Steping It Up with Erik Renz

Aaron Guerra: At what age did you started dancing?

Erik Renz: My Mom said I started dancing when I was about 2 years old. She said I would just move around to the music and I would do it in front of anybody. When I was around 7 years old I performed for the first time at my 3rd grade talent show. It was also the first thing I had choreographed. Then my sister got into dance at a studio called Center Stage and I told my Mom I wanted to do the same. I started in a beginner’s class but my instructor wanted me to move up to the advanced class. I did after 3 weeks and after that year of classes; they wanted me to move up to Junior Company. This is when I think I made the biggest mistake of my life – I quit dancing for basketball, which obviously never stuck. At 15, I watched You Got Served and then I got into dance again. I started learning the dances from the instructional DVD they sold after the movie. Then I learned all the choreography from the movie and still wanted to learn more. That’s when I found Shane Sparks and Robert Hoffman III on Youtube and I learned by watching anything I could find with them. The rest is history I guess.

Aaron Guerra: Who are your influences in dancing?

Erik Renz: There are a lot of dancers that I look up to. To name a few: Robert Hoffman III, Shane Sparks, Chris Brown, Dave Scott, Mia Michaels, Joy Clift (my dance teacher), Tucker Barkley, Michael Jackson. I think there are to many to list so I’ll just stop there.

Aaron Guerra: What inspires you to create different moves?

Erik Renz: I don’t really ever know what I’m doing when I’m creating dance moves. It just happens… normally when I’m freestyling. I guess it comes up from watching my influences dance and when I see something I like, I learn it from them. After that, I just tweak it a little bit to make something that’s my own.

Aaron Guerra: Any favorite dance movies? if so, what and why?

Erik Renz: Well, You Got Served was a biggie since it ‘s what started me in dancing. Stomp the Yard was another good one. I liked this one because it was a little more rough and gritty. Another of my favorites was Step Up. I think it was the first actual dance film that wasn’t completely reliant on the dancing and brought dance into the public eye – made it more acceptable I guess? My favorite right now is Step Up 2 the Streets. I was excited to see Robert Hoffman starring in his first movie and dancing as well. Ever since You Got Served I had been watching for anything that Robert was releasing with dance in it so I could learn more from him. His style is so incredible when he mixes hip-hop with his more “classic” training and puts it to a hard rock song (like the Diary of Jane solo in the film).

Aaron Guerra: How many days/hours do your practice? Is there a routine you go through to stay in shape?

Erik Renz: If you asked my parents this I’m sure their answer would be all the time. I don’t really have a set schedule. Since I’ve taught myself all the hip-hop I know I don’t really go to a studio and train. I would say I always have some kind of music going through my head and I just dance around to it non-stop, practicing new things. I try to choreograph for about an hour most days though. That would probably fall under the “training” category. As for staying in shape – I never really worked out until about a year ago with my roommate. He put me on his lifting routine and that’s what I’ve been sticking to – Chest/ Tricep, Back/ Bicep, and Legs. Each is on a different day and you do abs everyday. I count my dancing as cardio.

Aaron Guerra: You also like to write lyrics. How did that come about?

Erik Renz: The lyrics thing was kind of a fluke. When I was 11 I lived in England with my family and they are really big into fine arts there. I was required to take a music class and my teacher, Mr. Millington, was amazing. He had a class competition for everyone in the class to form a group or solo act and we had to either make up a song ourselves (music, lyrics, etc.) and perform it or pick our favorite artist and perform one of their songs. I chose to write my own song and at that time I was really into Nelly and I wrote a rap song. I actually still remember the lyrics I wrote… My name is Erik Renz, I come from the states/ I was brought into this world in 1988/. I’ll stop there as to stop further embarrassment. Anyway, I actually won the competition and after that I just kept writing rap songs. Eventually I got a little more serious about it and have been writing R&B/ Hip-Hop types of songs.

Aaron Guerra: Is singing still in your future plans? If so, what kind of music sound/style would you get into?

Erik Renz: Singing is definitely still in my plans and I would love to create R&B/ Hip-Hop songs. I also have always wanted to blend that genre into like Rock or Indie or something –kind of like Chris Brown meets Coldplay?

Aaron Guerra: Do you use YouTube to express your art, or to promote yourself? Do you think it works both ways?

