Movies are my passion and as a film maker I really enjoy talking to actors, writers, directors and picking their brains about the business, their experiences and sometime ask them corny questions like "What's your favorite scary movie?" Why you ask?? Because I think it's fun and interesting to get to know them as more then just their profession :)
The Maine Morgue is something I've thought about doing for awhile now, originally it was a vlog series where I talked about movies, set experiences and review movies but that really got to me early on so I stopped doing that and have been looking for a new idea and it dawned on me a few days ago that I should interview horror movie almni and that's what this section of the website will be dedicated to. Enjoy !!
I will try to bring you as many interviews as I possibly can, if you have any requests feel free to send me a message on Twitter and I'll see what I can do. I look forward to talking to as many horror actors / actresses as I can.
I will also be posting more reviews, rankings and top ten list etc. while I'm waiting to line up Interviews for the page / channel . I can't say THANK YOU enough to my friends, family, fans and supporters for all you do for me to keep this dream alive !
I will also be active on the OFFICIAL TWITTER, the OFFICIAL Facebook, the OFFICIAL Instagram and the OFFICIAL YouTube Channel of The Maine Morgue so you can watch past episodes and videos HERE :
I will try to bring you as many interviews as I possibly can, if you have any requests feel free to send me a message on Twitter and I'll see what I can do. I look forward to talking to as many horror actors / actresses as I can.
I will also be posting more reviews, rankings and top ten list etc. while I'm waiting to line up Interviews for the page / channel . I can't say THANK YOU enough to my friends, family, fans and supporters for all you do for me to keep this dream alive !
I will also be active on the OFFICIAL TWITTER, the OFFICIAL Facebook, the OFFICIAL Instagram and the OFFICIAL YouTube Channel of The Maine Morgue so you can watch past episodes and videos HERE :
In this video I rank the TOP 10 Kills in Friday The 13th History ( Almost impossible to do in a series that has nearly 200 kills in it !!) Enjoy !
I'm back with another episode of the show where I talk about my love of the Friday The 13th series and I rank the films worst to best. I love making these videos for you to enjoy. I hope you like this video and I would love to talk to you about anything horror or Superhero related I'm a movie fan in general but Horror is my favorite genre. Enjoy ! Please SUBSCRIBE to the channel :) THANK YOU :)
This is something alittle different from me, I wanted to do this video in a few weeks but when I learned of Stan Lee's passing I figured I would do the video as a tribute to the Man, The Myth, The Legend Stan Lee, Enjoy the video !
Scream is an amazing franchise that has been successful in crossing from the big screen to the TV screen. In this video I rank my TOP 15 KILLS in SCREAM History, Enjoy !
In this video I rank the entire Scream franchise (including the MTV TV Series) from worst to best ! I love Scream just as much as I love Michael, Jason and Freddy. Ghostface is such an interesting character for many reasons and I think the Lakewood Slasher is just as interesting. Enjoy the video and I'll see ya next time !
My fourth and final (for now) video in my HALLOWEEN series is ranking the actors who played The Shape.
My latest video is MY ranking of the TOP 10 Kills in Halloween History, Enjoy the video :)
In the second video in my HALLOWEEN series I rank the Michael Myers Masks in the franchise... I hope you enjoy these videos and as always feel free to comment on the videos and reach out to me to discuss the list, Halloween and Horror in general I LOVE TALKING TO FELLOW HORROR FANS !
Here is the first in a series of videos in relation top the HALLOWEEN Film Franchise, in this video I RANK the films from worst to first, Enjoy the video and feel free to contact me to discuss Halloween, the rankings and anything HORROR related really.
INTERVIEW SECTION
I have to say that it was an honor for me to interview Miss Voorhees as the first interview for The Maine Morgue, she is in one of my favorite slasher movies of all time Friday The 13th Part V : A New Beginning. I hope you all enjoy this interview .
Q: In doing my research to prepare for this interview I learned that you are from Texas, what is it like growing up in Texas ??
We moved around a lot. My early years were in El Paso, Texas and then moved to many places in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. My grandparents lived on Grapevine Lake back when the area was mostly farms and ranches. Now its just a bunch of suburban neighborhoods. I spent my days with my grandparents horse back on Buck, a palomino. I rode through all the ranches and farm land. People would just wave. That was before people were afraid to let a kid ride on their property because of a potential lawsuit. I learned early on to love the wilderness, the outdoors. My father, who was in El Paso, took me to the wilderness of New Mexico, where I now live. I have lived in both the city and the country. Both have their advantages but I don't ever want to live in the city again. I love the kind of quiet where I can hear nothing but the wind and the coyotes and maybe a bugling elk, no cars, no mechanical equipment. My traffic jam is waiting for a herd of elk cross the road.
Q: While you are known for playing Tina in Friday The 13th Part V : A new Beginning which I want to tell you is my favorite character and kill in the entire series. Many fans may not know that you had a role on the Hit TV show Dallas from 1982 - 1985. What was it like working with all those amazing actors?
I worked both in front of and behind the camera on the TV show Dallas. I had seven speaking roles on that show, which was fun, but I enjoyed my behind the camera time the most. Being on set daily made you a part of the family. It was so much fun to show up on the set and have Larry Hagman sing, "DebiSue, I love you." It also gave me time to watch and learn. When ever I was onset, I always paid attention, kept quiet and listened, learned.
Interviewer's Note : My mom was a huge fan and would be very mad at me if I didn't ask the above question :)
Q: In doing my research to prepare for this interview I learned that you are from Texas, what is it like growing up in Texas ??
We moved around a lot. My early years were in El Paso, Texas and then moved to many places in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. My grandparents lived on Grapevine Lake back when the area was mostly farms and ranches. Now its just a bunch of suburban neighborhoods. I spent my days with my grandparents horse back on Buck, a palomino. I rode through all the ranches and farm land. People would just wave. That was before people were afraid to let a kid ride on their property because of a potential lawsuit. I learned early on to love the wilderness, the outdoors. My father, who was in El Paso, took me to the wilderness of New Mexico, where I now live. I have lived in both the city and the country. Both have their advantages but I don't ever want to live in the city again. I love the kind of quiet where I can hear nothing but the wind and the coyotes and maybe a bugling elk, no cars, no mechanical equipment. My traffic jam is waiting for a herd of elk cross the road.
Q: While you are known for playing Tina in Friday The 13th Part V : A new Beginning which I want to tell you is my favorite character and kill in the entire series. Many fans may not know that you had a role on the Hit TV show Dallas from 1982 - 1985. What was it like working with all those amazing actors?
I worked both in front of and behind the camera on the TV show Dallas. I had seven speaking roles on that show, which was fun, but I enjoyed my behind the camera time the most. Being on set daily made you a part of the family. It was so much fun to show up on the set and have Larry Hagman sing, "DebiSue, I love you." It also gave me time to watch and learn. When ever I was onset, I always paid attention, kept quiet and listened, learned.
Interviewer's Note : My mom was a huge fan and would be very mad at me if I didn't ask the above question :)
Q : During your time on Dallas you started your film career starring in "Innocent Prey" in 1984 along side Halloween Alumni PJ Soles can you tell me alittle bit about that ?
That was an interesting film to work on. I learned more about how actors can work together on that set then any other. Kit Taylor played a murderous husband, who was killing prostitutes. I was so nervous on set the first day. Kit immediately put me at ease. I needed to give him a sexy sweet smile but was nervous. Instinctively, he knew and came to my rescue when he smiled sweetly and let a lemon seed pop out of his mouth. I knew then that actors help each other get where they need to go to make a scene feel real. I still appreciate this kindness he gave to me.
That was an interesting film to work on. I learned more about how actors can work together on that set then any other. Kit Taylor played a murderous husband, who was killing prostitutes. I was so nervous on set the first day. Kit immediately put me at ease. I needed to give him a sexy sweet smile but was nervous. Instinctively, he knew and came to my rescue when he smiled sweetly and let a lemon seed pop out of his mouth. I knew then that actors help each other get where they need to go to make a scene feel real. I still appreciate this kindness he gave to me.
Q: You followed Innocent Pray up with "Avenging Angel" in 1985 that was an interesting role what was that experience like for you as a young actor?
This was another set I really enjoyed working on. Betsy Russell, the film's lead, was very kind and fun to hang with. I played, a hooker with a heart, Roxie. We shot this on the streets of L.A., not that far from Hollywood Blvd.
This was another set I really enjoyed working on. Betsy Russell, the film's lead, was very kind and fun to hang with. I played, a hooker with a heart, Roxie. We shot this on the streets of L.A., not that far from Hollywood Blvd.
Q: Later in 1985 you of course followed Avenging Angel with your iconic role as Tina in Friday The 13th Part V : A New Beginning I'm sure you have talked to death about the nude / sex scene in that movie so I'll phrase my question this way, what advice would you give an actress who is preparing for a nude scene / sex scene ?
Advice? Well, I would say, let the crew, the camera and the director disappear and just be in the place and time. Acting is really just pretending you're someone else. It is very relaxing once you get into the flow.
The most nerve wracking time is just before the director calls action. After that it all just flows.
This is why, as a director, I sometimes do a round robin for actors who are particularly nervous. They can stay in the flow rather than having to cut and restart.
Advice? Well, I would say, let the crew, the camera and the director disappear and just be in the place and time. Acting is really just pretending you're someone else. It is very relaxing once you get into the flow.
The most nerve wracking time is just before the director calls action. After that it all just flows.
This is why, as a director, I sometimes do a round robin for actors who are particularly nervous. They can stay in the flow rather than having to cut and restart.
As an indie film maker I enjoy getting into the head of my fellow creators so now I would like to ask you some odd ball questions..
Q: What are your favorite movies ?
I have many favorites, but I count my true favorites as the ones I want to see over and over: Much Ado About Nothing with Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson, The Bad Seed with Patty McCormack, and August Rush with Freddie Highmore, whom I had the honor of meeting at Texas Frightmare, where we were both signing autographs.
Q: What is your go to movie snack ?
Hmmm. Love my hubby's popcorn made with real butter and yummy spicy seasonings, but I also like a bowl of cereal with fruit or yogurt and fruit and nuts and ICE CREAM!
Q: Are you a watch at home or go to the theater movie fan?
I love to watch movies at the theater and at home. Both are special.
Q: What are your favorite movies ?
I have many favorites, but I count my true favorites as the ones I want to see over and over: Much Ado About Nothing with Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson, The Bad Seed with Patty McCormack, and August Rush with Freddie Highmore, whom I had the honor of meeting at Texas Frightmare, where we were both signing autographs.
Q: What is your go to movie snack ?
Hmmm. Love my hubby's popcorn made with real butter and yummy spicy seasonings, but I also like a bowl of cereal with fruit or yogurt and fruit and nuts and ICE CREAM!
Q: Are you a watch at home or go to the theater movie fan?
I love to watch movies at the theater and at home. Both are special.
Q: In doing my research I learned that you are a successful journalist with the Fort Worth Star - Telegram. Did you always have a passion for writing or was it something you learned during your acting career?
I was a journalist for almost two decades. Most of my career I spent at The Dallas Morning News, but I have also written for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the Shakespeare Standard, and Modern Luxury and Front Desk magazines. I loved my time as journalist. I had the privilege of interviewing some amazing people. I am forever grateful that they shared a part of their life with me.
