Nathalie Cuzner | PZ-4CO | Star Wars

Hi Ms. Cuzner, I’d like to start with asking you how you got into the movie business.

Whilst I was doing my Postgraduate degree -I studied French and Italian at Cardiff University and went on to do a Postgrad in European Literature-, I started working as a Supporting Artist and a Lifestyle Model. Due to my extensive dance background, I was selected to audition as a “monster” back in 2004, for the revived cult TV series, Doctor Who. The audition was a very intensive but wonderful day of various exercises, mini workshops and challenges with the incredibly talented Doctor Who Choreographer and Movement Director, Ailsa Berk. From that day, I went on to play a variety of Doctor Who Monsters for over 10 years, for both television and stage. During this time, I learnt so much from Ailsa and my fellow monsters. Ailsa has been in the industry for a long time and is best known for her work on Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes, and also as a Wheeler on one of my childhood favourites, Return to Oz. During my time on Doctor Who, I also had the pleasure of meeting and working alongside the inspirational actor, physical performer and choreographer, Paul Kasey, who played a wide variety of monsters on the series, having had his first experience of playing a monster in the vampire thriller Blade 2.

You play the resistance droid PZ-4CO in The Force Awakens. How exactly did you get this part?

In November 2013, I got a voicemail from someone requesting for my CV. They were currently working on a production and Paul Kasey was the CFX Movement Director and had recommended me. I had no clue what the production was but promptly updated my CV and sent it in the very next day. I didn’t hear anything for over 6 months and assumed I had been unsuccessful.
Out of the blue, I then received a phone call asking if I could go to Pinewood Studios to be measured for a possible role in a production. It wasn’t until I arrived at the studios that I was made aware of what the production was. I was absolutely lost for words! (Something that doesn’t happen very often!) I will never forget that feeling – a mixture of disbelief, excitement, fear, joy and a huge desire to shout “YES!” as loudly as I could! Just for the record, I was able to control myself and thankfully didn’t actually scream anything out loud!
Before I knew it, I was being whisked off to be measured and to meet a variety of exceptionally talented people. I was first introduced to Pierre Bohanna, HOD Modeller. I then had the pleasure of meeting Toby Hawkes, Supervising Modeller and Neil Ellis, Senior Modeller, who had the challenging job of building PZ-4CO from scratch. Last but by no means least, I was introduced to Michael Kaplan, the Costume Designer and then Creature Concept Designer, Jake Lunt, who generously showed me his original drawings of the droid.
It was only as I was driving home that I realised that day was in fact my “audition”.

And as a result you became-as the credits state- a droid puppeteer for The Force Awakens!

PZ-4CO didn’t have her own specific credit. My name was credited alongside my fellow Creature Actors and Puppeteers under the heading of Creature and Droid Puppeteers. All I know is that I was absolutely delighted to see my name up there on the big screen – and in fact, whilst at the cinema, I asked the person in the row in front of me to basically get out of the way, as he was standing right in front of me putting his coat on whilst the credits were rolling. He gave me a bit of a strange look so I had to quickly explain that I was in the film, so he promptly sat down and watched and cheered along with us!

Due to all the secrecy you couldn’t tell anyone you were in the movie, until recently.

Prior to the film’s release, we were forbidden to discuss any aspect of the movie – or indeed, tell anyone other than our immediate family, that we were even working on the film. We definitely could not speak about any role or roles we may be playing. Once the film was released, I waited until I received permission to discuss my role and then made my announcement.

Were you a Star Wars fan before you got cast? 

Before I got cast, I wouldn’t be able to class myself as a fan sadly. Although I do have very fond memories of it being a big part of my childhood, from trying to put my long hair into Princess Leia style side buns, to wishing I had a pet Ewok! Plus I was always intrigued by and in awe of C-3PO and R2-D2.

What was the first time you saw a Star Wars movie?

I actually cannot remember the first time I saw a Star Wars movie, I would have to ask my older brother. However as soon as I realised I was going to be playing a role in a Star Wars film, I ordered the Star Wars Original Trilogy episodes and watched them all in one afternoon. I think it was at that moment that it started to sink in that I was actually going to be working on a Star Wars film.

I always enjoy the funny, remarkable and weird stories about the things that happened during filming. Do you have any?

Oh I had so much fun filming The Force Awakens and have so many fantastic and cherished memories. Plus each day was remarkable. I was filming Star Wars! With the acclaimed Director J.J. Abrams! It doesn’t get more remarkable or weird than that!
I guess one of my most memorable and most surreal moments was at one of my first rehearsal days. I had been working long and hard with Paul Kasey on several “walks” for the droid. We were rehearsing a scene that we were going to showcase to J.J. Abrams for him to meet the various weird and wonderful creatures who were forming the Resistance. My vision in the suit was rather limited but I could see someone watching me with a lot of intent and interest. When the modellers Toby Hawkes and Neil Ellis came to take the head off of the droid to give me air (she was very heavy and tall so it always took the two guys to put me in her and to take her off of me), this chap who had been watching me started walking over to me. It was at this moment that I realised it was none other than Anthony Daniels. He had a lovely big smile on his face, he took my hand and said “Oh, I have to congratulate you on your walk. It is just delightful. Well done!” I couldn’t have asked for better feedback from a more worthy critic!
Another one that springs to mind was actually the last scene that I filmed, which sadly became a deleted scene. I was doing a close up with John Boyega and after about 10 minutes Toby came up to me and asked if I needed any air or water. Those guys looked after me so well! He used my name when asking this and suddenly John Boyega, who was lying on a gurney, sat bolt upright with a face of both confusion and disbelief and said: “Oh my God, is there an actual person in that?!” I knew at that point that I had done a really good job of making PZ-4CO come alive.