Erik Renz: Youtube wasn’t ever meant to get me anything – at least that wasn’t the plan. I remembered I had an account after watching Step Up 2, and decided that I should post some videos up just to show what I could do. I started getting lots of comments and messages after I did the Step Up 2 Finale dance. After I answered the comments and messages it just kept getting bigger and it formed a way to advertise myself. The original plan for my Youtube page was just to show I could dance. When people asked me about stuff it turned into a way to teach people and spread my love of dance – help get people inspired you know. I definitely think it works both ways – creativity and promotion - it just depends on how you use it. It’s such a powerful tool nowadays considering how people have been getting discovered (Esmee Denters, Justin Beiber, etc.) and it can definitely be a place just for art (Joseph Gordon Levitt from 10 Things I Hate About You posts his pieces on Youtube under Hitrecord – amazing stuff… true art.).

Aaron Guerra: You made a few video challenges to Miley and Mandy, currently one titled “Miley and Mandy - Still Waiting.” If they return the challenge, how would you go about doing the next one to top it off?

Erik Renz: Hmm. That’s a good question. There would definitely be some acting in this one. I love comedy and I think I would take my camera around Georgia Tech and ask random people to dance for me – now that I think about it – kind of like What the Buck did with his version. It’s more fun having more people involved. Of course the normal dancing would be in there – maybe a little mockery dance for some humor? I think I’d also do a different style, show them how versatile the ACDC is compared to the M&M cru… something along those lines? I think I’d just give it more comedy since the last 3 videos I did for ACDC were so dance strong – make it a little more fun.

Aaron Guerra: What advice do you have for aspiring dancers?

Erik Renz: If I had advice for any aspiring dancers it would be to pretend as if you know nothing. I know it sounds weird but my thoughts on dance are that you should learn as if you have never danced (in a way) and when you perform, you bring out the cockiness and the personality. I think if people are to concerned about outshining others or being the best or how they look while they are learning, then they don’t learn as much as they can. I believe you reach your best potential when you are humble. – Why would God tell us to be something if he knew it wouldn’t benefit us? Also, don’t be afraid to try new things. Dance is about breaking out of your comfort zone and letting yourself go.




It’s bird’s eye view for Amy.

Aaron Guerra: Why the album title “Bird’s Eye View”?

Amy Kuney: Here is the story behind that title: So, I was born in the Midwest in a safe community, I never saw anything out of the ordinary, and then when I was 13 my dad moved my family to Honduras to become a missionary. So I started seeing a lot of new things. It really stretched me…my emotions, my spirituality..etc. and I knew that I would never see anything the same way again. So I felt like I saw everything from a “Bird’s Eye View”. If you listen to the chorus I sing: “Oh Ive seen everything new from a birds eye view, from the clouds, now that I know all that Ive missed it’s gonna make it harder to live on the ground..”

Aaron Guerra: Your reaction when your song “All Downhill From Here” was featured on the season finale of One Tree Hill?

Amy Kuney: Haha. We have it video taped actually. I was trying to act “cool” while we were watching it but inside I was jumping up and down screaming.

Aaron Guerra:
Fans loved your song on OTH. Is it possible we might hear more?

Amy Kuney: I would love to hear another one of my songs on OTH! We’re working on it!

Aaron Guerra: Who are your influences in music?

Amy Kuney: Wow, I have a lot of them…Fiona Apple, Damien Rice (Who I just had the honor of touring with (mini tour…hah), Band of Horses, Ella Fitzgerald, Muse…the list goes on…

Aaron Guerra: Is there a one favorite song you like on the album? If so, which one and why?

Amy Kuney: Ha. I feel cocky talking about my favorite “Amy Kenney” song! But I would have to say “Appreciate your hands” is my favorite one. Honestly, I’ve cried listening to it before because it means so much to me personally. It’s about someone who leads an honest humble life…is never noticed, is never appreciated until I meet them, and promise to “appreciate their hands”. It’s a sensual song, a little dark, and to some, a little dramatic but I love it.

Aaron Guerra: At what age did you l earn to play piano, guitar and sing?

Amy Kuney: I learned classical piano at age 4 or 5, guitar at age 16, and I started singing about 3 years ago. I wrote a bunch of songs and figured I didn’t want anyone else to sing them so I just started singing!

Aaron Guerra: What inspires you to write songs?

Amy Kuney: Wow…everything. Mostly stories from friends, family, television and books. I read a lot of books and the way authors talk in their books, or describe things. Authors really inspire me to be more creative with my description and story telling. I want to say something in a way that it’s never been said before.

Aaron Guerra
: What’s been the experience playing at cafes and such?

Amy Kuney: Well every singer wants to play stadiums of course…Haha. But you have to start somewhere, and I love the more intimate experience. I’m less nervous in smaller places where I get to actually meet and talk to everyone there.