I was a journalist for almost two decades. Most of my career I spent at The Dallas Morning News, but I have also written for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the Shakespeare Standard, and Modern Luxury and Front Desk magazines. I loved my time as journalist. I had the privilege of interviewing some amazing people. I am forever grateful that they shared a part of their life with me.
Q: This brings me to your film making career. What inspired you to step behind the camera?
I had left journalism after a layoff from The Dallas Morning News and decided I wanted to give back to the world to say thank you to the teachers who helped me. My teaching career was short lived because two school boards and administrations drove me out because of my nude role in Friday the 13th. Ironically, no one cared that my eyes were gouged out or that I contributed to our violent culture by being in the film. The problem was exposing my breasts, something that feeds babies, was deemed as wrong. Seriously? That is screwed up in ways that I hope people will come out of this collective hypnoses and realize the insanity in that type of thought process.
So once teaching fell through for me, I decided to go back to a less judgmental industry: filmmaking. One of my student's brothers Phillip David Collins came to my class to photograph a mural his brother had created before the administration had it painted over. We talked about filmmaking and he read a screenplay I wrote, loved it and said, "You know you could make this a film yourself." I believed him. It was that simple. Once you believe you can you can take on any hurdle out there. He ended up playing Wilma, a drag queen, in the film, and he was absolutely brilliant in it. He also became my Assistant Producer. He really helped make the film a reality as did all the amazing people who gave their time to see the film made.
I had left journalism after a layoff from The Dallas Morning News and decided I wanted to give back to the world to say thank you to the teachers who helped me. My teaching career was short lived because two school boards and administrations drove me out because of my nude role in Friday the 13th. Ironically, no one cared that my eyes were gouged out or that I contributed to our violent culture by being in the film. The problem was exposing my breasts, something that feeds babies, was deemed as wrong. Seriously? That is screwed up in ways that I hope people will come out of this collective hypnoses and realize the insanity in that type of thought process.
So once teaching fell through for me, I decided to go back to a less judgmental industry: filmmaking. One of my student's brothers Phillip David Collins came to my class to photograph a mural his brother had created before the administration had it painted over. We talked about filmmaking and he read a screenplay I wrote, loved it and said, "You know you could make this a film yourself." I believed him. It was that simple. Once you believe you can you can take on any hurdle out there. He ended up playing Wilma, a drag queen, in the film, and he was absolutely brilliant in it. He also became my Assistant Producer. He really helped make the film a reality as did all the amazing people who gave their time to see the film made.
Q: You wrote and directed "Billy Shakespeare" in 2014. How would you describe going from being in front of the camera as an actress and stepping behind the camera as the decision maker on a film?
I, by far, prefer directing and editing a film to acting. A director has more balls to juggle but the actors job I contend is the hardest because they have to keep it natural no matter how unreal a film set is. I would much rather help an actor get where she needs to go then to act myself. I do hope to play a scary old woman one day in one of my films.
Q: You have worn alot of hats on movie sets I've never done editing, it seems like a complicated mess to take that on. Was it a struggle to learn to edit?
Editing has made me a better director and writer. When you sit down with the clips, you soon understand what you did wrong as a director and writer. Honestly, I don't know how you learn to be a director without editing your own film. Editing is both technical and an art form. I learn every time I sit down to edit. Editing hones your skills and makes you better at planning and shooting your script.
Q: As a film maker myself I often refer to my time on set as "Controlled Chaos", would you agree with this and how to you juggle all the jobs you handle on set?
Controlled Chaos? Yes, I'd say that's accurate.
Something always goes wrong. There are always a thousand reasons to pack up and quit but to get a film done quitting can never be an option. You shoot, keep moving forward no matter what. Be ready to change your plans on a moments notice.
Q: You have made a mix of feature and short films could you talk alittle bit about the biggest challenges you have faced when switching between the two formats and which do you find more interesting?
Honestly, I don't find there is much difference in shooting features and shorts. Both tell a story. The difference comes when shooting a music video vs. full-length feature film. I love shooting music videos. It's so freeing. You don't have to worry about sound or the 180 rule or anything but what crazy idea you want to shoot. It's all run and gun. Love it.
I, by far, prefer directing and editing a film to acting. A director has more balls to juggle but the actors job I contend is the hardest because they have to keep it natural no matter how unreal a film set is. I would much rather help an actor get where she needs to go then to act myself. I do hope to play a scary old woman one day in one of my films.
Q: You have worn alot of hats on movie sets I've never done editing, it seems like a complicated mess to take that on. Was it a struggle to learn to edit?
Editing has made me a better director and writer. When you sit down with the clips, you soon understand what you did wrong as a director and writer. Honestly, I don't know how you learn to be a director without editing your own film. Editing is both technical and an art form. I learn every time I sit down to edit. Editing hones your skills and makes you better at planning and shooting your script.
Q: As a film maker myself I often refer to my time on set as "Controlled Chaos", would you agree with this and how to you juggle all the jobs you handle on set?
Controlled Chaos? Yes, I'd say that's accurate.
Something always goes wrong. There are always a thousand reasons to pack up and quit but to get a film done quitting can never be an option. You shoot, keep moving forward no matter what. Be ready to change your plans on a moments notice.
Q: You have made a mix of feature and short films could you talk alittle bit about the biggest challenges you have faced when switching between the two formats and which do you find more interesting?
Honestly, I don't find there is much difference in shooting features and shorts. Both tell a story. The difference comes when shooting a music video vs. full-length feature film. I love shooting music videos. It's so freeing. You don't have to worry about sound or the 180 rule or anything but what crazy idea you want to shoot. It's all run and gun. Love it.
Q: Last year you released a film called "Catching Up" and from what I understand Your horror comedy "The List" which looks like a really cool project is tied into "Catching Up" how did this project come about and could you share just a little bit about how Sally is connected to both stories?
