’ve read it dozens of times and hope to one day turn it into a movie!
What do you look for in choosing future roles? Something I can see myself playing honestly. I’m not the blonde-haired, large-breasted girl that falls in the woods. I can’t play stupid very well and don’t make a convincing college sorority girl.. I get offers for lots of things I have to turn down because I know I’m not right for the role. I like things that challenge me emotionally or that really push me to be something more. How do you unwind after a long day on set? Call of Duty with my amazing boy... I love it. Where can your fans go to learn more about you? Check me out at NicoleKruex.com (formerly nikkihomicidek.ws); the new site will be up shortly!! Anything else you’d like to add? Thank you so much for this opportunity!! To all the aspiring actresses out there? Always stand your ground, be the very best you can be, remain humble, and be good to your crew. To the people I’m honoured to have as friends and fans? I sincerely appreciate you and all you’ve done to support me! And last?! Check out Discursion by Director Mitchel A. Jones, coming this Fall 2011!!
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Erica Soto Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? Yes, growing up I would stay up past my bedtime and watch horror/scary movies, haha. My favourites were Chucky, Friday the 13th, Scream, and Freddy Krueger vs. Jason those types of movies. When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e., work in the industry)? Ever since I was a little girl I would sit in front of the TV for hours and hours imagining and pretending that I was whichever character was my favourite in each movie. I never actually imagined having the opportunity to act. When I was 15 years old my mother put me in a modelling and talent school. After graduating it, I have been modelling for many different clothing lines and promo companies. Then in the beginning of 2010 I was given the opportunity to act in an indie horror film where my acting career began. I have never felt at one with something so much in my life. I hope to continue and make a living off of acting, that way I will never have to work a day in my life doing what I love! Modelling or acting – which is more rewarding for you on a personal level? I have been modelling for years and years and absolutely love it, but when acting came into my life I just knew in that very moment this is exactly where I need to be. Besides acting are there any other jobs on a movie set that you’d like to try? Writing? Directing? Producing? Not as of right now. I am staying focused on pursuing acting first. What is Mother’s Blood? And when/where can we see it? “It is about a woman named Vivian who was involved in a horrible accident that destroys her beauty. She seeks to restore it by making a ‘deal’ with a mysterious gypsy who warns her that by gaining her beauty and losing her deformity, someone close to her must lose theirs. Much to her horror that ‘someone’ 30
happens to be her daughter. After years of locking her daughter away, much too ashamed for the world to see her, Vivian is once again visited by the mysterious gypsy who offers a grisly ‘solution’ to restore her daughter's beauty as well - a solution that includes murder, mutilation and cannibalism and causes Vivian's life to spiral horribly out of control. The cost of staying beautiful will be paid in the flesh and blood by those around her!” I play the character Tiffany Jones who is Vivian’s ex-husband’s girlfriend... you can imagine how this plays out. What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? This is a hard question because I have enjoyed all the films I have been in, each one for different reasons and experiences. What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you cite that led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less-than-stellar end product? I don’t feel comfortable answering this question. Let’s just say I am extremely thankful for all the acting opportunities I have taken, enjoyable or not. Each experience is
different and useful for future references.
(Official Fan Page)!” Thanks! What do you look for in choosing future roles? I look for a challenge and what character would be fun or twisted to play. How do you unwind after a long day on set? Depends on where I am and what is available to me in the area of filming; for instance, a Jacuzzi.
Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? Yes, I do see myself continuing to work in horror films as well as other genres. I love playing all different kinds of characters; it gives me a challenge to live in the life of someone else.
I hear you’re also a Beachbody coach. How did this come about? And how big of a role does fitness play, not just in your acting and modelling gigs, but in your everyday life? Honestly, I am constantly being blessed with so many opportunities which I am extremely grateful for. I believe one should take any opportunity that could be beneficial to one’s life. Becoming a Beachbody coach has been amazing in every way. Not only do I get to help motivate others in taking action to achieve their health and fitness goals, but I get to keep myself accountable in doing the same. Fitness plays a huge role in my life; having hypo-thyroid disease since I was 14, it is very important that I take good care of my health to try to avoid many health complications that come with this disease. Where can your fans go to learn more about you? They can “Like” my Facebook Page at “Erica Soto (Official Fan Page),” follow me on Twitter “@EricaSotoR,” check out my IMDb Page under “Erica Soto (II),” or even ask me questions on Formspring/EricaSotoR.