Aaron Guerra:
If you weren’t doing music as a career, what would your ideal profession be?

Amy Kuney: I think I would want to be an author.

Aaron Guerra: What would you like to achieve in the music business?

Amy Kuney: To be completely honest, I want to be able to support myself, living comfortably, and do what I love to do…and that’s write/perform my music!




Sinani expresses on YouTube.

Aaron Guerra: You’re starting a YouTube Vlogging account. Is this a new outlet as an actor to express yourself in an artistic way?

Jonathan Sinani: Personally, I do feel that youtube is a great outlet to express myself in a healthy artistic way. I can reach and broadcast myself
to viewers all over the world. Its a great online tool, that I feel should be taken advantage of.

Aaron Guerra: What do you think of today’s social networks like MySpace. Do you like it how everything is so fast now? Is this an advantage to network with other talents?

Jonathan Sinani: Myspace is amazing, its a perfect personal/professional network to communicate. The best part is that it’s fast, you can communicate instantly with various people. I do consider myspace a great place to network and meet other talents in the industry, I’ve met people like Travis Aaron Wade, and Adam Bouska through myspace. All wonderful and very talented people, if I may say so myself.

Aaron Guerra: Who is someone in the entertainment that you look up to, and why?

Jonathan Sinani: There is a lot of people in the entertainment that I look up to. Personally, I really look up to Nancy Rancourt for her inspiration as a human being and talent. For the wonderful and beautiful woman that she is, and her amazing courage and determination. Also for her always letting me know how beautiful I am on the outside as well as the inside. She rocks. Travis Aaron Wade is another person I look up to for his personal struggles and determination. He is a great man, with so much talent.

Aaron Guerra: Ten years from now, what do you see yourself doing?

Jonathan Sinani: Ten years from now I see myself making movies and doing what I love entertaining people. Hopefully by then I will have covered some ground in the industry.

Aaron Guerra: Do you have other talents you’d like to share?

Jonathan Sinani: Other talents, I really love to dance. I’ve taken dance classes in Spain since I was young and its another outlet for me to express myself artistically. I love it because it makes me feel so free and invincible. It’s an amazing emotional feeling. Another thing is that I love languages, and speak Spanish as well as Bulgarian. As an artist the most import thing to me is communication, just now I can do it in three different languages.

Aaron Guerra: Everyone has a soundtrack tune to their life. What’s yours?

Jonathan Sinani: The soundtrack tune of my life would have to be the song called ” Shell Of The Universe” by Nancy Rancourt. It’s an amazing song, that expresses a lot of things about me.


Aaron Guerra: What dream role would you love to have?

Jonathan Sinani: My dream role would be to portray a character with deep cathartic meaning. A character that just expresses everything I’ve been through in life, so that I can let it go with the character. That would be an amazing role to perform.

Aaron Guerra: There’s talk you’re moving to LA next year? What are your thoughts on moving to the big city of glitz and glamour?

Jonathan Sinani: Hollywood hear I come, whatch yourself! hehe It’s a big step in my life and career, but it’s a step I’ve been dying to do ever since I was little. Therefore, I’m very excited for the big move, and know it will be a positive move, because I have hope and faith in everything I do.

Aaron Guerra: Which actor would you love to work with?

Jonathan Sinani: I’d love to work with a lot of actors, but I’d have to say it would be amazing to work with the Jonas Brothers, because not only can they sing but they are very talented actors. Also it seems like they are fun to work with. You never know, maybe one day I will, everything is possible.

Aaron Guerra: Any thoughts on a possible reality show?

Jonathan Sinani: Nothing is out of the question at this point. Once again I’m an actor, so anything that allows me to express myself, is a major plus. So lets see what happens.




Kevin goes into protection program.


Aaron Guerra: How did the “Princess Protection Program” come about? And who do you play?

Kevin Schmidt: It came about like every Disney audition I’ve had over the years. A stressful wait on the 21st floor of the Disney Channel Building haha! I play “Bull” a popular kid who thinks he makes high school cool. My job is to put Demi and Selena through the “haze”.

Aaron Guerra: What do you look for when looking for roles?

Kevin Schmidt: A character arc! A reason I’m supposed to be in the story. So many roles have zero substance, if there’s no ability for me to get into a characters skin - I tend to shy away.

Aaron Guerra: You’re also in “The Alyson Stone Project.” How’s that coming along?

Kevin Schmidt: I’m in front of, and behind the lens on the “ASP”. It’s my baby. Directorial Debut. I’m excited to get it released and work on more!