Could you describe an average day on the set of The Force Awakens?

I don’t think there was ever an average day as such but as with all film work, there were many times when we were waiting around, mainly whilst shots were being set up or whilst other scenes were being filmed. But actually some of my most cherished memories are the “hanging about” ones. I was so lucky to work with such a fabulous bunch of fellow Creature Actors and Puppeteers, many of whom have become firm friends, that whenever we weren’t on set, we would be chatting (and very often laughing) away.

A few months before The Force Awakens was released PZ-4CO starred in the Star Wars novel Moving Target, which takes place before the movie. Have you read this novel?

No…but it is now top of my reading list! Thank you for the heads up!


There’s a PZ-4CO action figure! When did you find out you were ‘immortalized’ as a toy and what was your feeling then?

During the filming of The Force Awakens, I was taken to another studio to be “scanned”; a very fascinating and technically brilliant method of taking literally hundreds of photographs to enable a toy to be made to the exact specifications of the droid. It was at this moment that I became aware that she was going to be a Star Wars action figure. I was over the moon about it and couldn’t wait to see her. My mum bought me my first one and she is still in her box, sitting on the shelf above my television.

Episode VIII is currently filming. Any chance we’ll see you as PZ-4CO or another character?

I would love it if they brought PZ-4CO back. I became very fond of her! And of course, it would be wonderful to also play another character. I guess we will all have to wait and see.

Are there new projects or movies you’re currently working on (or will start working on soon)?

I am currently very busy with my regular job. I am a Dance Fitness Instructor and Hypopressive Practitioner and absolutely love what I do. This time of year is always busy with summer fast approaching, plus I am fortunate enough to be invited to be a Guest Presenter at various venues and events all over the UK. But who knows what is around that corner….!

Neal Scanlan | Creature Effects Supervisor | Star Wars

He has worked with the legendary Jim Henson, won an Oscar for Babe and was nominated for an Oscar for his work on Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Of course I am talking about Creature Effects Supervisor Neal Scanlan who was responsible for droids and creatures like BB-8, Maz Kanata and Chewbacca! I interviewed him for the Dutch Star Wars community StarWarsAwakens.nl in mid-April 2016 (and of course you can also read the interview here on my blog).

Mr. Scanlan, you were retired but a certain phone call got you out of your retirement and working on The Force Awakens. How did this all happen?

I received a phone call from Simon Emanuel, the Production Manager, asking if I would be willing to meet a gentleman by the name of Tommy Harper at a hotel in London! I met with Tommy and we chatted for about half an hour, it was a very friendly and general conversation and I left unsure as to whether or not they were offering me the project. It was about three weeks later that Tommy called and offered me the role of Creature Effects Supervisor and asked if I would begin looking at putting together a team and a Creature Shop at Pinewood Studios.

In many ways you’re Star Wars’ new Stuart Freeborn! Did you study the creatures he did for the original movies before starting on The Force Awakens?

Stuart Freeborn was one of the people who inspired me when I was a young man wanting to get involved with the film industry. I was obviously aware of Stuart's work but never really appreciated just how clever an artist he was until we tried to recreate Chewbacca. Our first attempts fell somewhat short so we decided to go back and look at exactly how Stuart had created the mask and suit. It is a phenomenal piece of work, for example, Chewie's suit was knitted by Stuart's wife. One might think this would be a rather primitive approach, but in truth it was the perfect solution as it gives a weight and fit to Peter Mayhew that cannot be achieved with any other fabrics, such as lycra. The mask was also beautifully made, in that Stuart approached it as a make up artist would rather than an engineer. It almost fit like a prosthetic and had very soft mechanics that allowed Peter to operate the jaw.

Your team designed Rey's speeder. A lot has been said about this vehicle. Could you tell where the inspiration came from?

Rey's speeder was designed by one of my concept artists Jake Lunt-Davies. I remember wondering around the studios with Jake, looking at all the old SFX gear and tractors etc as we wanted the speeder to feel almost agricultural, a cross between an old V8 Chevy/ Bentley and a piece of farm equipment.

The character Constable Zuvio (who has his own action figure and book) was created by you and your workshop. However, he doesn't appear in the movie and there aren't deleted scenes with him on the Blu-Ray. Where there scenes filmed with him and why was it all cut?
Constable Zuvio and several other alien characters appeared in the Jakku market place and these sequences were filmed. However, in the final edit, in order to tell the story, and meet the run time, he was unfortunately in one of the scenes that was deleted.

