Sasha Roiz – Departure

By starrymag | October 6, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) For US audiences, please tell us the premise for the series “Departure.”

 

A) A commercial flight goes down over the Atlantic and so begins a very high paced and intriguing Whodunnit in six parts.

 

Q) How was your character Pavel Bartok originally described to you?

 

A) As the Russian Elon Musk. A Soviet era engineer now turned Russian Oligarch.

 

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

 

A) Mostly some stylish turtlenecks.

 

Q) Going into “Departure,” were you looking forward to sharing a scene(s) with someone in particular?

 

A) Absolutely! Albeit a short scene, I had a chance to meet and work with the great Christopher Plummer. A consummate professional and a true gentleman. He exceeded my expectations.

 

Q) In Bartok’s office we see some photos on desk/behind it. Were they taken/made specifically for the series?

 

A) They were. I provided production with some photos of my younger self and they incorporated them into some Soviet era scenarios.

 

Q) Bartok mentions he has scars on his body that keep him uncomfortable from taking off his shirt. In what way were they were described to you?

 

A) They didn’t really factor into the performance or the story line so much; and knowing Bartok, that could have been an attempt to manipulate. But, just as everyone in “Departure,” he carries emotional and perhaps, physical scars.

 

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

 

A) The scene in the hospital with Kendra (Archie Panjabi) was a great scene to work on. Stripped of his luxuries and excesses, Bartok had a chance to be vulnerable and real. It doesn’t last long, but enough to connect with Kendra and win her confidence.

 

Q) How did you shake off a long day of filming this series?

 

A) Hotel mini bars are full of surprises.

 

Q) What do you think it is about “Departure” that will make it a fast fan favorite action-thriller?

 

A) It is truly a great thriller. A wonderful mystery that will keep audiences guessing. Beautiful visuals and directing by the very talented T.J. Scott and a magnificent cast.

 

Q) You often do a lot of dramatic roles. What is it about this genre that continues to draw you to it?

 

A) I’m not sure if I’m drawn to it or if it’s drawn to me. I tend to play a lot of heavies and I assume that has to do to a great extent with my size and look. But when the roles are textured and layered and the story is compelling, that’s a joy for any actor.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the instant fan feedback you’ll be receiving from US audiences?

 

A) I’ve never been one to read or pay much mind to critics or feedback. I hope the work speaks for itself and that audiences connect to it and enjoy it. For me, social media is a great platform to help promote projects or causes that I’m passionate about.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the work you do?

 

A) To know that I have always been grateful for the countless people who have shown me so much support and kindness over my career. It is one of the greatest gifts of my life to feel so connected globally.