Aaron Guerra: Having a youtube channel, is it another outlet for you to express yourself as an actor or to interact with fans? Are you ever afraid that what you post on youtube can affect your acting opportunaties?

Kevin Schmidt: I’m a real person. I make mistakes, I’ve broken laws… I’ll never claim to be perfect. Even sane! The YOUTUBE Channel gives me the chance to express myself how I choose to. No strings attached.

Aaron Guerra: Has the entire process of becoming an actor and getting work been hard?

Kevin Schmidt: It’s a viscous cycle actors put themselves through time and time again. Pour yourself into a role and get rejected. Of course it’s hard, anything worthwhile is. That whats makes you appreciate everything along the way.

Aaron Guerra: What helps you keep striving to reach your goals in life?

Kevin Schmidt: The subtle rewards that show themselves along the way…

Aaron Guerra: It’s not un noticed that you’ve lost weight, what motivated you?

Kevin Schmidt: I wanted to make a change. I never felt like a chubby kid. I love being active, I was quite the diversified athlete as a kid but I couldn’t seem to keep weight off. I decided to change what I was doing and put myself on a schedule. The food I eat tastes better, my body feels great - I feel amazing! What other motivation do you need?

Aaron Guerra: Has losing weight helped you obtain more roles?

Kevin Schmidt: It’s been about the same. I wanted those leading roles when I was heavier, I felt like I understood the scenes and moments… but I was kept from them. I love the new challenges I’m handed in the roles I go out for now.

Aaron Guerra: What was the biggest rejection you’ve faced in your career? How did you surpass it?

Kevin Schmidt: It’s been about the same. I wanted those leading roles when I was heavier, I felt like I understood the scenes and moments… but I was kept from them. I love the new challenges I’m handed in the roles I go out for now.

Aaron Guerra: What advice would you give other struggling actors?

Kevin Schmidt: Stay positive and keep at it. Know that passion will always succeed.




Lucy not dueting with dad. Ever.

Aaron Guerra: You have an internet talk show at TalkShoe. What made you want to do this?

Lucy Walsh: When I was a kid I would sit for hours with a big silver radio and record tapes of me telling stories and interviewing myself in different voices. I guess my internet talkshow is just an extension of that. I like to hear myself talk.

Aaron Guerra: What inspires you to write music?

Lucy Walsh: Getting the boys I like to have crushes on me. That’s my song-writing inspiration.

Aaron Guerra: How would you describe your sound/style for the record your working on now?

Lucy Walsh: I dont know what Im doing, I just make music I like. I play alot of my songs at the piano, and the record im recording now reflects that. Afew artists I draw from are Cyndi Lauper, Sarah McLaughlin and Keane.

Aaron Guerra: What’s your favorite song off your album, and why?

Lucy Walsh: My favorite song changes constantly. At the moment I really like a new song of mine called ‘Sleeping on Your Arm.’ Im currently recording it, just wrote it like a week ago.

Aaron Guerra: Who would you love to collaborate with?

Lucy Walsh: I’m lucky to be collaborating with someone whos been on my wishlist, John Vesely aka Secondhand Serenade. I sang his song ‘Fall for You’ on my mtv show Rock the Cradle, and now he’s releasing an acoustic version with me singing with him. Very cool

Aaron Guerra: Are there any plans to duet with your dad?

Lucy Walsh: No duets with dad. Ever

Aaron Guerra: If you had to remake a song, what would it be? why?

Lucy Walsh: I will be releasing my own version of ‘Heart of the Matter’ by Don Henley, which I also sang on Rock the Cradle. I just finished the recording, so listen out for that!

Aaron Guerra: What kind of acting role would you consider taking if you had the chance to pick something you liked?

Lucy Walsh: I have always wanted to be an actress, and I’ve done some music videos and independant films. Ive been in theatre study and improv classes my whole life. A role I wouldve loved to do is Marie Antoinetten the Sophia Coppola film. (Kirsten Dunst beat me out unfortunately)

Aaron Guerra: Will you be able to tour once your album is out?

Lucy Walsh: The record and touring go hand in hand…we like to see an artist live whos record we’re really into…so thats really the only thing on my mind at this point…getting my record finished and getting on the road. There is nothing better than touring in my opinion,,,play a live show, get on the bus and wake up in a new town to do it all over again. If you want to see me live in your city, do us all a favor and help me expand…pass my music and myspace onto all your friends.

Aaron Guerra: Any advice to aspiring singers or people who would love to get into the entertainment business?

Lucy Walsh: Just do it because you LOVE the arts, and the rest will fall where it may…its seriously insane, so i honestly recommend moving to Wyoming to become a dentist instead




Heights leaves door open for Rob.

Interested in acting by the time he went to high school, he was cast as Othello in the production “Othello.” Later went to American Academy of Dramatic Arts and now is known for his role of Charles on ABC Family’s Lincoln Heights. Get to know Rob in this interview and see what he has to say about wanting to work with Christopher Nolan and his new project on the web.

Aaron Guerra: Have you started filming season 3 of Lincoln Heights? IF so, how’s it been like so far?

Rob Adamson: We started filming the third season of Lincoln Heights back in April. We are about two weeks from wrapping, and so far, its been a very exciting season. I think Lincoln Heights has taken a unique turn, one that I hope, but to be honest, have no doubt the audience will respond positively to. The show, to be frank, just gets better and better every season.

Aaron Guerra: What do you expect from this new season after last season when your character got into a car accident?

Rob Adamson: My expectations have certainly been taken for a spin. The writers have definitely chosen a direction that will be a surprise. I’ve been saying through the course of shooting, “What are you guys cookin’ up?” Everything was a constant surprise, whereas, last season I kind of had an idea of the specific direction of the character, without knowing of course, the exact details of the content. It opens the door, creatively, as well as through the eyes of the audience to experience that shocked, cliffhanger sort of feeling.

Aaron Guerra: You have a new TV movie coming out called “Princess Protection Program.” What can you tell us about it, and your role as Donnie?

Rob Adamson: The movie is exactly what the title implies, Princess Protection Program is about a young princess who’s country is on the brink of war, and who, for her own safety, must be protected until the dispute can be resolved.

Donnie was an interesting character to play. I’ve never played a character with absolutely no redeeming qualities. That’s the way I wanted to portray him at least. I would love to think that in this world people learn their lesson and grow, but unfortunately, I’ve come to realize that some people really are just too dense. Maybe you’ve met a few your self. (Certain Teen Idols? Male Models?) Just kidding, I love models.

Aaron Guerra: What kind of research did you have to do in order to play Donnie?

Rob Adamson: I watched One Tree Hill.

Aaron Guerra: Are there any memorable memories on set of the “Princess” movie?

Rob Adamson: Many. Some I can talk about and some I cannot. Just kidding, we all had a fantastic time. We filmed in Puerto Rico, it was beautiful and when we weren’t working we were enjoying each other’s company and getting to know one another. I got a chance to meet some pretty incredible locals too. I love that place.

Aaron Guerra: If you could choose a role from a movie/tv, what would it be?

Rob Adamson: Dick Grayson in the third Batman film with Chris Nolan. Come on, I’m perfect for it right? Christian Bale’s been my favorite actor since I was a kid, so I’d love to get a chance to kick Harvey Two Face’s ass with him. RIP Heath Ledger.

Aaron Guerra: You’re doing a web series called “Cause We’re Family.” How did that come about?

Rob Adamson: I was sitting at a bar in Marina Del Rey with a few friends after a day at the beach and in walks Tony Longo from Angels in the Outfield. We yelled him over to hang out and have a drink with us, and him and I just struck up the most odd, and entertaining conversation I’ve ever had. We came up for the concept of “Cause We’re Family” right there. I game him my number expecting to never hear from him again, but he called me the next day, and by the next weekend we started filming.

Aaron Guerra: Do you plan on producing/directing any feature films in the future?

Rob Adamson: I would love to have the opportunity to Produce/Direct, but I feel like I should get my feet a little more wet in my first passion, which is acting.

Aaron Guerra: What do you think of today’s digital social networking sites like MySpace? Do you connect more to fans? is it easier for you to get feedback from projects that you do?

Rob Adamson: It’s definitely a quick fix for attention, that’s for sure. I’ve realized from a young age that everything was moving toward a purely digital and single platform environment. Broadband speeds have finally reached a capacity capable of handling massive streaming support. You can download an HD movie as you watch it now. While a part of me feels like all this online communication neglects good old fashion human contact and communication. It’s still an exciting revolution to watch.

Aaron Guerra: What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?

Rob Adamson: Doing a movie with Chris Nolan and Guillermo Del Toro, back to back. I’m putting it out there. Wish me luck!

You already have the luck, Rob! Keep up the good work!




Kate’s first on MySpace!

Kate Voegele is quickly becoming one of music history’s biggest stars. Being signed by Tom Anderson at MySpace opened a lot of doors to this Ohio native. Her debut album “Don’t Look Away” impressed listeners, and has appeared numerous of times on the hit TV show, The CW’s One Tree Hill playing Mia, a shy keyboardist-turned-solo singer. Not only that, she’s also going to school online while touring on the road.

