James Cavlo – The Affair

By: Jamie Steinberg

Q) What are the recent projects that you are working on? 

A) Luckily, I have been blessed with Rafael Berko and Robin Nassif at Media Artist Group as my theatrical agents. They’re constantly plugging away sending scripts in search for my next project. Yeah, they make me read a lot. [laughs] I believe it’s a matter of finding a project that truly inspires me. It’s also about creating your own content. Along with the help of a few friends at Sony, I’m excited on moving forward with a passion project of mine. The show is a workplace comedy that focuses on the family you don’t get to choose, your coworkers. It’s based on my experiences working at a coffee shop so, you could only imagine the hilarity that ensues. We know it’s a stretch, but we decided on the name, drum roll please…”Baristas.” [laughs]
Q) Please tell us what is new this season on “The Affair” and about your character Patricio.

A) I don’t want to give too much away but, season four raises the stakes as we follow Dominic’s character, Noah Solloway (Dominic West). As Noah seeks to resolve matters in his life, simultaneously Patricio is looking to find stability in his own situation. Circumstance brings them together. It is in the cross hairs of their journeys that they are able to collaborate and get through the disarray.

Q) What made you want to be a part of the show?

A) I’m a fan of the creator, Sarah Treem. The writing on the show “House of Cards” is nothing short of brilliant. Its crisp and engaging to say the least. I feel “The Affair” is similar in the sense that they trim the fat while keeping the audience engaged. When the opportunity came to work on the show I told my agents to sign me up.

Q) Was there anything you added to the character that wasn’t originally scripted for you?

A) [laughs] Once again, not trying to give too much away. Sometimes you are given the details of the scene and nothing more. It is up to the actor to interpret the character in a way that best serves the script. At the end of the day, every character in the show is there to tell a story.
Q) What did you take away from working alongside Dominic West and Maura Tierney?

A) Working alongside Dominic reinforced the work mentality of “there’s a time and place for everything.” I was blown away by how charismatic he was between scenes, but when time came to work he had laser-beam focus. It’s a true talent to switch it on and off as effortlessly as he did. His professionalism taught me more than he will ever know. Thanks Dom.

Q) What were some of your most memorable moments from filming “The Affair?”

A) It kills me that I can’t talk about it! [laughs] I know my reps are sweating as they read this, but sorry I can’t give too many details. What I can say is when things began to escalate I found myself enthralled in the moment. It was fun to film and will be even more fun to watch.

Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the instant fan feedback to episodes? 

A) Absolutely. I try to engage as much as I can with my fans (when time allows). I appreciate fan comments that are truthful. It gives me insight on what I’m doing right or where I’m off my game.

Q) What advice would you give to others who want to start out in the acting business?

A) I would offer the advice I wish someone had given me when I first started; keep at it. If this is truly your passion push through the rejection and setbacks. Own your craft. Sharpen your instrument to the point where you can’t help but shine. Sooner or later, someone will notice.

Q) Who would you most like to work with in the future?

A) Quentin Tarantino! Angelenos gotta stick together! Okay, the man was born out of state, but moved to Los Angeles when he was a kid. It’s safe to say he’s a local. Aside from that, he is as talented as he is resourceful. His attention to detail and out of the box method of storytelling is something I would like to contribute to. I’m not an “Inglorious Bastard,” but I’ll entertain the notion to “Kill Bill.” I couldn’t resist the pun!!

Q) We’ll be seeing you in the upcoming film The Haunting at Silver Falls 2. How do you plan to celebrate the premiere?

A) Uh… legally speaking, that’s not something I’m willing to disclose in an interview. Just kidding! [laughs] Seriously though, my best friend Johnny always had the idea of throwing a premiere party where a compilation of my work would be running on a loop. He even came up with a name for it – “Mondo Movie Night!” I like the idea of taking the corny route with a premiere, but I think it may come off as a bit self-absorbed. [laughs] Who knows, perhaps one of these days I’ll let him do it. I think it would be more for him than for me though.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) I’d like to thank all my fans and supporters. You have no idea how much your support means to me, even if it’s something as simple as a like, comment or a follow.I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you. Thank you. Your love and support is truly inspirational. I will continue to live truthfully through my work and incorporate a piece of myself in my performances. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the inspiration. See you on the screen.