According to a lot of people your biggest achievement in the movie is BB-8. You had to fine tune him, like deciding where to put a lens on his head. How did you approach this task? Since he's main cast and featured in a lot of promotional stuff it was important that it was perfect.

BB-8 was a huge challenge, the original design came from a sketch that JJ had done on a napkin, a little round ball with a half sphere on top. ILM, in pre production, had worked this design to a point that was familiar to the BB-8 in the movie. But JJ asked if we could spend time refining, not only BB-8's head, but the panels, graphics, lights etc. Jake did numerous sketches, each with subtle changes and over a period of time we fine tuned the design until we were happy. We then modelled BB-8 in maya and produced very high end photorealistic renditions in different environments and under varying lighting scenarios. We did this in order to build our confidence that the design was correct before we engineered the BB-8 you see in the film.

You must have a favorite creature and droid.

My favourite creature is the large beast at the watering-hole in Jakku. I am particularly proud of this creature because of our essentially 'low-tech' approach. I showed Vanessa Bastyan, our Head of Fabrication, a simple wooden animal kit that consisted of many profiles slotted together and thought this might be a way of building a very large creature that could be physically performed rather than mechanically operated with electric motors or hydraulics. Vanessa did an incredible job of taking this idea and turning it into reality. The final creature consisted of those very similar profiles covered in a tailored latex skin. There was very little that we sculpted and moulded, so this creature was constructed from the ground up. Quite a novel approach I think!
My favourite droid is a tiny little sand droid that drives through one shot. This droid was made by Steve Wright, one of our Animatronic Designers, in his lunch time. It was never designed, or asked for, but I showed it to JJ and he loved it - so he put it in the movie!

What was the hardest thing you experienced while working on The Force Awakens, and what are you most proud of?

The hardest thing we experienced on The Force Awakens was the sheer volume of work, as everything we made, we also designed. It was a very organic process, but all in all we made over 110 creatures and droids in less than 20 weeks. The thing I am most proud of is that I think we reintroduced to a lot of the crew on the film, JJ and Kathleen Kennedy included, the positive aspects that can come from filming Creature Effects practically.

What is your opinion of the movie? Did you like it, and were you satisfied with the result of your work or are there things you would like to have changed?

I absolutely adored the movie, I have seen it over eight times at the cinema in all its different formats. Although you are never totally satisfied with your work, I am however very proud of the contribution that we made. If there was anything I would change, it would be that our creatures would be in it for longer!

You are also involved with Rogue One and Episode VIII. Will you work on the other future Star Wars movies as well? And could you give a tiny bit of information of what we can expect creature-wise in Rogue One and VIII?

Yes you are correct. We have finished filming Rogue One and are presently filming Episode VIII, and I very much wish to continue working on all the upcoming Star Wars movies. Although I can't give details, each director brings with them their unique way of seeing the world of Star Wars and it is me and my team's responsibility to help realise their vision. I think you will see, as the films unfold, that the Creatures and Droids will become more sophisticated, even bigger and better!

My last question: what was the funniest thing that happened while working on The Force Awakens?

I remember being in Abu Dhabi, in the heat of the desert and thought it would be a good idea to apply honey to the large beast in order to attract the local flies. Indeed the flies were attracted, however not to the beast, but to me and I spent the rest of the day fighting off swarms of very small, but very persistent sand flies.

I'd like to thank you for this interview and your fantastic work on The Force Awakens and I am looking forward to see your new creations in Rogue One and Episode VIII!

Keith De'Winter | Goss Toowers | Star Wars

In The Force Awakens the Resistance base on the planet D’Qar was visited for the first time. On this base one of the technicians is Goss Toowers, played by creature performer Keith De’Winter. In late March 2016 he did the following interview, exclusively for this site and StarWarsAwakens.nl.

Mr. De’Winter, my first question: How did you get into the movie business?

The movies are the reason I wanted to become an actor when I was a child. I worked for many years in theatre and had done some independent films. The Force Awakens is the first Blockbuster I’ve worked on.

In The Force Awakens you play the part of Goss Toowers. Could you tell how you got this role?

Actually it was through theatre work that I was recommended for this role. The year before filming began I was touring in Dubai for a show there. I worked with a great choreographer who the following year was the creature co-ordinator for The Force Awakens. He remembered me and, when asked who he’d like to work with, he recommended me. This is an example of there being no small jobs. As an actor you must treat every job with the same level of professionalism, as you never know what other work it will lead to.

On your site I saw you’re also credited as a droid puppeteer for The Force Awakens. Can you tell something more about this? 

My role in The Force Awakens was as a creature performer, not a puppeteer. A creature performer is inside the costume with an earpiece linked to the puppeteer. Because vision is limited inside the costume, whilst filming, the puppeteer passes information to the creature actor so they know what’s happening around them. The communication between puppeteer and actor is vital with so much going on during the filming of the scene. The puppeteer works the animatronics whilst the actor brings the character to life. The credit listing in the film is ‘Creature and Droid Puppeteers’, there wasn’t an individual listing.

You officially announced that you played Goss Toowers last month (February 2016). Was there a specific reason you couldn’t say that before the movie was released or shortly after the release?

Before the release of the film any information that can be classed as a “spoiler” cannot be released. This includes anything about any possible creatures. In the case of The Force Awakens we waited for official notification that we could release this news. I worked on the film 18 months before it was released but any creature or character information was a closely guarded secret. Everyone working on the film wanted the fans to be surprised and excited on seeing the film, and this is the best way of ensuring that.

There’s a Goss Toowers action figure and even a LEGO minifigure (I proudly admit I have the LEGO one!). When did you find out you were ‘immortalized’ as toys and what was your feeling then?

When filming The Force Awakens I did get told that there was a possibility of a LEGO figure, of course the idea was very exciting but once again I couldn’t share that information with anyone. Besides, working on the film was already a surreal experience, so the idea of a toy was incredible to me. It was before the film was released when the first wave of toys came out in stores and I got to see my character as a LEGO figure. That blew me away! Then along came the action figure…Goss Toowers…I couldn’t believe it, and yes, I also own each one.

What was the first time you saw a Star Wars movie and were you a fan before you got cast?

I first saw Star Wars a long time ago, in a cinema, far, far away…sorry, couldn’t resist! Being into film I went to the cinema a lot as a child, which again is the reason I wanted to become an actor. I had no idea what the film was about, I just knew I had to watch it as it was some kind of futuristic space adventure. I remember queuing up with my friends, in a very long queue, and hoping we’d get in to see it. The moment arrived and as I watched the title scrawl across the screen I knew this was going to be something special. After the film finished, we made our way home playing at being in Star Wars. It’s one thing to play at being Han Solo, but another to actually working with him!

Could you share some stories regarding the filming of your scenes?

A remarkable thing was being directed by J.J. Abrams. He made sure he knew everyone’s name, and came in everyday with a real passion for the work we were all doing.
Another quite funny story, regarding my costume, I wear some padding underneath my clothes to give Goss his cute rotundness. Once the flesh coloured padding is on, one being his tummy and one being his bottom, people would often catch site of it at the corner of their eye and think it was real. The looks and gasps and laughter as they then realised the flesh coloured bottom was not my own but a false one! That was the same reaction every day!

Could you describe an average day on the set of The Force Awakens?

Working on any film set you have to have the 2 P’s…Passion and Patience! As glamourous as it can seem, working on a film set can also mean lots of waiting around while scenes you aren’t in are filmed or while new shots are set up. Whilst waiting you have to be ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Episode VIII is currently filming. Any chance we’ll see you as Goss Toowers (or another character) again?

Episode VIII is out in December 2017, so I guess you’ll have to wait and see.

Are there other new projects or movies you’re currently working on (or will start working on soon)?

I have a few projects currently in the pipeline but nothing I can disclose at this time.

Hopefully one of them is a Star Wars movie! Thank you for your time and this interview!

Charlie Akin | Stormtrooper | Star Wars

In The Force Awakens the new First Order Stormtroopers were introduced. There was a small select group of actors who portrayed them in most scenes and actor Charlie Akin was one of them. Besides this he was also the stand-in of Captain Phasma! In late March 2016 he did the following interview for StarWarsAwakens.nl and StarWarsInterviews!

Mr. Akin, let’s start at the beginning: How did you get started in the movie business?

I had just come back from university and not sure what I was going to do next. I heard that there was an open casting for supporting artistes (extras) for Wrath of the Titans in Wales. I was selected, and worked on the film for the Wales location of the filming. I enjoyed it so decided to sign up with more of the major agencies that supplied extras to film industry.

How did you get cast for Star Wars: The Force Awakens as a Stormtrooper and as the stand-in of Captain Phasma?

I was signed up with the agency that supplied the extras and was put forward based on the 5ft10″ – 6ft2″ brief. Myself, along with circa 80 others, attended an assessment day and were graded on the way the outfit fitted and looked on us as well as how we performed in basic military tasks and manoeuvres e.g. marching, standing in ranks and responding to orders, left/right turns, walking up/down stairs. It was narrowed down to about 12 core Stormtroopers that were used constantly throughout UK filming. Thankfully I was one of them!
As for Captain Phasma stand-in, I only stood in for her for 2 days. She would have had a regular stand-in that for whatever reason wasn’t there those days so I filled in based on similar attributes. Despite her being a female and myself a male, these were height/build/hair colour similarities.

In which scenes can we see you as a Stormtrooper and what was your exact task as Phasma’s stand-in? Are there scenes in which you are Phasma?

The most obvious time you see me as a Stormtrooper is in the opening scene on Jakku walking down the ship on the right behind Kylo Ren. I’m also amongst all of the Stormtroopers in the ship as its travelling to Jakku. All command centre scenes I was in but quite hard to accurately point out where exactly because you never know which take is used in post-production and often things are changed in between takes. Any scene with heavy usage of Stormtroopers I’ll be in and amongst it. You do see me walk across screen as part of the Rebel Alliance at the base. I was multiple characters.
So as the title name suggests, I would literally be standing in front of the camera in a replica Phasma costume whilst the camera/lighting crew and others are setting themselves up around me ready for when Gwendoline steps in and gives her performance. It’s a more efficient way of using the actors time. So no I’m in not in any scenes as Phasma, because stand-ins are used for off camera purposes.

