Interviews
Martin Copping – Call of Duty: Vanguard
By: Lisa Steinberg
Q) We’re hearing you now in Call of Duty: Vanguard. How was your role of Lucas Riggs described to you?
A) Much the same as with other film and television character descriptions. Usually there will be a back story of the characters past – a physical description, characteristics and traits. And, of course, the dialogue which is always very informative. Then, the rest is up to me and the director to mold and shape.
Q) What made you want to be a part of the game – outside of its incredible popularity?
A) I’m drawn to well rounded, interesting characters and quality writing. Vanguard is a story that I was particularly drawn to. Obviously being involved in such a popular franchise has a draw, as you know that there will be a passionate audience already established. The creative team at sledgehammer and creative director, Dave Swenson, were people I wanted to work with for some time, so it was really an easy decision.
Q) What is it about voiceover work for this particular role that you found particularly challenging?
A) This job was both voice over and performance capture. Though, in general, I find the most challenging part of voice work doing battle chatter. This is essentially the one-liners that are featured throughout the game which are projected at high volume. If you haven’t trained your voice properly it can be very taxing. Working with good directors like JB [Blanc] makes the work a whole lot easier.
Q) What are some scenes in the game that you worked on that were most memorable for you?
A) One scene in particular when our team gets caught by the Nazi’s, Dan Donohue’s character Freisinger interrogates our team. Watching his performance during that sequence was an absolute joy.
Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan feedback have you been receiving to the work you did for Call of Duty: Vanguard?
A) So far, it’s been extremely positive. People seem to really connect with Riggs and appreciate his humor. I’ve streamed the game on my Twitch channel tv/martincopping. Sharing that experience live with an audience was very special.
Q) We also love your on screen work. What are some upcoming projects that you have been busy working on?
A) My directorial feature debut The Dunes is set for a 2022 release. I also wrote, produced and performed in the film and I am very excited to share it with the world. I also have a graphic novel being developed and multiple film projects in the pipeline.
Q) Do you have a preference when it comes to being on camera or doing voicework?
A) Not really. They’re different aspects of the same craft as far as I’m concerned.
Q) Who is someone you have yet to work with that you would love to direct or share a scene with?
A) Gary Oldman, [Sylvester] Stallone, Meryl [Streep].
Q) You’re an actor, producer and director. Is there anything else in the industry that you would like to try your hand at?
A) I grew up in the industry and spent years working as crew. I’ve checked pretty much every box in some capacity. Now, I just focus on where I’m passionate, writing, directing, production and performance. I would like to score a film at some point as that would be a big challenge for me.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the work you do?
A) Thank you for your support. I’m extremely grateful for it!
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