If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? Ahhh, this is definitely a hard one because there are way too many films I love and characters I would love to play. All I know is one day I will be playing in a movie with my favourite actress (Angelina Jolie) - she just doesn’t know it yet, ha-ha! What exciting projects are in store for Erica Soto? Definitely expect tons more to come. To get filled in on all my projects coming up please “Like” my Facebook fan page “Erica Soto
Anything else you would like to add? I would like to thank all my supporters thus far and promise this is only the beginning of Erica Soto! Best wishes! Muahhh...
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Kaylee Williams Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? I have to say that It and Pet Semetary scared the crap out of me as a child. After watching It, I couldn’t go anywhere near gutters for the longest time, haha. That clown was creepy as hell! And that kid in Pet Semetary has got to be the creepiest child I have ever seen, hands down. When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e. work in the industry)? Not until high school, actually. And it’s something that I never thought that I would be doing for a career. Growing up, I was extremely introverted and shy, so the thought of me being on stage or on camera was a thought that terrified me, rather than intrigued me. It wasn’t until some of my friends in high school dared me to try out for the school play that I discovered that I loved being on stage. I mean, at first my natural response to their suggestion was “Hell no!” but they kept poking and prodding me so I finally gave in. I remember being absolutely terrified while sitting in the audience waiting for my turn to go up on stage and audition. I was shaking like a little leaf and thought I was going to pass out. But once I finally got up on stage, it was the weirdest thing. I didn’t feel nervous at all anymore. I felt like I belonged there. It was a great feeling. After that, I auditioned for my first film, booked the lead role, and have been hooked on acting ever since. I have to say that being an actress has definitely brought me out of my shell. Besides acting do you see yourself branching out into any other field behind the camera? Not right now, but maybe sometime down the line. Right now, I’m just focusing on my acting career. And I honestly love being in front of the camera. But never say never. It might be fun to get to direct a film one of these days. We’ll see what happens! Tell us about some of your upcoming projects. I would love to ask you about one specifically, but there is just so much of your work coming 32
up in the near future from Girl Scout Cookies to Idiot Gore to Zombie Babies, etc. etc. I think it’s safe to say that we’ll be seeing a lot of you on our screens very soon. Yes, I’ve been blessed to be so busy! I love what I do. I can tell you that Slices of Life and Zombie Babies are currently available on DVD. You can purchase Zombie Babies at www.zombiebabiesfilm.com and you can purchase Slices of Life from Amazon.com or from the Family Video website. Coming up next, I have a very busy year ahead of me, which includes a whole bunch of very awesome films that I can’t wait to work on. I actually mention all of my upcoming films in question 13 so skip ahead to that question if you would like to see what’s in store for me! :D I’ve read that you’re trained in stunts and combat. How valuable has this training become on a film set? What drew you to become trained? Well when I was a child, I took martial arts classes for about six years and I loved it. Now that I’m older and have chosen being an actress as my career, I decided to try to get
involved again in either that or something similar, which is how I ended up taking stunt classes. I’m very interested in playing action roles and I’d love to get cast in some action films, so to learn how to safely do my own fights and stunts is very important knowledge to have when pursuing roles like that. I would love to play a character that gets to kick a lot of ass – like Buffy the Vampire Slayer – so it’s important for me to stay in shape and learn how to do the things required to take on a role like that.
don’t promote it very much, just because it was such a bad experience, but I will never trash talk it. Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? Right now, all of the projects I have lined up are horror or horror-related films. Which I don’t mind one bit! Horror is a very fun genre that I love working in, but I would definitely like to work in other genres as well at some point. I’d love to do some action films, or scifi, or fantasy. Heck, I’d even like to try out romantic comedy at some point. I just like doing different things and playing different characters. I know that you’re committed to certain charities. What kinds of charities are you involved with? How did you become involved? I love doing charity work and giving back to the community. It’s something I’m very passionate about. I donate my time and money to several different charities and organizations that are important to me.