Did you talk with Gwendoline Christie about the part of Phasma? How was it working with her?

No. Generally speaking it’s not common practice to speak to the actors and instructions are passed on by assistant directors. We only shared a brief personal hello together. She was very enthusiastic about being there and part of the production.

Were you a Star Wars fan before you got cast? What was the first time you saw a Star Wars movie and what is your personal favorite?

I was a mild fan yes. As a youngster (about 11 or 12) I was fascinated by the imagery and had some of the various merchandise like the flickout lightsaber! My favourite from a nostalgic perspective would have to be Return of the Jedi, but because I was part of it, The Force Awakens as it holds sentimental value.

Regarding your time on the set of Star Wars: were there extraordinary or funny things that happened on and off the set?

Yes. It was funny when we were running down the ship’s ramp after landing on Jakku, many Stormtroopers were falling over due to sight being very limited in the helmet and the un-evenness of the sand’s terrain. Seeing explosions go off and stunt men flying in the air is always an extraordinary sight!

Did you get to interact with the main cast like Harrison Ford, Oscar Isaac, John Boyega and Daisy Ridley? How were they?

No. Unfortunately there weren’t any scenes where I interacted with the main cast. I was close to them at points and everyone seemed very happy to be there.

 

Besides the movie you also did a couple of promotional events dressed as a Stormtrooper. I saw a photo of Carrie Fisher holding your hand (while you’re dressed as a Stormtrooper). What was it like doing these events?

Great! That photo you’re referring to is from the European premiere in London, UK. It was a very exciting event to do. We walked down the red carpet in ranks and then myself and a few others were standing at the press area where celebrities have their pictures taken. A few pictures of myself and Carrie were in some of the UK’s nation press! They’re available online.

Episode VIII is currently filming and Rogue One will be released in December. Will we see you again in one of these?

Yes!….Well hopefully! Because the original Stormtrooper design costumes were used for Rogue One, I didn’t fit into it thus couldn’t be a Stormtrooper. But I was a marine soldier as part of the resistance.

As for Episode VIII, I’ll be returning as a Stormtrooper and will be filming soon!!

My final question: please finish the following sentence: “Looking back at working on Star Wars: The Force Awakens…”

Looking back at working on Star Wars: The Force Awakens I’d like to thank everyone that made it possible for me to work on such an exhilarating project. Bring on the next one!

Thanks for the interview…and, since you’re in Rogue One, see you in December!

Arti Shah | Maz Kanata | Star Wars

One of the most mysterious new characters in The Force Awakens is without a doubt Maz Kanata. This orange skinned female pirate is played by two actresses: Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o was responsible for the voice and facial expressions (Maz is a CGI character) and actress Arti Shah did all the motion capture. In early February 2016 I interviewed Arti (who also starred in movies like Hary Potter and Guardians of the Galaxy) exclusively for this website.

Ms. Shah, what or who made you decide to become an actress?

When I was at school, I very much enjoyed drama and always enjoyed watching films, however I ended up studying business. It was when I graduated from my degree, my year tutor said to me “Arti, I can see you working in the media industry”, which gave me the encouragement to go back to what I enjoyed. So, I moved to London and started to follow my passion.

How did you get cast for The Force Awakens?

I was recommended to do some puppeteering on the film which then lead to a meeting with JJ Abrams about Maz, where I would also motion capture this wonderful character with Lupita Nyong’o.

Were you a Star Wars fan before you got cast?

I suppose my relationship with Star Wars while growing up was on and off. When I was a kid, I’d obviously seen the film and was blown away by it. But as I grew older my interests changed. I was very much aware of Star Wars during the prequel era, but my focus at that point in my life was on other things so it was more about nostalgia for me back then, rather than full on fandom. But, when I was asked to come in to meet with creatures about Episode VII, I went back and saw the films again. Marathon sessions, although for me I feel it’s better to do marathons of each trilogy rather than attempting all 6 in one go! There’s just too much to take in! My superfan boyfriend, Rutvig, has helped me gain new insights into the films as well. Now I’m hooked again!

Do you recall the first time you saw a Star Wars movie?

I hope I’m not showing my age here now but, here goes. The first time I saw Star Wars was on television at Christmas in the early 80’s. Replete with adverts! I was very young but I recall feeling completely exhilarated by the experience. I’d never seen anything like it and as you can imagine, for a child to see such fantastical things on screen; it just made me feel so happy and opened up my imagination. I think it turned me on to what film and moving images could be. And to be honest, that’s probably where my interest in filmmaking and wanting to be an actress started.

At San Diego Comic Con a special behind the scenes reel was released. Millions saw you in your Gonk droid outfit -with a huge smile- (of course because you’re in Star Wars). I’d like to know what you felt when you saw this clip for the first time. Was it a surprise they included you?

So, the clip was shown on a Friday evening in San Diego and in London we’re 8 hours ahead. I was asleep when it was shown. When I woke, I went on my Facebook page and saw that I had been tagged in a YouTube clip and that there were a couple of screen shots of me in the Gonk. I was super happy and so surprised at the same time.

