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Compilation CD

Jason Seitz

Jason Seitz
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Interview With Jason Seitz By Chris 24/10/07

Jason Seitz is an up and coming american actor, who gonna go far so naturally an interview was a must so read on
IMDB
http://www.myspace.com/actorjasonseitz
http://www.jasonseitz.com

1. What made you want to become an actor?

Communication. To listen and be heard is one of the most neglected and desired type of connections one can have with one another. I love to communicate.

2. What was like working on ‘Elephant’?

Oh Elephant was awesome! Thanks so much for asking. Thats how I got my SAG card. We filmed at an abandoned school in Portland OR. I was living in Seattle at the time. It was such a trip because I originally turned down the role. I dont know what I was thinking but I almost lost it. Thank God Casting convinced me to re-evaluate my decision and take the job. I remember her distinctively saying. “Jason, I just want you to make sure you know what youre doing...” I ended up being the key player in my scene, getting taft-hartlyed, and the rest is history. Elephant even ended up taking home the Golden Palm at Cannes Film Festival later that year.

3. What was Gus Van Sant like to work with?

From an actors point of view…? A canvas yet to be painted on… The framing was there, but Gus didnt want anything but our own take on the scene(s). He was so open to ideas, and truly focused on what everyone had in mind. The thing about working on a Gus Van Sant film is how special you feel. Gus doesnt just pick anyone to be in his movies. Its very well known that he has a great eye for talent.

4. What do you do to prepare for a role?

It depends on the role and how alike I am to it. I usually read the script, make some choices, and listen to my partner. People forget that listening is just as much communicating as speaking.

I remember one time I went into a Starbucks in character for the role I was working on in Emilio (2008) Along side my punk attire and cockney accent I needed more of a stretch. So I went into Starbucks with the intent to get some free coffee. I realized I wouldnt be pleased with the outcome unless I created more trouble because it was so easy to get the coffee for free. So I purposely spilled my drink! I know, pretty mean huh? But after that I felt like I accomplished what I came there to do.

5. Any techniques you use to remember lines?

Not really. Paying attention to where you are in the story helps a great deal.

6. What was it like working on ‘Rolling’?

They were so good to me. I only have one scene in the movie but from the get go theyve always called it a Cameo. In some of the publicity for the movie they say “Rounding out the cast is Jason Seitz who was in Gus Van Sants Elephant”. That acknowledgment touched my heart. Everyone in production was so happy to have me and we all had so much fun together. I have a strong Cameo where I give the lead of the film his death ecstasy pill.

7. Are you happy how that film has been received?

Yes. Weve been accepted to film festivals all over the world and have won the top award at the SF Independent Film Festival, as well as the NY Evil City Film Festival. Plus Ive made some great friends!!!! Love you guys ~

8. What have you got lined up next?

A step up regarding my Talent Agent! Whoohoo! Im up to a B-Level now baby!

9. What's in your stereo at the moment?

Plumb

10. What are some of your favorite movies?

Weekend at Bernies, Wishmaster, Short Circuit, The Never Ending Story, Mysterious Skin, Flight of the Navigator, Pure Luck, Goonies, Heart and Souls, Edward Scissorhands, Petes Dragon, Vacancy, Labyrinth, D.A.R.Y.L., Purgatory House, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, The Good Son, Drop Dead Fred, Back to the Future(s), 12 and Holding, The Blue Butterfly, A Bronx Tale, States Evidence, The Three Fugitives, District B13, Hocus Pocus, Misery, The Host

11. Would you ever go overseas for a role?

I would travel anywhere to communicate my role in a story.

12. Any plans to write and direct a film at some stage?

Its funny you mention that because I already have. Jason Seitz Plays the Caterpillar (2002). Its a documentary style film and revolves around character development as well as how to create your own short film. We go from location scouting, to wardrobe, test runs, to the final print. Ive always loved the Caterpillar from Alice in Wonderland. This film can only be rented at Scarecrow Video up in Seattle though.

Thanks for your time. Any last words?

In life we will never be perfect; but what we can do, is find purpose in our imperfection. Make the best of every moment you have and utilize your experiences to better yourself, and the world. What else are they there for? Just as everything in life were all imperfect for a reason. I believe our experiences carve out who we are; but only if we choose to use them that way.