We are delighted to have the opportunity to interview James Quinn today. He is a celebrated actor, writer, and director who has been selected to helm the pilot episode of the highly anticipated Strange Angels television series. Quinn is renowned for his distinct and mesmerizing approach, delivering impactful performances and crafting visually arresting and emotionally resonant productions. His exceptional talents have made him a sought-after professional in the entertainment field.
HELLO JAMES QUINN, WELCOME TO BLACKBIRDNEWS! AS SOMEONE WHO WEARS MULTIPLE HATS IN THE ACTION MOVIE INDUSTRY, WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE ACTING, DIRECTING, AND WRITING IN THIS GENRE SPECIFICALLY?
I have always been a big fan of film noir as well as action movies such as Die Hard, Rocky, & the film noir classic “Body AND Soul”. I love the combination of action & great story telling. It provides an emotional element to invest in the stories & characters.
WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS ACTION MOVIES APART FROM OTHER FILM GENRES, AND WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE AUDIENCES ENJOY MOST ABOUT THEM?
I think the action films are much quicker than other genres. This tends to keep the audience engaged every moment as they are afraid to miss a moment of the action.
WHEN YOU’RE WRITING AN ACTION MOVIE SCRIPT, WHAT ELEMENTS DO YOU THINK ARE ESSENTIAL FOR A SUCCESSFUL STORY?
I always first want to create intriguing leading characters that are identifiable to audiences. Once I know my characters on a personal level I can than begin to build my story around them. As the story begins to come to life it’s then easier for me to create additional characters along the way. I’m of the mind that I have to love my characters & story before audiences can.
AS A DIRECTOR, HOW DO YOU BALANCE THE CREATIVE VISION YOU HAVE FOR A MOVIE WITH THE PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS OF MAKING IT COME TO LIFE ON SCREEN?
So to me creative vision always out ways the practical. What I mean is you always see things bigger, brighter, & without limitations in your mind while creating a story. The practical keeps you balanced. The combination of vision & practical keeps you on track to creating a visually & intellectually pleasing film while keeping it authentic & believable to the viewers.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE PHYSICALLY FOR AN ACTION MOVIE ROLE, AND HOW DOES YOUR APPROACH TO PREPARING DIFFER WHEN YOU’RE ALSO DIRECTING THE FILM?
So for me, I try to keep in shape year-round so that when an action project comes up that is physically demanding I’ll be able to endure. I just up the pace of my workouts X 3 during filming to give myself the edge needed to perform at optimal level.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU’VE FACED AS BOTH AN ACTOR AND DIRECTOR IN A MOVIE, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
My biggest challenge was being on a set full of negative vibes and trying to not let it bring me down. I was able to overcome the negative energy but keeping my eye on my goals. Knowing I am only one yes away from success is always a motivating factor for me. It outweighs a million knows and negative vibes. Keep your eye on the prize & don’t relent.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE FUTURE OF ACTION MOVIES, BOTH IN TERMS OF THE STORIES BEING TOLD AND THE TECHNOLOGY USED TO CREATE THEM?
I think technology is always getting bigger & better so films will continue to get more & more visually stimulating. What we need to focus on is creating new story lines that don’t feel recycled. Coming up with new material is always hard but is absolutely the difference maker.
WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU?
In terms of what’s next for me, I’m looking forward to it as much as any fan because I always believe my best work is yet to come. I’ve had the pleasure and fortune to be a part of some amazing things in this industry. That being said there is something nerve-racking & exhilarating about wanting to do something bigger than you’ve ever done before and not knowing when it’s coming.
You can connect on Twitter @RealJamesQinn, Facebook: @James Quinn and Instagram: @realjamesquinn
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