Alex Russell – Brampton’s Own

By: Lisa Steinberg

Q) What are some of the themes and undertones of the movie?

A) I think this movie offers a healthy perspective on the pursuit of one’s goals. The struggle for balance is a common human plight, especially among those who are career driven. We live in a society where our worth seems to be determined by how far we’ve come in our careers. I think work ethic and goals are very important, but I think being present and enjoying each day, each moment with the people around us is paramount. I think this allows, most importantly, for a happier, healthier life and also, ironically leads to better performance in one’s chosen field.

Q) We have seen you portray diverse and driven characters who have this incredible balance of vulnerability, complexity, and are innately compelling. How does this extend with Brampton’s Own and what draws you into or connects you with these characters?

A) Thanks for the compliment! I’d say that the characters certainly won’t be compelling when I play them if they aren’t already on the page. When I read scripts, I look for compelling stories and characters that offer me the same joy and emotional rollercoaster ride I get from watching movies. If I experience that then I’m hooked and that’s exactly what happened when I read Michael’s [Doneger] script for the first time.

Q) Quite often the setting can feel like a character in itself, how does this hold true with this film?

A) I think this fictitious, little town is the perfect setting for this story. The beauty of its simplicity is something to be admired, but also something that a guy like Dustin could easily hold little to no value in when off chasing his dream. I like our Brampton and I wish I could go there and eat Clean Sweets!

Q) How does the movie provide a balance between heartwarming, humor, triumph, and tragedy?

A) I think that’s all on Michael. All those described assets that the film has in spades come from an honestly penned struggle that Dustin is going through. Life is like that. It’s funny and depressing and our struggles can seem tragic and confusing and hilarious. I think Michael captured that wonderfully.

Q) With an extensive career we have seen your characters push boundaries and turn their pain into power. What is it about these strong but flawed characters that we as viewers relate to?

A) We want our heroes to be strong. To be great. To be someone we want to follow, someone proactive, at least in some sense. But we want them to be flawed because we are flawed. We want to relate to them in some way and see them change throughout the story as a result of these extraordinary circumstances they are thrown into.

Q) When you began reading the script for the movie, what are some of your character’s traits or aspects from that really stood out and resonated with you?  

A) I loved his dry wit. And his obsession with his craft. But mostly, I liked how much he felt like a lone wolf. A good guy who just became lost along the way and now just feels he’s better off rolling solo and keeping to himself because all that matters is baseball.

Q) What have you taken away from being a part of this project?

A) I’ve learned so much, especially about comedy. Kevin Linehan is a crash course in comedy. Thank you, Kevin.

Q) Thinking of your own youth, did this movie call to mind any memories of your own?

A) It’s always an interesting feeling going home and walking around and living in the same house I was a teenager in. Driving past my old school, going to the same old grocery store but now it’s changed and looks totally different. Nostalgia is a powerful feeling and a strong ingredient in this story.

Q) What kind of guidance did you receive from writer/director Michael Doneger?

A) He knew the story backwards. Any time I needed clarity on what the moment before was or where Dustin’s head was at, Michael had the answer… which was very helpful given how many scenes I had to shoot a day in our fifteen-day schedule.

Q) What do you hope that viewers take away from watching?

A) A greater understanding of how to let go of the need for a result and how to embrace the journey.