Aaron Guerra: On the upcoming Disney Mania album, you sing the song “When you wish upon a star.” Out of all Disney songs, what made you decide to sing that one?

Kate Voegele: I have always loved that song. Some of my favorite memories are the trips we took to disney world so I was very excited when they asked me to do a song on the CD. My producer Marshall Altman put together a very cool rendition of the song. It was a blast!

Aaron Guerra: Where does your inspiration come from to write such beautiful songs such as “It’s Only life.”

Kate Voegele: Almost all of my songs just come from my every day experiences. I co-wrote that song with Jim McGorman and we put the chords down in less than 2 hours. I came home from LA and wrote the lyrics and then Marshall Altman produced it and I was so happy with the final cut. It’s just basically about not being afraid to take risks and to keep trying even when things don’t go the way you had hoped or planned.

Aaron Guerra: Any tips or advice for songwriters?

Kate Voegele: My only advice for songwriters would be to write down every idea you have in a little journal or notebook. Even if it’s just a word or phrase you like, write it down so you can come back to it later. You never know when that idea may blossom into a song.

Aaron Guerra How was it working with Hilarie Burton (Peyton Sawyer) on One Tree Hill?

Kate Voegele: Hilarie Burton was amazing to work with on One Tree Hill. Everyone at OTH was so welcoming and helpful. It was definitely one of the best experiences of my life.

Aaron Guerra Are there any crazy fan encounters you remember, like someone asking you to sign something really weird or giving you a funny gift?

Kate Voegele: So far all of my fans have been wonderful. I am always amazed at how nice and supportive everyone has been. My little sister said she did see someone lick the tour bus when she came to visit me….I guess that’s pretty strange!!!

Aaron Guerra: Will you be touring internationally in the near or distant future?

Kate Voegele: I would love to tour internationally. Right now my schedule is pretty full but maybe later this year or next year!

Aaron Guerra: Favorite place to shop?

Kate Voegele: love shopping at vintage stores and there’s a graet little store in Wilmington that i love called “edge of urge.”

Aaron Guerra: What is your absolute favorite song to perform and why?

Kate Voegele: It’s hard to choose a favorite but I really love performing “wish you were” because i think a lot of people can relate to that song.




Blake’s 2nd chance for Sisterhood?

Blake Lively comes from an acting family with her own unique talent. She is known best for her film debut of Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants playing soccer player Bridget. After being at the top of her school and participated in the National Show Choir, Lively is now ready to take Hollywood by storm with her upcoming dark romantic comedy of Elvis and Anabelle and a new horror movie Simon Says that was produced by her father who’s also an actor himself. Check out her new movie Accepted out in theatres now!

Aaron Guerra: A lot of fans ask this question: Will there be a sequel to “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” and will you come back to you role of Bridget if you sign on?

Blake Lively: I would love more than anything to do a sequel! We’ve heard sequel murmurs hear and there, but as far as I know , there is none in the works yet. But, if you keep buying DVDs there just might be!

Aaron Guerra: How was working with Mike Vogel, your on screen love interest Eric Richman?

Blake Lively: It was wonderful! He’s a really nice guy . He always teased me for loving Britney spears =( but we had a good time. HIs wife is great too . She is very very sweet!

Aaron Guerra: Have you kept in touch with your “Sisterhood” co-stars?

Blake Lively: Yes! We’re all very busy , but the great thing about the friendships that we made is that we can go without speaking for a few months and then when we do see eachother or call one another it’s like no time has gone by at all. We all know how crazy are lives are and how much we love eachother , so there is never any pressure or hard feelings.

Aaron Guerra: What was your experience working on the set of “Accepted”? Was it different from other stuff you’ve done?

Blake Lively: Accepted was pretty much one big 3 month party! Every single member of that production was so nice and fun and great to work with! It seems like on a set with over 100 people there must be at least one bad egg , but there was not one person that I didn’t enjoy! As far as the cast , we would have dance parties and board game battles in eachothers trailers , or intense debates in the hair and make up trailer on everything from wars ,and Hurrican Katrina, to Brangelina! = ) We would come to work everyday and surrounded by a half pipe, tiki bar, pool, etc.. what more could you ask for?!! And they called that work?! We would just hang out on set all the time, how could you not?! Almost every scene was improve so every take was different which made it fun and interesting. How lucky was I to get to work with sooo many funny people?! I laughed my butt off all day every day! It was such an amazing AMAZING experience!!

