- Bernard Rose directs the movie so how did you find him as a filmmaker?
Bernard is a genius. I have always watched his movies and wanted to work with him. All the dialogue in Two Jacks is improvised which I loved doing. I also play American, so I decided to create a character and not come out of it all day on set which was really fun.
I felt like such a fake at the end of the shoot when I started speaking in my British accent and all the crew thought I was pretending to be English!
Bernard is very supportive of actors, His way of working is so unique and totally liberating. He really gives you a free rein to experiment but at the same time has complete control of the situation which I found very relaxing.
- It is a great cast which includes Sienna Miller, Billy Zane and Danny Huston so how did you find working alongside them?
Fab! I feel very lucky to have had such great co stars. Each and everyone one bringing a wealth of experience and talent.
- During your career we have seen you work in both TV & movies so how do the two mediums compare/differ?
Hmmm, I think it really depends on the project but in my experience there is more room for experimentation on a movie.
Which is exciting as an actor. I try to take each project with a totally fresh approach as that's the wonderful thing about what I get to do, each job is totally different and new.
- I was also reading that you run a production company, Rosebud Pictures, so what made you step away from being in front of the camera? How much is producing and even directing something that you are keen to pursue?
I think its just been a natural progression for me...I love making films and acting is only a part of that process, so much happens before the actors even come onboard and then so much more when they have finished and gone on to their next job.
It is really wonderful being able to stay with a project from its conception till it is out there being watched by an audience...I want to be part of the whole process!
I also love being able to choose the stories I want to tell...but I have no desire to direct-yet! haha!!!
- Finally what is next for you?
I have just finished filming a really great British thriller called The Power, I play a feisty Irish publisher, it was great to get a chance to use my Gaelic roots!
And this week I am recording Comic Illusions alongside John Sessions (amongst a fab all star cast) for BBC Radio, I haven't laughed as much in as long as I can remember!!!
I then go to New York to finish filming Patient 001 in September, Its a really tragic love story and an amazing role, I get to play a woman who's journey we follow over 20 years of her life.
Then I go to South Africa to start Age of Honour (2nd part of the war trilogy) in November!
- Many thanks for taking the time out to answer my questions.
You are most welcome
FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw