Joshua Diaz – Fantasy Island

By starrymag | February 12, 2020

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

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

 

A) Right now, I’m in post for a short film I did with award winning director Jonothon James Williams called I’d Like to Thank the Academy. I’m currently also writing a feature that I’ll be staring in. We have the director attached already so that’s my baby right now.

 

Q) Please tell us the premise for Fantasy Island.

 

A) It’s based on the 1970s Hit TV show of the same name, so you have four characters that are no different to you and me. We all have wants and needs. It’s natural in this world and needed for our survival. So, you have four people head to island where their fantasies are…That’s all I can say! What unfolds next you will have to go and see it in theatres.

 

Q) In what way is this movie different than the TV show it is based on?

 

A) The fantasies are a more in-depth view of our society now. The world has changed a lot in fifty years. So, in all ways it’s different from the original show.

 

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

 

A) To work on something that by namesake had weight and history behind it, that’s enough for anyone to jump on. The cast…I mean, Michael Pena. I grew up watching him in films, so to work with him was an awesome experience and to learn from one of the best guys working right now. Kim Coates was the same. He’s a guy that just brings it every scene. Austin Stowell was the same. In doing scenes with Jimmy [O. Yang] and Ryan [Hansen], seeing their characters come together was very rewarding.

 

Q) How was your character Alejandro originally described to you?

 

A) A guy you wouldn’t expect exists, but when you see him it all makes sense.

 

Q) Was there anything you added to him that wasn’t in the initial breakdown?

 

A) There were things I did add, but I think that’s what happens when you collaborate with people who really know this game. Things are added all the time it’s what making a movie is about.

 

Q) What did you find challenging about this role?

 

A) The weather was a challenge! We shot in hot sun, but it was beautiful at the same time.

 

Q) What advice did director Jeff Wadlow offer that you took to heart while filming?

 

A) If you really commit to do this, which you can, this will come naturally.

 

Q) What were some of your favorite scenes to film?

 

A) We did a scene in a pool that was my favorite to shoot.

 

Q) What do you think it is about Fantasy Island that will make it a fast fan favorite horror movie?

 

A) The story, the cast and the location. It’s a triple threat.

 

Q) What advice would you give to up and coming actors and actresses?

 

A) Always test your ideas and beliefs because we are forever moving, whether we like or not. Go with the flow.