Andrew Jackson first appeared in The Keys of Christmas. That was the biggest production he had ever been on. In his scene, he was yelled at a lot of patrons to leave the club. “I worked in security, and I tapped into that part of my job, and I know how to bring out that genuine rage next thing I know, I noticed how scared people were. I was able to do it take after take. Afterward, people came up to me telling me how scared they were because I am a very sweet guy, but it came naturally.” says Andrew.
indieactivity: What acting technique do you use?
Andrew Jackson (AJ): I was taught at two different acting schools Katt Shea On Camera acting and Dustin Felder Acting Studio
How did you get connected to the project? Did you have to audition? If you did, would still have got the part?
Andrew Jackson (AJ): I knew Elisabeth previously. We did a project called Induced Effect back in 2017. When we met we clicked and we have been friends ever since.
How did you prepare for such a role: the cast, the physicality the terrain, the climate, weather, and the demands of the project?
AJ: With my character, it took a lot of practice. I had to tap into my personal feelings and experiences. When I saw the character I saw a lot of myself in James. With the help of Elizabeth, everything went smoothly.
How do you create the character from a script into a person?
AJ: I worked on a Short film called Decisions where I played the role of a step-father that was fed up with the step-son. Before we started shooting, we went through a character therapy session where the director would ask us questions (as our characters) about how we feel about each other as if we were in real family therapy. It was very effective in our process and preparation.
What part of the story challenged you when you read it? What drove you to get on the project?
AJ: The timing of certain things being done between my character and Elizabeth’s character. When I saw the character I felt I could give the character my own experiences so I felt that was a benefit.
You’re not new to indie films. What do you enjoy about the work that keeps you working?
AJ: The Hustle! When working on indie films a lot of the time you have to do without. So the fact that you have to go without certain things but you have the other actors there that just want to act and they have that love, brings the cast and crew closer together. I love it!
What do you like most about the director and his/her collaboration with his/her team?
AJ: I love the fact that everyone was on the same page. Everyone was a team-player and we all had great chemistry.
What is next for you?
AJ: I have a project coming up called Whitter Boulevard. It is a drama based out of Los Angeles. I am very excited about it.
What advice do you give actors regarding what you learned on the project?
AJ: Always be open to trying new techniques on doing things in a scene. It’s not about you, it’s about the film.
Tell us what you think of the interview with Andrew Jackson. What do you think of it? What ideas did you get? Do you have any suggestions? Or did it help you? Let’s have your comments below and/or on Facebook or Instagram! Or join me on Twitter.
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