Aaron Guerra: You mentioned before you had a one day shoot for the movie “Simon Says.” Can you tell me about your character and what you did in the scene?

Blake Lively: Simon Says is a fun teen horror movie that my dad produced . My boyfriend, Kelly and I went up to visit set and while we were there my dad said , “Hey why don’t you be in the movie!” So we said “Great!” I played a girl named “Jenny” that is a part of the next generation teens that may get caught up in Simon’s murdering game. We had a few lines and the honor of working with Crispin Glover (which was incredible) and that’s about all I did. It was fun and I hear that the movie is really cool!

Aaron Guerra: In your new film, “Elvis and Anabelle,” your character dies and comes back to life. Whoa! What made you want to do this film that is so different from your other characters?

Blake Lively: I think that all actors that are in productions for the art and challenge , rather than the fame and money , try to play different roles. “Elvis and Anabelle” is one of the best scripts I have ever read! Not only is it an amazing and touching story , but the charecters are so layered and interesting. One of the biggest attracions for me was that the role of Anabelle is such a strong person. Most female roles are written to either compliment the powerful male role , or to be a pretty piece of flesh for the audiences’s viewing pleasure. Neither of which I would like to make a career off of . So, with such a great character and story and cast , how could I not want to be in that film?!

Aaron Guerra: What is the main premise of “Elvis and Anabelle”?

Blake Lively: “Elvis and Anabelle” is about a young mortician (Max Minghella) , who takes care of his disabled father (Joe Mantagna) since his mother’s suicide , and a Texas beauty queen (me) , who is dying of bulemia , all the while trying to cope with her over obsessive stage mom (Mary Steenburgen) and her sexually abusive stepfather (Keith Carradine). It is their story of how they overcome their dark pasts and find an amazing love. It is such a beautiful and romantic story . I am so blessed to have been a part of that film. It really is something very special.

Aaron Guerra: If you had a role to play in a movie, what would it be and why?

Blake Lively: I would love to be a a period piece film! Something from the Elizabethan era , or a 1930’s murder mystery. My all time goal is to be in a Baz Lurhman film. His films are like nothing I have ever seen! They are masterpieces!!!

Aaron Guerra: Are there thoughts on producing/directing your own movie project?

Blake Lively: In the future I would love to be on the other side of the camera. For now I’m still learning how my side works = )

Aaron Guerra: Are there any plans of working with your siblings in a movie one day?

Blake Lively: I would love to !!! It might be a problem though because I get “hacked” (a southern expression for embarrassed) around them. ={ They are so soo talented and experienced that I get soo shy whenever I have them help me on a project! My sister Robyn worked with me for about 10 hours a day, every day for a few weeks before I left to do “Elvis and Anabelle” . I ended up throwing pencils at her when she would try to make me do a line for her. = ) I’m naturally a verrry shy person. So, to answer your question , if I did have the honor of working with one of them, the director just might kill me because it would be so hard to get any acting out of me! = )




Amber is stuck on Buffy.

Amber Benson is a young entrepreneur; actress, writer, director and producer. She’s been acting professionally over fifteen years, but is best known for her acclaimed role of Tara Maclay on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. After leaving the show, she began working on a different medium: animation film Ghosts of Albion for BBC with co-creator and friend Christopher Golden. They both share other writing credits with the successful comics of BTVS: Willow & Tara and last year’s release of the short novel The Seven Whistlers. She also released two of her first independent films Chance and Lovers, Liars and Lunatics through her production company, Benson Entertainment. Check out her upcoming projects: Kiss the Bride, Strictly Sexual, and The Bluetooth Virgin! She definitely has a bright career ahead of her!

Aaron Guerra: What upcoming projects are you currently working on?

Amber Benson: I have just completed work on a couple of independent films: Kiss the Bride, The Bluetooth Virgin and Strictly Sexual.

Aaron Guerra: Your career skyrocketed playing Tara Maclay on “Buffy”! What attracted you to the role of Tara, and did you know it was going to build up a huge fan base?

Amber Benson: I thought Tara was an interesting charcter from the very beginning, but I had no idea that she was going to be anything except a two episode friend for Willow. Little did I know that she would become such an iconic character.

Aaron Guerra: You continued the Buffyverse as a writer for the comic books featuring Willow and Tara with author Christopher Golden. How did that come about? What was the idea behind this?

Amber Benson: I was introduced to Chris by the young woman who ran both of our websites, Little Willow. He asked if I would be interested in collaborating on a Willow and Tara comic for Darkhorse. We both loved the characters so much, we wanted to continue their story a little bit.