In The Force Awakens you performed as the body double for Maz Kanata. Did you get to play Maz in all her scenes in the movie? In other words: every time we see Maz we see you (with added CGI effects)?

Yes, I did get to play Maz in all the scenes with Lupita, so you see both of us with the added CGI effects every time.

The voice and facial expressions of Maz were done by Lupita Nyong’o. Did you meet her and talked about Maz and this role?

I was very lucky to have met Lupita, she was such a pleasure to work with. She would tell me how she wanted Maz to come across and also she would ask my perspective with regards to Maz’s height and how quickly she would walk. As a small person, I tend to take small but quick steps.

Can you share some of your memories regarding the time you worked on The Force Awakens?

I played a character which was nicknamed a “Fueller”, I don’t know the official name for this just yet, as soon as I do, I’ll put it onto social media. This character can be seen in D’Qar, near the Millennium Falcon and an X-Wing. I’m wearing a mustard cloak and have a gas mask on my face. I had to wear a fat suit to make this character look unique. Every day after lunch, everyone would say to me “Arti, you’ve had a big lunch”. I found this to be very funny!

Talking about other characters: Gwellis Bagnoro was also played by you. I’ve seen the costume and headgear, this character doesn’t appear to have a mouth! How could you breathe and perform in that costume?

Ah Gwellis…The creature creators, who are all very talented, do take into consideration breathing and air. So I had little holes that I could breathe out of. It was a very comfortable costume to wear.

How was JJ Abrams to work with?

JJ was such a nice director to work with, he spoke to and treated everyone equally. He was always so encouraging and you could definitely see his passion for the film come across when he was directing.

The big question everyone wants to know: will we see you again in Episode VIII and/or Rogue One?

All I can say is maybe, as I am not sure. Sorry!

Ms. Shah, many thanks for this interview. Hopefully we’ll see you again in a Star Wars movie.

Mark Alec Rutter | Stormtrooper | Star Wars

In The Force Awakens we met the new First Order Stormtroopers. One of them was played by British actor Mark Alec Rutter. In 2014 Mark was cast as a core Stormtrooper in The Force Awakens and was also seen in a scene helping Chewbacca carry Finn off the Millennium Falcon. In late january 2016 I had an interview with him in which he went into GREAT detail about his Star Wars experiences. If you like Behind-the-scenes stories and want to know what it's like to be in a Star Wars movie you should continue reading...

Mr. Rutter, my first question: What or who made you want to become an actor?

From an early age I was subjected to film by my mother and was brought up on all the Hollywood movies from musicals to Westerns. At school I always wanted to join in the plays but was so shy and it was not until I was in my late teens that I had the courage to perform. I had a very Victorian upbringing and was told that I needed to get a proper job so it was not until I was 34 that I did a two year Drama course and passed with distinction. The acting business is very hard to get into as you know, but I am fortunate enough now to pursue what I love.

How did you get cast as a Stormtrooper and resistance Soldier for The Force Awakens?

I was put up for the role by my agent and went along for the screen test and boot camp. The role of a Stormtrooper is actually quite demanding and your measurements are quite important for the suit. When I got to Pinewood Studios I was slightly dismayed that 98 % of the guys were under 25, ‘No pressure then!’  I am 53, the oldest Stormtrooper on The Force Awakens, but just got on with it and as always did my best. After two days of being tested for various different assessments , including stair walking in suit, weapon maneuvers, marching and running in formation, the 100 or so Troopers were split into three groups, A, B and C group. I had made it into a group! And later told I was to be in the core 8, which would be used for all close work on camera. I was told I looked good in the costume but it is actually very uncomfortable to wear and after a short time it becomes evident that the day is going to be tough…but we are on the set of Star Wars! Right? So man up. The part of Resistance Soldier was cast at Pinewood and by now we were all known for our reliability so it was a case of being chosen for our look and ability I guess. I feel very lucky to have got on this iconic movie.

Were you a Star Wars fan before you got cast?

No, I must admit I was not to be honest I was not blown away with Sci-fi and at the time more into Rocky and such like, it was not until the arrival of The Empire Strikes Back in 1980, I was well into the whole Star Wars thing. There is nothing like it and I don’t think there ever will be anything to top Star Wars.

 

Back to The Force Awakens: In which specific scenes can we see you as a Stormtrooper?

