I recently got the chance to talk to Stacey Turner about her role in ‘The Bling Ring’. Here, Stacey talks about what it was like working with the cast and crew on-set and how she got into acting in the first place…
Hey Stacey. Thanks for taking the time out to talk to me about your new film, ‘The Bling Ring’.
What’s the general plotline surrounding the film?
The film is based on a Vanity Fair article Sophia Coppola read about a group of teens that were breaking into celebrities homes while they were out-of-town. It follows the teens from when they start stealing until they are caught.
Tell us a bit about the character you play in the movie…
I am a reporter at the courthouse who is reporting on the sentences they receive.
How did you get involved in the project in the first place?
My manager pitched me for the part and I went in and auditioned. They like to see actors with actual reporting experience so that helps for roles like this one.
How would you say this film is different and unique?
I think it shows the mindset of a certain demographic who really didn’t see any harm in what they were doing. They thought it gave them access to the fame to a certain degree. Sort of that entitled mentality we see more often these days. Sophia is fascinated, it seems, with the human condition. Especially females.
The film stars Katie Chang, Israel Broussard, Emma Watson, Claire Julien, Taissa Farmiga, Georgia Rock, Leslie Mann, Carlos Miranda, Gavin Rossdale and Stacy Edwards – with Sofia Coppola onboard as director – what was it like working with the cast and crew on-set? Any good anecdotes?
The set was fast paced and professional. I’ve worked on other sets where I am there for 10 hours before I’m called on to do my part. As I was getting my mic on and going over my lines with the script supervisor, Sophia walked up and introduced herself. At first it didn’t sink in that it was THE Sophia. I’m sure I looked stunned and a little daft. I tried to cover it up and act cool but I’m not sure I pulled it off. She was very nice and knew exactly what she was looking for out of the scene. Also, she’s super tiny. I had no idea. She and Emma Watson are tied for tiniest people I’ve met in the industry. I was happy just to be selected to work on one of her projects.
Let’s talk a bit about you Stacey. What made you want to get into the acting industry in the first place?
That’s a tough one because I’m really kind of shy but, I was in a church play when I was 5 or 6 and when it was over there was massive applause and I was hooked. I’ve always dabbled in plays by doing regional theatre and I worked as an on-air reporter and anchor for 9 years before I really sat down and listened to my inner voice. Shortly after taking the leap of faith I booked a role in ‘The Blind Side’ and I took that as a sign. I haven’t looked back since.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to pursue a career in the industry?
Know who you are. That’s what makes you interesting when you walk into an audition. Study the craft. Get in a good supportive class. Most of all develop a tough skin. Just because you didn’t get the part doesn’t mean they didn’t like you. I read for a part and got great feedback in the room and just knew I booked it. Needless to say, months later I went to see the film (I’m not in) and an older man with white hair is doing the part. Can’t take that personally.
You’ve been in a number of different TV series and films – which actors/actresses have been your favourites to work with and why? Any good stories?
I had a great time working with Sandra Bullock. We sat across from each other for nearly four hours working on one scene – (which ended up being 30 seconds in the finished film) and she was very cool and laid back. We chatted about her place in Savannah between takes. We goofed around a little and had a few laughs. I was also on set with most of the actors on ‘Bones’. They were all so friendly and chatty. You can tell that actually like each other when the tape isn’t rolling. They didn’t believe me when I told them I actually watch the show until I started talking about each of them in scenes I remembered from years ago.
What’s currently on your I-Pod right now?
I’m a closet Justin Timberlake fan so ’20/20′ was a must. Michael Bublé is also a favourite. Adele can do no wrong. I play her when I want to sing at the top of my lungs. 80’s music is always in the loop. Other than that, I listen to sort of a spa music while I’m writing or working on my computer.
If you could have dinner with three guests – (living or dead), who would you choose and why?
Ah, the dinner question. That’s so tough. I’m fascinated by people in general and I like to watch people all the time. If I’m sitting down to dinner I’d want it to be fun, but also people I can learn from. Maggie Smith is probably top of the list. I love her. Just watched ‘Quartet’ the other day on a flight. Can’t get enough of her. Her sense of timing and character keep me glued to the screen. Harvey Weinstein would have to be there. Everything he touches seems to turn to Oscar gold. Would love to know how he does that. Then maybe Sam Mendes because I’m fascinated by his work. I’d like to be in any of his projects. I’m already wanting to expand the table and add more people. Eddie Izzard comes to mind. I’ll stop at four. But not because I want to.
Which film was your favourite of 2012 and why?
2012? For me, ‘Skyfall’ – (I know, I know Sam Mendes again) but I think it says a lot that it was nominated for and won Oscars. That hasn’t happened in the Bond franchise in a while. Of course, I could watch Daniel Craig with the sound turned down but it really was a great film.
What’s coming up for you in 2013?
Took a little time off and went to Europe, but I’m getting back into the swing of things. I’m writing a sitcom right now and working on a screenplay. I think it’s good to always challenge yourself to do new things. My manager and I are always working on things together. Hopefully some more acting opportunities will come my way soon.
Thanks for the interview!
Matt J. Horn 