I received an email two days ago from production requesting my participation in publicizing my movie "Bertie the Brilliant" now airing on PBS and recently selected for the Academy qualifying festival HollyShorts. SAG-AFTRA cleared me to do this interview, because the production is not struck.
All great stuff, but this is the first time I have ever had to do publicity for a film. And I realized during all those years in acting school, I was never taught "how" to interview. If I do this interview well, Mira Mira may hire me for upcoming film projects; therefore, doing this interview gives my career options.
Here's what I'm trying:
1) It will be a Zoom interview with the entire cast and some key crew. Therefore, I will write down everyone's name, credit and title and place it on the wall in front of my computer so, if I briefly forget who is who, I can glance at their names. Example: I don't want to call my fellow actors by their character names. I want to refer to them by their given names.
2) I will do some light research on the interviewer: past interviews, their media outlet, etc. This will help me understand her interviewing methods.
3) Will write 2 to 3 quick thoughts on how the theme of the picture relates to my own life experiences, and identify how audiences may similarly relate to the primary theme. These thoughts will also be posted on the wall behind my computer in case I get distracted or lost while being questioned.
A few months ago, I purchased home studio equipment which I will use to create my interview space (pictured below).
4) I won't practice my responses. I don't want to appear rehearsed.
If you're an acting teacher, consider adding a class on publicity--giving interviews.
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Matthew Gross, much like pitching is an entirely different and specific skill set for writers to learn, interviews are absolutely a skill set that actors need and are not taught often enough. I think #2 is your key. The best preparation that you can do, is your research into who you're being interviewed by. Much like a job interview or producer meeting, going in with as much information about the person, company, etc. will only serve you! It should also give you some confidence and comfort because you'll know what to expect and be better prepared. Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts and your journey with us all, Matthew!
Interesting topic and something that seems to be over looked in the industry. So many press tours although I have to imagine (at least at a certain level) talent had PR and management that preps them on what to expect and say.
Very smart idea. I heard a story once about a movie start flying to a press event with a newer lead actor and as they approached landing the star went to the bathroom and washed up and changed clothes but the newer actor just stayed in their chair waking up from a nap... when they walked off the plane they were greeted by press and cameras and the star was prepared and gallant and the newer lead unkempt and embarrassed. Theater turned to the newer lead and said, "kid, you gotta know when to strut your stuff." The lesson is that PR is part of the job and a big part and you better be prepared to do it well. I hope people learn from this and take advantage of your advice, Matthew Gross!