Well, being one of the Core 8 I was in most of the scenes. In fact being very close to camera and as with all films what you see on screen they get cut or manipulated in some way. In opening scene invading the village, coming off the landing ship and running down ramp, holding prisoners and sweeping thru village. The scene where Finn gets the blood on his helmet from his fellow trooper, I can be seen walking past behind. This was a night shoot, one of nearly two weeks’ worth of village scenes.
The scene they used for the trailer, I am seen in this. It’s a widely published photo, where troopers are all ready for attack on the village looking for Lor San Tekka in the landing craft. I remember it very well as it was amazing…I had one of those moments standing on this craft. I will always remember thinking: ‘wow, this is Star Wars Mark!’ I remember saying they would use this scene for the trailer and they did!
The scene when Finn and Poe steal the Tie fighter, I am on ground firing at the ship as it tries to break free. This was a massive scene and filmed over several days, lots of different shots and we were used for many camera angles. The scene had a lot of pyro going off and I remember the set actually catching fire for a brief second but the fire support was awesome. I am also scene here walking up 30 steps at the back of the set to the right, a very small trooper. What people don’t realize is I had to go up 30 steps for each take and then walk back down, 29 takes! During the two day boot camp we were told that they would need someone to walk up stairs and we all had to try and do this and look as natural as possible, many did not try as the steps were shallow and visibility was very poor with those helmets on. I must have done something right because I was chosen. When the day came the set was awesome and I saw the steps and remember thinking, ‘Heck’, help me through this!’ each time I passed a steam exhaust, this was one of the hardest days for me on set but all part of the job.
In the corridor scenes with Adam Driver, I am marching back and forth and in corridors while Daniel Craig was doing his mind games with Daisy Ridley.
In the scene with the landing craft where the Stormtroopers are running towards the village I run to the right. In this scene I and several others fell on hitting the sand in first couple of takes, vision was very bad and as there was a trooper right in front of us made it worse.
As I said, many scenes and many amazing memories to share, just a few here.

Besides playing a First Order Stormtrooper you’re also the resistance soldier who helps Chewbacca carry a wounded Finn off the Millennium Falcon. What can you tell about filming this scene?

This scene was filmed at RAF Greenham Common, and the weather was good. The production had a lot of trouble keeping it secret and there were many days when filming had to stop or wait because planes, helicopters, or drones were overhead trying to get a glimpse of what was going on. Some photos were leaked to the press of X-Wings and sets. Production covered X-Wings up to hide them and it was quite stressful for JJ I believe.
On one of the days JJ had his own drone up in the air with camera on board so he could view the scene from the helicopters point of view but obviously a lot less expensive. When he was happy with everything he would bring in the chopper. I remember us all watching him maneuver it and we all applauded when he did a faultless landing.
On the day of the Falcon scene I turned up and was sent straight into makeup, so knew it was going to be a special day, and it was. The AD said to me: ‘ remember me when you’re famous!’, I remember laughing. This specific scene where I help Chewie carry Finn off the Millennium Falcon was considerably longer than what you see. Initially I run up to Chewie from camera left and help him down the ramp to a sort of first aid wagon. The camera pans round and I turn to camera, -face clearly seen- and then we were filmed travelling away through the crowd who had turned up to see the arrival of Han Solo off the falcon.
Poe (Oscar Isaac) was on the wagon and they drive off slowly with me running alongside holding Finn on the back. I had a trouble keeping a straight face as Poe was making fun of Finn and cracking jokes, it made a hot day much more fun.

Can you share more of your memories regarding the time you worked on The Force Awakens?

I have many amazing memories from this particular film, so many days on different sets, some nights, and many days in studios. Some in the rain and some in extreme heat but here are just two or three for now.
What people do not necessarily know about big major Studios it that other stuff is going on in other sets and films and many actors are massive fans of Star Wars and the actors themselves have families.
On one of the days I was standing in for Harrison Ford. It was in fact the scene where he and his son Kylo Ren are walking on the bridge just before Solo gets struck down and I was just relaxing there off set with a coffee and someone walked in and stood beside me. It was Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) and he just wanted to have a look and say hi I guess, he turned to me and said hi, I returned the compliment and he walked off and had a chat with JJ, all part of filming I guess.
Another great day was actually the scene where all the troopers turn to see the planet explode. This was a really long day, 13 hours in costume I believe and such a scorcher. Troopers were passing out from heat and sweat constantly running down our backs into our boots, so glamorous! Continuous running day so no break for dinner as such. Anyway the day had come to an end and we were tired, waiting for the word,” wrap” but an AD came over to us troopers and said: ‘I need two troopers’, one guy said ok and the next made up an excuse that his helmet was missing, so I said: ‘OK, I’m in’. We were taken out past set and behind an easy-up, and there waiting and looking was Mark Hamill himself, with his wife and two children. We walked up and he approached me and said: ‘Hi, pleased to meet you, I would shake your hand but you’re carrying a gun and helmet’, I instantly replied with: ‘I can put the helmet down’, smiled and introduced myself.  We were photographed with Mr. Hamill, me to his left pointing my gun at him and he is looking at me. I guess this was just a personal photograph but it might come out somewhere later. Again he was very humble and thanked me for my time, true gent. Great day for me.
And finally for me, for now was the day when we got to set and the trooper costumes had been cleaned and polished. We were told that Annie Leibovitz (editor’s note: a very famous photographer who did a Star Wars photoshoot for Vanity Fair) was here to photograph us, wow, this was awesome. We were taken down to ‘The Paddock’ area of rough ground at back of Pinewood Studio where many outdoor scenes are done. Here we posed with Gwendoline Christie in full silver suit! I stood directly behind her right with a red captain flash on my shoulder…this photo has yet to emerge.
Then we were asked to pose in the mud for more photos, there were only about 5, 6 troopers used for this shoot which was to be used for the magazine Vanity Fair, she is a total perfectionist and people were running about after her every whim. She was not happy with the suits being so clean, and we were all splashed with mud to give the shots more realism. Much to the disgust of the costume department, who would have to clean them all off again.
Finally a great group shot with crew, great day.