Catching Up is a dark comedy written by New York playwright Tom Sime. He's a brilliant satirist of life. He sees life's absurdities. Sally is a socialite obsessed with murder. Molly Wickwire-Sante played the role of Sally. She's brilliant. Her mood flipped with a flick of her head or bat of her eyes. Brilliant performer. I didn't realize that I had a film that horror fans would respond to, but I showed it at Texas Frightmare and the fans loved the wicked Sally. That's when I realized that Sally need to grow into a full-fledge serial killer.
Catching Up is a dark comedy written by New York playwright Tom Sime. He's a brilliant satirist of life. He sees life's absurdities. Sally is a socialite obsessed with murder. Molly Wickwire-Sante played the role of Sally. She's brilliant. Her mood flipped with a flick of her head or bat of her eyes. Brilliant performer. I didn't realize that I had a film that horror fans would respond to, but I showed it at Texas Frightmare and the fans loved the wicked Sally. That's when I realized that Sally need to grow into a full-fledge serial killer.
Q: Do you have any other upcoming projects you want to talk about or anything you would like to say to your fans?
I have a huge announcement coming up. Maybe we can chat about it soon? For now, I will say that I have a horror/thriller film project that will star some of your favorite Friday the 13th celebrities. I will be directing.
IN CLOSING : I would love to talk to you about that project as well as anything else you would like to discuss, Thank You Deborah for granting me this interview it means alot to me both personally and professionally.
I have a huge announcement coming up. Maybe we can chat about it soon? For now, I will say that I have a horror/thriller film project that will star some of your favorite Friday the 13th celebrities. I will be directing.
IN CLOSING : I would love to talk to you about that project as well as anything else you would like to discuss, Thank You Deborah for granting me this interview it means alot to me both personally and professionally.
I have to say from a fans point of view that this interview was awesome for me to be able to do, I'm a fan of Dan's version of Leatherface and for me to get to ask him about playing such an iconic character was awesome, I hope you enjoy reading this interview as much as I enjoyed conducting it.
Thank you for agreeing to this interview for "The Maine Morgue" it's a huge honor for me to get to ask you these questions as I'm a huge horror fan and an indie film maker myself . Like we discussed on Facebook, I'm not in a big hurry to get the interview printed, I know your a busy man in the industry. Lets get started .
Q: You were born in Cleveland, Ohio which is a big sports city. Did you grow up a Sports fan ?
I was born in Columbia Station, Ohio; approximately 20 miles South and 40 years behind Cleveland. However, we were in the Cleveland TV market and suffered the indignity of having to cheer for the Indians, Browns and Cavs. It was a rough time for sports fans there. Therefore, I hate professional sports. It means nothing but disappointment, sadness, and heartbreak. I'll take a high school game any day.
Q: You grew up a Science Fiction and Horror movie fan. What are some of your favorite films from each genre ?
I love all kinds of movies, really. One great thing about the Cleveland TV market was that there was no shortage of horror an sci-fi for a kid to watch. Hoolihan and Big Chuck showed a monster movie every Friday Night, after the news, then The Ghoul showed one on Saturday Night. We got all the Universal classics, which I love, and some more obscure B-Movies. Saturday afternoon, this weird little guy who called himself "Super Host" showed a lot of Japanese monster movies. There was always something good on the Late Shaw during the week, and for some reason my parents allowed me to stay up and watch them. Favorites are: Frankenstein (1931), Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula (Lugosi), Count Yorga - Vampire, Them!, This Island Earth, The Mummy (Karloff), Forbidden Planet, The Creeping Terror (low budget schlock), Night of the Living Dead, Texas Chainsaw Massacre (of course), THX1138, The Shining, The Exorcist. Other favorite movies are: Le Mans, Bullitt, Papillon (Steve McQueen); It's A Gift (W.C. Fields); Min and Bill (Marie Dressler and Wallace Beery); Laughing Gravy (Laurel and Hardy); any Marx Brothers movie; The Dresser, Orphans (Albert Finney); Lawrence of Arabia, The Wizard of Oz, It's a Wonderful Life... This list is getting too long. Sorry... (Paper Moon, Grand Illusion...)
Q: While I was doing my research for this interview I noticed you received "Special Thanks" for "The Music Box" in 2010 what was your role in the making of that movie?
That was an experimental short made by a friend of mine, Tara Alexis, who is becoming a great filmmaker. I helped with some producing and set building, if I recall, and had some editorial input, as well. We've since lost touch, but I try to follow what she's doing online. In Hollywood, everybody helps where they can. It's a great community that way.
Q: You were born in Cleveland, Ohio which is a big sports city. Did you grow up a Sports fan ?
I was born in Columbia Station, Ohio; approximately 20 miles South and 40 years behind Cleveland. However, we were in the Cleveland TV market and suffered the indignity of having to cheer for the Indians, Browns and Cavs. It was a rough time for sports fans there. Therefore, I hate professional sports. It means nothing but disappointment, sadness, and heartbreak. I'll take a high school game any day.
Q: You grew up a Science Fiction and Horror movie fan. What are some of your favorite films from each genre ?
I love all kinds of movies, really. One great thing about the Cleveland TV market was that there was no shortage of horror an sci-fi for a kid to watch. Hoolihan and Big Chuck showed a monster movie every Friday Night, after the news, then The Ghoul showed one on Saturday Night. We got all the Universal classics, which I love, and some more obscure B-Movies. Saturday afternoon, this weird little guy who called himself "Super Host" showed a lot of Japanese monster movies. There was always something good on the Late Shaw during the week, and for some reason my parents allowed me to stay up and watch them. Favorites are: Frankenstein (1931), Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula (Lugosi), Count Yorga - Vampire, Them!, This Island Earth, The Mummy (Karloff), Forbidden Planet, The Creeping Terror (low budget schlock), Night of the Living Dead, Texas Chainsaw Massacre (of course), THX1138, The Shining, The Exorcist. Other favorite movies are: Le Mans, Bullitt, Papillon (Steve McQueen); It's A Gift (W.C. Fields); Min and Bill (Marie Dressler and Wallace Beery); Laughing Gravy (Laurel and Hardy); any Marx Brothers movie; The Dresser, Orphans (Albert Finney); Lawrence of Arabia, The Wizard of Oz, It's a Wonderful Life... This list is getting too long. Sorry... (Paper Moon, Grand Illusion...)
