Richard Neil talks “Fonda” the unconventional shrink in Alex Haughey’s “Prodigy”

Savannah Liles and Richard Neil in Alex Haughey’s The Prodigy

In Prodigy, an unconventional psychologist takes the case of a dangerous, young genius, engaging the girl in a battle of wits, he uncovers the supernatural power she possesses… and reveals that her life hangs in the balance.

A secret branch of the military calls upon psychologist James Fonda to take the case of a dangerous patient, nine-year-old Ellie. As their session begins, the young girl dissects Dr. Fonda’s unconventional methods, revealing her genius-level intellect. Only by challenging her to a battle of wits does Fonda begin to unravel the supernatural mystery surrounding Ellie — a deadly secret that threatens to destroy them both.

That’s the synopsis of The Prodigy, starring Richard Neil, which has just hit VOD.

We speak to Neil, whose other credits include Veronica Mars and All My Children, about his new leading role.

indieactivity: When did your acting career kick off?
Richard: I started acting in my freshman year at UCSB, but didn’t start professionally until I graduated from The Neighborhood Playhouse in New York, where I studied with Sanford Meisner.

indieactivity: And why movies? What was it about movies that had you fixed on building a career around making them?
Richard: I’ve always enjoyed films, and have become a bit of a film geek. All kinds of movies. From watching them on TV, James Cagney or The Marx Brothers or a John Ford western, or a Hitchcock. It always seemed like it would be a kick to do that. The creation of an imaginary world. Escapism. A good story. I enjoy a good film and I love collaborating with very creative people. They are fascinating, and it’s fun to play. What a way to make a living.

Richard Neil in Alex Haughey’s The Prodigy

indieactivity: Most cite “Star Wars” as one of the films that spurred them towards a career in the industry. What film was it for you?
Richard: Earliest inspiration was probably the work of James Cagney. A movie like The Roaring Twenties. But I remember when I studied at A.C.T. in San Francisco, they showed On The Waterfront, and I was just mesmerized. Brando.  I then wanted to see everything he’d ever done. Last Tango In Paris was pretty amazing. I wasn’t sure how much was acting, but he seemed so incredibly present and full of life. And so natural and compelling.

indieactivity: What was the first thing you appeared in?
Richard: I did a couple of soaps in New York. I shot All My Children. It was shot in Brooklyn, and I got to work with Harold E. Rollins, who was great in the movie, Ragtime.

indieactivity: And how do you think you’ve improved as an actor since?
Richard: Well, I would hope because I’ve lived more, that I can bring more depth to my work. I trust myself more and don’t have to work so hard. I can relax, and know that the emotion will be there.

indieactivity: Is there a sequence in the latest movie, The Prodigy, that you’re truly proud of, one you can genuinely step back from and say ‘wow, that looks great’!?
Richard: I think my scene where I reveal my past tragedy to the patient, Ellie. I tell a story from my past. It’s a monologue. And I felt I could let the story tell itself, and the words would bring up the necessary emotion. I felt good about that.

indieactivity: How did you get cast? Audition?
Richard: Yes, an audition, and then a call back.

Richard Neil and Savannah Liles in a scene from The Prodigy

indieactivity: Did you develop a backstory for your character – if even in your mind – before shooting?
Richard: Well, it’s pretty much written in the script. But I discussed it with the directors, about my path up to that moment where the film starts. So, yes, I did have a backstory.

indieactivity: Where did you shoot the movie? Do you believe the city is as much a star of the movie as the human players?
Richard: We primarily shot in a converted animal shelter out in Riverside, California. That location was in and of itself a bit creepy. So it learnt itself to the needed oppressive atmosphere. No slight to Riverside here. There are many beautiful parts of the city, just not in that former shelter.

indieactivity: What do you hope audiences get from the movie?
Richard: That no matter how dire and desperate things can get, there’s always the possibility of recovery and a new start. Don’t give up!

indieactivity: What’s the dream project?
Richard: Just to keep working with talented actors and directors on wonderfully original scripts – and in beautiful locations. Nothing beats traveling for work.