What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? Oh, I can’t pick favourites! That’s like asking me to choose my favourite child, haha. I’m proud of every project that I’ve been involved in. What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you site which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less than stellar end product? Oh, no no. I’m not going to name names or trash talk any of my films or the people involved in them. There is a specific film that comes to mind, but I won’t say which one. I
One organization that I support is the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, which is an organization that is very important to me for personal reasons. As some people may or may not know, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 12. It’s been quite a struggle to get to where I am today and I’m very happy to say that I’ve been in remission for two years now – which is the longest amount of time I’ve been healthy since my diagnosis over a decade ago. This disease has no cure and this organization helps raise awareness and funds to try and find a cure and to find more effective medication for people who suffer from these digestive diseases. I also volunteer at the USO and attend fundraisers for The Heart of a Marine Foundation. At some point, when I’m more financially stable, I would like to join or start my own anti-bullying organization. I’d like to speak at schools and help raise awareness about this issue and help educate people on how to help eradicate it from our schools. No 33
crew involved with that project are awesome and I adore every single one of them). Then I have a cameo role in Poetic this summer and then leading roles in Idiot Gore, and Disciples, which will be shot late this summer and throughout the fall. It’s going to be such a busy year full of badass projects and I’m very much looking forward to. How do you unwind after a long day on set? I like to read or eat ice cream. I’m a junk food junkie, haha. Sometimes a hot shower is nice. Or a cold shower, depending on the weather.
one should feel unsafe at their own school. What do you think is the current state of horror both mainstream and independent? I think mainstream horror is terrible for the most part. It’s unoriginal and consists mostly of remakes. Independent horror films are where it’s at. There are so many creative, original, awesome indie horror films that I’ve worked on or will be working on this year that it’s just a shame to see the kind of crap that the big studios are putting out there. Support indie horror! If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? Hmm, good question. Probably Buffy in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, though I definitely prefer the television version of the character over the movie version. Or River in Serenity. Joss Whedon does an amazing job of creating strong female characters. I LOVE his work and I love the characters he creates. What exciting projects are in store for Kaylee Williams? Well I worked on Cory J. Udler’s Mediatrix at the beginning of May in Wisconsin (amazing experience, by the way. The entire cast and 34
Where can your fans go to learn more about you? They can check out my IMDb page to see what some of my upcoming films are or they can add me on Facebook, where I post daily about what I’m working on, what conventions I will be attending, and what I am up to. http://www.imdb.me/kayleewilliams http://facebook.com/ActressKayleeWilliams Anything else you’d like to add? I’d like to thank you for the interview and thank my friends and fans for their constant support! It means the world to me.
Bethany Taylor Interview Growing up, were you a fan of horror movies? And if so, which ones were your favourites? I certainly was a fan of horror movies when I was a kid. Though I was frightened of the extremely gory films, I love suspense thrillers. I was very interested in Alfred Hitchcock films, especially Psycho. When did you know you wanted to be an actress (i.e. work in the industry)? I remember the moment when I wanted to become an actor. I was around six or seven years old and was watching a live performance of the musical Annie. After the performance I told my mom “I want to do that!” A few weeks later I was enrolled in a children’s theatre program at Tufts University. Also, my elementary school teachers told my parents that I was rather “loud and dramatic”, and that I should take acting lessons. Any jobs on a movie set besides acting that you’d like to try? Writing? Directing? Producing? Over the past 5 years or so I have developed a strong interest in directing. A few weeks ago I directed my first full length play SubUrbia by Eric Bogosian. I love the freedom you have with directing. When I’m on a movie set I always study how the director works with the actors. I have yet to direct a film but see myself hopefully directing one in the near future. Also, I’m a big fan of dialect training. Growing up in Boston I have a natural Boston accent. I think it would be interesting to work on movie sets with actors who are speaking with a Boston dialect in the film. I first saw you in Camp Slaughter. In my opinion, you stole the movie. Was this your first film? How did you get the role? Yes, Camp Slaughter was my very first movie, when I was 17. I remember the audition process very well. I went into Boston Casting and stood in a very long line. I was very quiet and did not say much to the other
girls around me. When it was my turn to audition I walked into the room and met Alex Pucci. They gave me a side to read and after that they asked me to sing “The Happy Camper Song”. I said “FUCK THE HAPPY CAMPER SONG. I’ve had it up to here with that song”. Alex laughed and I stood there awkwardly smiling. I wasn’t sure if he liked it or not. A week or so later I got a call saying that he wanted me to audition again. After a few more auditions I was cast in the role of Michelle. Thanks for the great compliment! Something magic happened as soon as the cameras started rolling. I had this overwhelming confidence and focus. Acting on film just made sense to me at first and I’ve adored it ever since. We’ve worked together on The Green Monster. What was the experience like for you? Is there anything you’d do differently? The Green Monster was a wonderful experience for me. I really enjoyed working with everyone involved. I loved how original and raw the story was and how well the cast and crew got along. It was my first on screen kiss, too! My family was thrilled to have some of the scenes filmed in our neighbourhood. The only this I would have changed was I wish we had more extras in the high school scenes to make it look more like a busy school. What is Survival Camp? Survival Camp was a short film that Alex Pucci asked me to be in. I remember being in a few scenes and got to relive my experience in playing a camp counsellor in a film. It was very fun! 35
Mart which was really uncomfortable. To me, the film was poorly acted with crude unoriginal humour. Do you see yourself continuing to work in horror films or would you like to predominately do other genres? I love horror films. Each one I’ve been in has been a very unique experience. I would love to do more! I would really like more opportunities to play the killer!