Q: While I was doing my research for this interview I noticed you received "Special Thanks" for "The Music Box" in 2010 what was your role in the making of that movie?
That was an experimental short made by a friend of mine, Tara Alexis, who is becoming a great filmmaker. I helped with some producing and set building, if I recall, and had some editorial input, as well. We've since lost touch, but I try to follow what she's doing online. In Hollywood, everybody helps where they can. It's a great community that way.
Q: I'm an indie film maker who's made three movies to date and my biggest pet peeve on set is wasting time and people being late. What is your number one pet peeve on set ?
I don't know that I have a pet peeve, but I see a lot of people who seem to think that it's easy to be an actor and don't put the work into learning the craft before they impose themselves on a movie set. Movie acting requires a particular set of skills that don't come from "method" training. They don't learn the skills it takes to execute a performance for the camera, and therefore often deliver work that is difficult to edit and tedious to shoot. I know what you mean about wasting time. People who can't hit marks or follow simple directions are annoying. A rule I wish everyone who aspires to a career in movies would learn is, if you're not 15 minutes early, you're late. Know that there's a 2nd AD looking at the call sheet 10 minutes before your time, dreading you won't show up. If you waltz in 5 minutes late, no phone call, they've already talked to 3 people who can replace you; and they will on the next production. Be early.
Q: You were an associate Producer on a film called "Ordinary Average Guys" in 2011. Do you feel a different type of pressure being a producer behind the scenes then when you're on screen as the star of a film ?
All I did on that project was facilitate a few elements like set design and construction, and getting insurance riders on short notice when one of the real Producers crashed and burned. It's completely different behind the scenes. I don't think I'll ever be a Producer. Michael Kehoe has since gone on to do some great things. I hope he remembers me and we can make a movie together again.
I don't know that I have a pet peeve, but I see a lot of people who seem to think that it's easy to be an actor and don't put the work into learning the craft before they impose themselves on a movie set. Movie acting requires a particular set of skills that don't come from "method" training. They don't learn the skills it takes to execute a performance for the camera, and therefore often deliver work that is difficult to edit and tedious to shoot. I know what you mean about wasting time. People who can't hit marks or follow simple directions are annoying. A rule I wish everyone who aspires to a career in movies would learn is, if you're not 15 minutes early, you're late. Know that there's a 2nd AD looking at the call sheet 10 minutes before your time, dreading you won't show up. If you waltz in 5 minutes late, no phone call, they've already talked to 3 people who can replace you; and they will on the next production. Be early.
Q: You were an associate Producer on a film called "Ordinary Average Guys" in 2011. Do you feel a different type of pressure being a producer behind the scenes then when you're on screen as the star of a film ?
All I did on that project was facilitate a few elements like set design and construction, and getting insurance riders on short notice when one of the real Producers crashed and burned. It's completely different behind the scenes. I don't think I'll ever be a Producer. Michael Kehoe has since gone on to do some great things. I hope he remembers me and we can make a movie together again.
Q: You followed "Ordinary Average Guys" with Metal Heads playing "Cop 2" This film looked like lot of fun, what do you remember about this film?
MH was another no-budget project by a good friend, Tony Stengel. He is a great guy to work with. It was a kind of auto-biographical story of his youth, making the scene in Hollywood in the '80s. It was fun. I spent most of my time behind the camera doing grip stuff. I liked being a cop, though, and getting a glimpse at my buddy when he was kid. It was a heart-felt story, which is always good. I hope Tony and I can make some more movies together. He's an interesting dude.
In 2013 you played the iconic "Leatherface" in Texas Chainsaw 3D which I have to tell you is my favorite in the entire series. The story was amazing, it was well written and just overall an awesome movie. the next few questions will be about your time lugging the chainsaw around.
MH was another no-budget project by a good friend, Tony Stengel. He is a great guy to work with. It was a kind of auto-biographical story of his youth, making the scene in Hollywood in the '80s. It was fun. I spent most of my time behind the camera doing grip stuff. I liked being a cop, though, and getting a glimpse at my buddy when he was kid. It was a heart-felt story, which is always good. I hope Tony and I can make some more movies together. He's an interesting dude.
In 2013 you played the iconic "Leatherface" in Texas Chainsaw 3D which I have to tell you is my favorite in the entire series. The story was amazing, it was well written and just overall an awesome movie. the next few questions will be about your time lugging the chainsaw around.
Q: What was it like to be cast as "Leatherface" and how did it all unfold?
I was friends with the Producer. We met about the time he had acquired the rights to the franchise, and I got to read the script as he developed it. I gave notes on a lot of the inconsistencies with the franchise in the early drafts, and I think they realized I knew the material pretty well, being a fan since high school. The Producer, however, was loath to cast his friend in the title role (it was called "Leatherface 3D" before they changed it to "Texas Chainsaw 3D") let alone shove me down the throat of the Director, so he invited us both to a Christmas Party at his house. I think he had mentioned to John that he had a friend who might be good in the role, but he merely planted the seed and let us find each other. The Director wrote an article for the Huffington Post about the night he laid eyes on this sullen, brooding hulk (me) and how he told Mark Berg (Twisted Pictures) "I think I'm looking at Leatherface." We met the following week, and talked about it. I had the natural physical presence that could translate into someone who grew up on an isolated farm in Texas, as opposed to someone who spent their life in the gym, like so many other candidates. I didn't audition for the role in the traditional sense.
Q: In doing my research for this interview I learned that you are the tallest actor ever to play "Leatherface" Did you know that at the time of filming and do fans bring that up to you when you meet them?
I did hear that early on, but the height difference is minimal. Leatherface really just has to be bigger than the other actors in the movie. It's kind of a cinematic rule that the bigger character is more dangerous and violent, and likely to harm the smaller character. It's just how movies work. Fans are often surprised by my size when they meet me. They can do a lot to cheat the frame and make you look bigger, but in my case, it wasn't necessary.
I was friends with the Producer. We met about the time he had acquired the rights to the franchise, and I got to read the script as he developed it. I gave notes on a lot of the inconsistencies with the franchise in the early drafts, and I think they realized I knew the material pretty well, being a fan since high school. The Producer, however, was loath to cast his friend in the title role (it was called "Leatherface 3D" before they changed it to "Texas Chainsaw 3D") let alone shove me down the throat of the Director, so he invited us both to a Christmas Party at his house. I think he had mentioned to John that he had a friend who might be good in the role, but he merely planted the seed and let us find each other. The Director wrote an article for the Huffington Post about the night he laid eyes on this sullen, brooding hulk (me) and how he told Mark Berg (Twisted Pictures) "I think I'm looking at Leatherface." We met the following week, and talked about it. I had the natural physical presence that could translate into someone who grew up on an isolated farm in Texas, as opposed to someone who spent their life in the gym, like so many other candidates. I didn't audition for the role in the traditional sense.
Q: In doing my research for this interview I learned that you are the tallest actor ever to play "Leatherface" Did you know that at the time of filming and do fans bring that up to you when you meet them?
I did hear that early on, but the height difference is minimal. Leatherface really just has to be bigger than the other actors in the movie. It's kind of a cinematic rule that the bigger character is more dangerous and violent, and likely to harm the smaller character. It's just how movies work. Fans are often surprised by my size when they meet me. They can do a lot to cheat the frame and make you look bigger, but in my case, it wasn't necessary.
Q: What is the best part of playing "Leatherface" ?
The best part was getting into the head of this misunderstood monster and glimpsing what his reality is like.
Q: What's the worst part of playing "Leatherface" ?
The worst part was getting into the head of this misunderstood monster and glimpsing what his reality is like.
The best part was getting into the head of this misunderstood monster and glimpsing what his reality is like.
Q: What's the worst part of playing "Leatherface" ?
The worst part was getting into the head of this misunderstood monster and glimpsing what his reality is like.
Q: What is your favorite kill in Texas Chainsaw 3D ?
Kenny. The meathook should have finished him. It's very satisfying to plants a 3 foot steel hook into someone's back and then drag them back down the stairs to your lair. But nothing can compare to unleashing the monster inside and cutting them in half with a chainsaw. That's what I call a Win/Win. Whacking Daryl in the head with a hammer was good, too. Let's face it: there are no bad kills.
NOTE : I agree there are no bad kills in this movie :)
Q: What is the hardest part of playing "Leatherface" ?
It's a physically taxing role. It is easy to get caught up in the power and violence and lose sight of the actual character. It's easy to rely on the terror of the saw and forget the actual motivation for what he's doing. Leatherface is largely motivated by fear.
Kenny. The meathook should have finished him. It's very satisfying to plants a 3 foot steel hook into someone's back and then drag them back down the stairs to your lair. But nothing can compare to unleashing the monster inside and cutting them in half with a chainsaw. That's what I call a Win/Win. Whacking Daryl in the head with a hammer was good, too. Let's face it: there are no bad kills.
NOTE : I agree there are no bad kills in this movie :)
Q: What is the hardest part of playing "Leatherface" ?
It's a physically taxing role. It is easy to get caught up in the power and violence and lose sight of the actual character. It's easy to rely on the terror of the saw and forget the actual motivation for what he's doing. Leatherface is largely motivated by fear.
After playing "Leatherface" you played the title character in a short film called "The Drowned Man" in 2014. What was your experience like on that film ? Any memories you'd like to share ?
That was an AFI thesis film by Per Krogh. We shot it on 16mm film. It was low budget, but it is really an incredibly well made movie. Per is a great writer and Director. We shot the beach stuff in Malibu in March, I believe. It was cold. In one of the out-takes, a curious seal popped up behind me as I was walking back to shore. It's a shame they couldn't use it. That was a great cast and crew.
Q: Also in 2014 you played "Mountain Man" in another short film titled "Wing Nuts" . I'm from Maine and see alot of Mountain Man" Types You have a very good Mountain Man look that I feel you have naturally. Did you have to do much physically and mentally to get into that character or did the character just come to you naturally ?
That character was largely a stereotype, so I knew who he was. I still haven't seen the finished movie. It was another "help your friends" project.
That was an AFI thesis film by Per Krogh. We shot it on 16mm film. It was low budget, but it is really an incredibly well made movie. Per is a great writer and Director. We shot the beach stuff in Malibu in March, I believe. It was cold. In one of the out-takes, a curious seal popped up behind me as I was walking back to shore. It's a shame they couldn't use it. That was a great cast and crew.
Q: Also in 2014 you played "Mountain Man" in another short film titled "Wing Nuts" . I'm from Maine and see alot of Mountain Man" Types You have a very good Mountain Man look that I feel you have naturally. Did you have to do much physically and mentally to get into that character or did the character just come to you naturally ?
That character was largely a stereotype, so I knew who he was. I still haven't seen the finished movie. It was another "help your friends" project.