I bet strange or funny things have happened during the making of the movie.

One of the strange days was the day when Harrison Ford had the accident (editor’s note: he broke his leg on the set), I had in fact just got to set that day only to be told to go home…at this point no one knew what had happened and it was not till I got home that I found out about his accident. I won’t go into it any more as it’s not my place but the whole set was shut down. That was an easy short day. On return to set I had decided to get him a get well card with Darth Vader on the front, I got several troopers to sign it and wrote, “Get well soon, from the enemy”. I  hope it made him chuckle.

You mentioned JJ Abrams earlier in this interview. What do you think of him as a director?

JJ is very calm and focused on what he wants, on the rare occasion that he does speak he commands the set and speaks with a controlled voice that only comes from experience. Most of the time the producer Tommy Harper runs the show to be honest and JJ is there behind the screens making sure everything is the way he wants. Tommy is a well-loved character on set and could always be heard shouting, “Energy Energy”, with every take, with his broad Scottish accent. The main impression I got from JJ is that he was honored to be directing The Force Awakens and loved every minute of it.

Besides acting you’ve also worked as a voiceover. Which of these two do you prefer?

Yes, I have been heavily involved in two voiceover projects, which not only had me doing voiceover but also on location in Finland in winter and summer. I was involved in production also but I have to say acting is what I love; becoming someone else for the day has its appeal.

Last question: what do you regard as the highlight of your career?

Well I have done a lot in my life but I have to say that being involved in something as awesome as Star Wars has to be right at the top of the list of achievements.

Thank you for this interview! You surely had a lot of interesting things to say!

Rony Bridges interview | First Order Admiral | Star Wars

One of the most memorable scenes in The Force Awakens was General Hux' speech at Starkiller Base. Many Stormtroopers and First Order officers witnessed this including the First Order admiral played by actor Rony Bridges. In the following interview he shares some of his experiences including the moment when JJ Abrams called him the new Peter Cushing, and the answer he got from Gwendoline Christie when he asked her a funy question!

How did you get started in the movie business?

I had a prop hire company about 15 years ago, supplying props for TV and films including Trainspotting. A Casting Director asked to take my photograph and that evening I was asked if I would like to be in Peter Capaldi’s new film, Strictly Sinatra playing a gangster which I agreed to.I remember Peter giving me my very first direction, he called out on set, “Hey you, what’s your name?” I answered “Rony” and he replied, “Move out of shot Rony, you’re too tall!” Subsequently I went on to work in other TV Dramas and Films such as Rebus, Garrows Law, Eagle, Valhalla Rising and Outlander to name a few.

Rony Bridges (right) with Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale, Rogue One) behind the scenes at Valhalla Rising

How did you get cast for The Force Awakens? And what was your reaction when you heard you got the part of a First Order officer?

I was in London playing a butcher on Tulip Fever I knew they were filming Star Wars VII and a friend of mine was 1st Assistant Director so he suggested I send my CV to the Casting Director and I got the call to go to Pinewood for costume fitting. I was absolutely over the moon when I found out the part I was playing was a First Order Officer.

Were you a Star Wars fan before you got cast?  

Not really a big fan but I am now and feel that I owe a responsibility to the diehard fans.

You are in the scene in which Domhnall Gleeson’s character General Hux gives that memorable speech, standing next to Gwendoline Christie’s character. What can you tell about your experiences being in that scene?

Well I couldn’t resist asking Gwendoline how she managed to pee wearing her costume and she said if she told me she would have to kill me! Also J.J. kept thinking there was something wrong with the scene then he got “Get a box for Rony!” I’m 6’1″ and I had to stand on a box next to Gwendoline who is even taller with her Captain Phasma helmet on.

In which other scenes can we see you?

No other scenes that I can see.

Can you share some of your other memories regarding the time you worked on The Force Awakens?

At the end of the first day all 6 First Order officers were lined up, one of the ADs started going down the line telling each one they were no longer required, which met with some grief as some of the guys thought they had been booked for 5 days. I was thinking, “Oh well, that’s it then.” When she got to me she said, “You’re staying” she turned to the others and said “It’s because he is an Admiral you were all Generals.”

Rony Bridges (middle) with General Hux (Domhnall Gleeson, left) and Captain Phasma (Gwendoline Christie, right)

I read that JJ Abrams called you the new Peter Cushing! Can you tell something more about this moment? 

It happened when I walked on set for the first time, he called out “We have the new Peter Cushing”. All I could think of as a response was “I wish!”

The big question: will we see you again in Episode VIII and/or Rogue One? 

I’m penciled in for Star Wars VIII so hope and pray.

Of all the things you have done so far…what do you regard as the highlight of your career?

I would say Star Wars VII was a career highlight although I’ve been more prominent in other things but when 2 minute trailers for a movie get over 65 million views you know it’s kind of special and being asked to join Sci-Fi Signers United and realize your autographed photograph is in demand…Now that’s cool.