What’s your favourite movie (already filmed) that you’ve been in? Why? Last year I had a small speaking role in Sunnyside Up starring Parker Posey. I played a fast food employee who wore a goofy uniform with a plush chicken hat on my head. This was the first major motion picture that I had a speaking role in. Even though it was small I will never forget how thrilling it was to have so many crew members watching me deliver lines. As for horror films Camp Slaughter was my absolute favourite. I loved the entire experience from the moment I arrived at my first audition until the last day on set. I thought it was really cool how the entire cast and crew stayed in the cabins at the camp. I’m proud to say that Camp Slaughter was my first movie experience. What’s your least favourite? And what problems can you site which led to the project becoming an un-enjoyable work experience or less than stellar end product? I was a featured extra in the film My Best Friend’s Girl starring Dane Cook and Kate Hudson. I was shocked at how rude some of the main actors were to their fellow actors and crew. I worked long hours on that film and our holding area was in a closed down K36
What do you think is the current state of horror, both mainstream and independent? I think the horror genre needs something new to happen. I’m sick of seeing the same actors and same plotlines. I want to see something original and shocking. I also want Hollywood to break free of it's obsession with skinny actresses. I'm proud to be a plus size actress and think that it's much more believable for me to kill someone in a movie than some annoying mousey blonde who can't even hold up the axe! We’re practically done with the torture porn craze. We’re hopefully getting away from remakes. Any predictions on the next big thing in horror? I think the next big thing in horror will be films shown in 3D or IMAX which will make the audience members jump even more! If you could be in any movie already made, what would it be? And whom would you play? I would love to have played Clarice Starling in The Silence of the Lambs.
What exciting projects are in store for Bethany Taylor? I’ve been a member of the Screen Actors
Guild since 2009 so I’ve been doing a lot of union work. Right now I am three-quarters away from getting my B.A. degree in theatre. After graduating I am thinking of attending graduate school for an M.F.A. in directing or acting. I was also thinking of relocating to Los Angeles and doing more film work.
Anything else you’d like to add? Thanks so much for taking the time to ask me these questions! Thank you so much to Alex Pucci who discovered me and was the first to believe in my talent! He’s an amazing director and a thrill to work with. I hope to work with him again very soon! Also thanks to Draven Gonzalez, writer of Frat House Massacre and Camp Slaughter for also believing in me and always making me laugh on set!
This magazine does a lot of interviews with horror authors and publishes a lot of horror fiction. Do you have a favourite horror author and/or book? I know this is going to sound corny but, Stephen King’s books have been scaring the crap out of me for years! I’d love to dive deeper into the horror fiction genre and am always interested in new, exciting authors and stories. What do you look for in choosing future roles? I first read the script very carefully and imagine myself as that person. Is it believable to me? Can I relate to the character? If not, what research do I need to do? The characters I like the most are the ones that are far from my own personality. I love analyzing characters and rely heavily on my acting training to make the character come to life. How do you unwind after a long day on set? I will usually listen to music, read, or play around on World of Warcraft. Where can your fans go to learn more about you? At the moment my website is being worked on so fans are welcome to reach me at btaylorfans@gmail.com. I always answer emails and love to talk to people who have seen the films I’ve been in! 37
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