Q: My wife and I are Huge fans of the Sharknado franchise on SyFy and you played a background character in "Sharknado 4 : The 4th Awakens" and she will kill me if I don't ask you what it was like to be on the set of that movie and is it as crazy to shoot those scenes as it looks in the finished film ?
No sharks were harmed in the making of the movie. My scene was shot on one of the old movie ranches North of Los Angeles that was destroyed by one of the wild fires the following year. It was not an "Oilnado" as shown in the movie. It was a fun movie to make, and Anthony is a great Texas Chainsaw fan. He wanted to pay homage to the franchise, and to Gunnar after his passing. I did it because, in the script, the character's name is Gunnar. It was nice not wearing a mask, and getting to work with Caroline Williams. She is such a delight. Dog The Bounty Hunter was a pleasure to work with, too. It was his dramatic debut.
No sharks were harmed in the making of the movie. My scene was shot on one of the old movie ranches North of Los Angeles that was destroyed by one of the wild fires the following year. It was not an "Oilnado" as shown in the movie. It was a fun movie to make, and Anthony is a great Texas Chainsaw fan. He wanted to pay homage to the franchise, and to Gunnar after his passing. I did it because, in the script, the character's name is Gunnar. It was nice not wearing a mask, and getting to work with Caroline Williams. She is such a delight. Dog The Bounty Hunter was a pleasure to work with, too. It was his dramatic debut.
Q: I was looking at your filmography on IMDB.com and There is a film that is labeled as "Announced" titled "Tawny" can you give my readers an update on that film and tell us a little about it ?
I don't think they ever raised the money to make it, unfortunately. My friend, Jesse Foudray wrote it, and it's a disturbing little story. She's been the archetype of several strong female characters in a few of the scripts I've written and am currently developing. She's a talented woman.
Q: One of your latest films Befall is in Post Production can you give us an update and give us some info about the movie and your role as Albert Cross in the film ?
Befall was written and produced by Rob Archer. I didn't know Rob, but he reached out and asked me to do the role. I'm not sure where it stands as far as release. It's one of the most interesting ghost stories I've ever read. I play a terrible human being.
I don't think they ever raised the money to make it, unfortunately. My friend, Jesse Foudray wrote it, and it's a disturbing little story. She's been the archetype of several strong female characters in a few of the scripts I've written and am currently developing. She's a talented woman.
Q: One of your latest films Befall is in Post Production can you give us an update and give us some info about the movie and your role as Albert Cross in the film ?
Befall was written and produced by Rob Archer. I didn't know Rob, but he reached out and asked me to do the role. I'm not sure where it stands as far as release. It's one of the most interesting ghost stories I've ever read. I play a terrible human being.
Q: You started Bad Anger Pictures with your friend Ron Scott and your focus is on horror movies and scaring the crap out of your audience which is something that I feel is lacking in the genre today, what do you think is something that an indie film company can offers hardcore horror fans that a major studio can't offer them ?
The studios are in an awful state. They are stuck having to make movies that they think have a guaranteed return. It's not a dynamic that leads to much other than what has been done before. They will remake movies that were successful and have a built-in following, but probably very little of anything we'd recognize as new or creative. The movie business as we new it ended with broadband. Bad Anger Pictures is focused on telling stories that challenge our notions of what it is to live in a civilized society. There are wonderful stories of the Human Condition that the studios only deal with metaphorically and superficially in their block-buster fantasy comic book movies. Good, old fashioned horror movies are what we are working on. We've got a couple of sci-fi/horror flicks in the works, too.
Q: Your first film with Bad Anger Pictures was titled "Volition" from the little information that was on the website I have to say I really want to see this film. can you give us an update on it's status ?
Volition is in pre-production, and is slated to shoot in April/May of this year. It's a short that is really the pilot of a series. We will shoot it in and around Scranton, PA. I wrote it a few years ago as my buddy, Greg Philippi and I were developing a concept for a TV show in the vein of The Twilight Zone, Tales From The Dark Side, and shows like that. I know the corporations like serials with recurring characters, because they think people get more connected to them emotionally, but we don't care. We are more interested in creating compelling stories with more of a thematic thread. We hope to appeal to a more literate audience. TV has been dumbed-down to an excruciating degree. We will make this one and submit it to the short film festivals in hopes of reaching an audience that will want more.
The studios are in an awful state. They are stuck having to make movies that they think have a guaranteed return. It's not a dynamic that leads to much other than what has been done before. They will remake movies that were successful and have a built-in following, but probably very little of anything we'd recognize as new or creative. The movie business as we new it ended with broadband. Bad Anger Pictures is focused on telling stories that challenge our notions of what it is to live in a civilized society. There are wonderful stories of the Human Condition that the studios only deal with metaphorically and superficially in their block-buster fantasy comic book movies. Good, old fashioned horror movies are what we are working on. We've got a couple of sci-fi/horror flicks in the works, too.
Q: Your first film with Bad Anger Pictures was titled "Volition" from the little information that was on the website I have to say I really want to see this film. can you give us an update on it's status ?
Volition is in pre-production, and is slated to shoot in April/May of this year. It's a short that is really the pilot of a series. We will shoot it in and around Scranton, PA. I wrote it a few years ago as my buddy, Greg Philippi and I were developing a concept for a TV show in the vein of The Twilight Zone, Tales From The Dark Side, and shows like that. I know the corporations like serials with recurring characters, because they think people get more connected to them emotionally, but we don't care. We are more interested in creating compelling stories with more of a thematic thread. We hope to appeal to a more literate audience. TV has been dumbed-down to an excruciating degree. We will make this one and submit it to the short film festivals in hopes of reaching an audience that will want more.
Q : I love the Bad Anger Pictures website www.badangerpictures.com and I've been dying to ask you some questions about "Slaughter Farm" The posters that you have on the website are amazing and peak the viewers interest instantly. Did you have creative input in the posters and what makes a good movie poster in your opinion ?
I came up with the concept for the main poster for "Slaughter Farm." I always loved those super-close eyeball posters, and told the artist, Stephen Smyth, I wanted one like that, but we should rip the eyeball out of her head and throw it on the dirty barn floor. He didn't get what I meant, so I sent him a small, very simple, pencil doodle of what it should be, and he hit it out of the park. The guy is really talented. When we get some money, we are going to have him do one for "Zombie Bear Attack," and "Brains" too. A good poster will evoke an emotional reaction. It should be funny, sad, scary, tragic, exciting, heartwarming or sexually arousing; definitely not ambivalent. It can be enigmatic, but it has to have a strong point of view.
Q: I understand that you wrote and Directed Slaughter Farm and this quote appears on the site " I think I've finally written a worthy follow-up to my work as Leatherface in Texas Chainsaw." Can you talk about the quote a little and what it means ?
I've been a writer all my life. I never really wrote horror stories, and had half a dozen scripts in various stages of development, but I was struggling to come up with what fans of Texas Chainsaw Massacre might like. I believe in being true to one's art, but I also know that, in the Business of Show, you have to know your brand, and who your audience are. I wrote a couple of other horror scripts before the story of "Slaughter Farm" emerged, but I knew they weren't quite what my audience would want. I hope, after SF gets out there, we will reach an even wider audience, and they'll trust my sensibilities as a filmmaker enough to go along with me in other directions. But I didn't want to ask that of them until I've proven myself. There is a definite kinship between SF and TCM, but they very different stories.
I came up with the concept for the main poster for "Slaughter Farm." I always loved those super-close eyeball posters, and told the artist, Stephen Smyth, I wanted one like that, but we should rip the eyeball out of her head and throw it on the dirty barn floor. He didn't get what I meant, so I sent him a small, very simple, pencil doodle of what it should be, and he hit it out of the park. The guy is really talented. When we get some money, we are going to have him do one for "Zombie Bear Attack," and "Brains" too. A good poster will evoke an emotional reaction. It should be funny, sad, scary, tragic, exciting, heartwarming or sexually arousing; definitely not ambivalent. It can be enigmatic, but it has to have a strong point of view.
Q: I understand that you wrote and Directed Slaughter Farm and this quote appears on the site " I think I've finally written a worthy follow-up to my work as Leatherface in Texas Chainsaw." Can you talk about the quote a little and what it means ?
I've been a writer all my life. I never really wrote horror stories, and had half a dozen scripts in various stages of development, but I was struggling to come up with what fans of Texas Chainsaw Massacre might like. I believe in being true to one's art, but I also know that, in the Business of Show, you have to know your brand, and who your audience are. I wrote a couple of other horror scripts before the story of "Slaughter Farm" emerged, but I knew they weren't quite what my audience would want. I hope, after SF gets out there, we will reach an even wider audience, and they'll trust my sensibilities as a filmmaker enough to go along with me in other directions. But I didn't want to ask that of them until I've proven myself. There is a definite kinship between SF and TCM, but they very different stories.
To the right you will find a link to badangerpictures.com so you can keep up with all the latest updates from Dan and all his crazy adventures in film making !!
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Which brings me to my final question You are working on a Documentary titled "Dinner With Leatherface" which I think is an awesome idea, how is filming going and could you give an update on a release date or any cool tidbits of info about it?
Michael Kallio is doing a documentary about Gunnar Hansen, interviewing people who knew him. He reached out to me and asked me to talk about Gunnar, which I am always happy to do. I think it was last April we shot my piece. Gunnar was extraordinarily kind and generous to me. He was a good friend. I haven't heard what Michael is doing with the project. I should probably call him and see if he needs any help. None of us does this alone.
NOTE : Gunnar was also kind to me several years ago I sent him a letter and a custom picture for him to sign and he signed it for me and sent along a list of items he had for sale and his price list. The fact that he signed it for me Means so much to me. We are lived in the same state (Maine) and I think it's cool to tell folks this story...
Mr. Yeager Thank you so much for your time and for opening up for my readers, this interview has been such a cool experience for me. Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans and my readers ? Where can fans find you online ?
Thank you for the thoughtful questions; and to your readers, thank you for taking the time. And please, support Independent Cinema. It's crucial we drive back the corporate takeover of cinema. It's one of the last bastions of Free Expression in this crazy World. I'm not really sure where I am online. I'd google me and see what you find.
Michael Kallio is doing a documentary about Gunnar Hansen, interviewing people who knew him. He reached out to me and asked me to talk about Gunnar, which I am always happy to do. I think it was last April we shot my piece. Gunnar was extraordinarily kind and generous to me. He was a good friend. I haven't heard what Michael is doing with the project. I should probably call him and see if he needs any help. None of us does this alone.
NOTE : Gunnar was also kind to me several years ago I sent him a letter and a custom picture for him to sign and he signed it for me and sent along a list of items he had for sale and his price list. The fact that he signed it for me Means so much to me. We are lived in the same state (Maine) and I think it's cool to tell folks this story...
Mr. Yeager Thank you so much for your time and for opening up for my readers, this interview has been such a cool experience for me. Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans and my readers ? Where can fans find you online ?
Thank you for the thoughtful questions; and to your readers, thank you for taking the time. And please, support Independent Cinema. It's crucial we drive back the corporate takeover of cinema. It's one of the last bastions of Free Expression in this crazy World. I'm not really sure where I am online. I'd google me and see what you find.
This was such an amazing interview for me to get, I enjoyed learning about Mr. Yeager's past from his struggles as a Cleveland sports fan to his love of SyFy and horror movies to his time as the ICONIC Leatherface in Texas Chainsaw 3D . I really hope you enjoyed this interview and there are more to come ! Stay Humble, Stay Hungry Everyone :)