What interested you the most about working on this project and how did you become involved with it?
When I first got the call to audition for the role of Garrett in Bad Teacher I was really excited to be trying out for a project that was going to star Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake. Then I got a callback and got to spend some time with director Jake Kasdan and we really hit it off. I respected him so much and I could tell he believed in me. We both worked well together, and I had a good understanding of what it was he was looking for After our session, Jake invited me to the table read at Sony studios which was an awesome experience. When I was told I had booked the role I was thrilled and felt very honored.
Where did you draw inspiration from for the character you are portraying?
My character, Garrett, is actually kind of similar to me in some ways. I don’t write poetry, or wear the same sweatshirt everyday, but sometimes I feel that awkward, and a nervous side of me comes out, especially around girls.
What can you tell us about any secrets or behind the scenes stories that you can share with us?
One day on set, Cameron and I were filming a scene together, and at the end of a take, Cameron stood up and said “Ok guys, see you later!” and just walked off set. We were shocked because we were still in the middle of shooting! The whole crew and cast just stood there for a while wondering what we were supposed to do, then all of a sudden, Cameron jumped back in the room and said “APPRIL FOOLS!”” we all laughed a lot, and were really relieved. Everyone forgot it was April 1st.
Another thing, Cameron is quite an athlete and took the time to give me some good pointers on boxing – she was really a good teacher
Justin was also alot of fun to be with. He played basketball with us on several occasions – he’s really a great player.
When you consider a script or a potential TV or film project, what elements tend to draw you in and make you want to work on that film?
When it’s a comedy, I love to work with a character where I can really just go 100% into it. Like with Garrett, my hair was totally gelled down flat, and I had the same blue sweatshirt, and alot of the comedy was in his general appearance. I love those kind of characters. I love the idea of playing someone that others can relate to and learn from.
What inspired you to choose a career in film/TV; do you have any advice for people who are looking to get into the television and or film industry and what was your big break?
I was inspired to become an actor mainly because I had been doing theater since the age of 4. I always loved acting, and when I had an opportunity to take a workshop on film and TV acting, it was really exiting for me. If I had any advice for people, I guess it would be never stop learning the craft, and never give up on yourself! The more you keep going, and the more you learn, the better you’re going to get.
Who is your favorite actor or actress who inspires you the most and why?
I think Im most inspired by Robert Redford. I love the fact that not only is he an amazing actor, but also a great director and environmentalist. I had an opportunity to be an actor for the Sundance Directors Lab, and it was incredible to be able to work with, and learn from so many well known actors and directors like Stanley Tucci, Harold Ramis, and of course Robert Redford.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I am a documentary filmmaker and have fortunate to win awards at film festivals, so I’m always busy working on my next project, and I also play bass guitar, guitar, and I sing and dance.
What do you have upcoming that we can look forward to seeing you in?
I’m making a documentary about a very good friend of mine named Woody Duffy, who has a rare disease called MPS1, and the film will tell the story of his diagnosis, and the work that he and his mom did to help raise money to hire doctors and researchers to find a cure for Woody’s disease. I’m producing and directing that, and will also narrate the film.
