I originally trained as a dancer from the age of three. My mum would take me to every kind of dance class you could imagine. I loved it. Though after years of training, performances and competitions I ran into some problems with my joints and was advised to take it easy. I had always been shy at school but excelled in drama, so it was a no brainer for me to give it a go. My first job was a British comedy feature film ‘Pulp’ and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
indieactivity: What acting technique do you use?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I use a mix of techniques. It really depends on the moment and how I feel. Method, Stanislavsky and Meisner are my top three. Though when I sometimes recall on real memories, I find it can be a strain on my heart. The Meisner technique, listening and reacting is really one of my favourites, as it keeps you very present and engaging with your fellow cast mates. It’s a strict rule of mine, to make sure I remain present throughout the filming process.
The Official Trailer for Escape starring Sarah Alexandra Marks and Directed by Howard J, Ford
How did you get connected to the project? Did you have to audition? If you did, would still have got the part?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I was asked by Howard to take part in some test shots which I guess you could call my audition. There were quite a few of us on the day, and it really was a lot of fun. I got a real good sense of Howard’s style and energy. I knew straight away he’d be a director I’d love to work with. A few weeks after these test shots, some of us met for lunch and Howard offered me the role of Karla, having already changed some of the characters background story to suit me.
Let’s take this project you did; how did you prepare for such a role: the cast, the physicality the terrain, the climate, weather and the demands of the project?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I will always read the script over and over until I can really see my character’s wants and needs subjectively. I’ll learn my lines to the point of being able to recite them while dancing, so I can then let go of them. I work out regularly, therefore I’m always making sure I’m physically ready for anything, rather than waiting for a physical demanding role and then picking up on the training front.
How do you create the character from a script into a person?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I use everything I am given and work from there. The script and what the writer or director has personally told me. While on set and in costume, I will take in my surroundings and think about the situation my character is in before each take.
What part of the story challenged you when you read it? What drove you to get on the project?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): The amount of action, however I love a challenge and I love to be pushed. The opportunity to work with Howard was what really enticed me to take on the project.
Explain one creative choice you took on set of this production?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): There’s a scene where it’s vital I get all of the girls to listen to me. Howard wanted me to show her trait of being calm amidst the chaos, one she would have developed on the ward as a nurse. I made the choice to talk to each girl individually, looking each girl in the eye. Making them feel valued and part of something greater so we could work as a team and fight for our survival. I have seen great speakers use this technique when they talk to a room of a thousand people. Intensity and connection over volume.
You’re not new to indie films. What do you enjoy about the work that keeps you working?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I enjoy the entire process. I’m a creative soul and I thrive from being around fellow creatives. It’s a joy to be able to wake up each day and follow your dreams. Of course it comes with it’s challenges, but it’s my love for the art that keeps me going.
Give an example of a direction you received from the director during the production?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): Howard had told me to take my time when it came to a delicate monologue of mine, which really helped me go within and internalise what I was talking about, recalling on a personal memory of my own.
How did you collaborate with your cast members from scene to scene?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I would always make sure to listen and voice any worries that may arise. I’d always be there to encourage and hopefully have words of wisdom if they were needed in any given moment.
As main cast on the film, describe the feeling of responsibility that you shouldered. Where you scared? Or did it fire you up? What scenes where difficult to shoot?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): The entire shoot was one big collaboration. On any set I think you hold the responsibility to keep positive and keep morale high, which can sometimes be difficult when the days are long and challenging, but it’s very important to keep your spirits high.
What did you take away from the film production?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I left with a new profound excitement for filmmaking. Howard truly inspired me and had made filming a dream.
What do you like most about the director, and his/her collaboration with his/her team?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I love Howard’s energy, it’s infectious. He is always listening to your ideas, truly making it a collaborative process. The freedom he gives you as an actor and the ease he makes you feel between each take and during each take. He is a one of a kind, with the most fascinating stories to tell.
What is next for you?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): I have action horror, ‘River Of Blood’ in post-production which I am very very excited for. A few other titles being in release this year including ‘Witch.’ ‘The Manor’ produced by Lucas A Ferrara and a few projects in development which I’ll soon be able to talk about.
What advice do you give actors regarding what you learnt on the project?
Sarah Alexandra Marks (SAM): Always be open for anything that is coming your way. Don’t get stuck in your head, relax and enjoy yourself.
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