Aaron Guerra: I proudly own the novel “Ghost of Albion: Witchery,” signed by you and Mr. Golden! Seeing that you guys have worked together, was this another chance to write a completely new universe/story?

Amber Benson: We were approached by the BBC to create a kinda Jane Austin meets Buffy animated show for their Cult Site, but we felt like that would be kinda derivitive. Instead, we pitched them the siblings from The Ghosts of Albion, and they loved it. So, that’s how we ended up diving head first into a completely new universe.

Aaron Guerra: You’ve written, directed and produced “Chance” and “Lovers, Liars and Lunatics.” What have been your experiences working on these projects? Any new learning experiences?

Amber Benson: I really learned from both projects that Filmmaking is a collaborative effort, and that you have to implicitly trust the people you’ve chosen to be around you.

Aaron Guerra: What inspires you to write two completely stories such as “Chance” & “Lovers…”?

Amber Benson: I don’t know where the ideas come from. I like to think in Jungian terms, that there’s a collective unconscious out there that we all just tap into to find our stories. Usually, I just sit down and they come pouring out of me. I’m never quite sure what they are going to be until they happen.

Aaron Guerra: How did Benson Entertainment come about? Is this where you’ll express your creative process? What can we expect from the company in the future?

Amber Benson: It’s really just the moniker for my production company. Lately, I’ve been moving away from doing my own stuff, so I don’t have anything else on the slate in the near future.

Aaron Guerra: If you were given the chance to play a Hollywood legend, who would you portray, and why?

Amber Benson: I love Jean D’Arc. I’m a little old for it now, and it’s been done so often that I don’t think it’s in my cards to play her.

Aaron Guerra: What advice would you give to aspiring writers/filmmakers in the industry?

Amber Benson: Perserverence is key. And as Bette Davis once said… you gotta have a really thick skin.

Aaron Guerra: How can we help fundraise Benson Entertainment feature films in the future?

Amber Benson: As I said, we are winding Benson Entertainment down, but we appreciate all the wonderful love and support we’ve received during the past few years. I truly have the coolest fans in the whole world.




A Sleepover with Sean Faris

Aaron Guerra: What is the movie “Forever Strong” about, and who do you play?

Sean Faris: Forever Strong is about a rugby player named Rick Penning who is my character and his rocky relationship with his father. His father is also the coach of his schools rivalry and they have to play each other.

Aaron Guerra: You’ve been a guest star on hit tv series like “Even Stevens,” “Smallville,” “One Tree Hill” and “Boston Public.” Do you think these shows opened up a lot more opportunities in your career?

Sean Faris: Being on these tv series has really opened up more doors for me. It lets directors and producers see me in action and I get to meet alot of high up people in television.

Aaron Guerra: Are there any plans of producing/directing your own projects?

Sean Faris: I would love to produce, direct or even write for movies that is actually one of my main goals I want to accomplish in my carrer.

Aaron Guerra: If you were to play a Hollywood legend, who would it be and why?

Sean Faris: If I was to play a hollywood legend I would love to play Marlon Brando he is such a success story and my favorite actor so I would be honored to play him.

Aaron Guerra: How do you prepare yourself when auditioning for a movie?

Sean Faris: Before I audition I actually have this little stuffed frog that I have had since I was little and I kiss it for good luck. It seems to have been working so I will stick with that. Other than that I study my lines like crazy and take long deep breaths.

Aaron Guerra: What roles would you like to challenge yourself in the future?

Sean Faris: I think playing some type of political figure would be most challenging for me cause I really do not understand politics so that would be a fun experience.


Aaron Guerra: Who is the one actor you’d like to work with?

Sean Faris: If I could work with one actor it would have to be Tom Hanks cause he is another one of my inspirations and the reason I got into acting.

Aaron Guerra: Do you keep any suvenirs from movie sets?

Sean Faris: I really only keep like the clothes I got to wear and little things that caught my eye but nothing glamorous.

Aaron Guerra: What advice do you have for aspiring actors?

Sean Faris: Anybody who wants to become an actor I would say keep pushing and never stop because one day you may just get your big break.

Aaron Guerra: any upcoming projects you’re working on? if so, what can you tell us?

Sean Faris: Other than Forever Strong I am also working on a new movie called Brooklyn to Manhattan so make sure to look out for them!




AUTHOR

  • profileMy name is Aaron. I live in the Bay Area and I'm 26. I love movies, books and music. It's how I identify in life. I'm also a web designer, and communications major.

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