Interviews
Shenae Grimes-Beech – Newlywed and Dead
By: Jamie Steinberg
Q) What are the recent projects that you have been working on?
A) I have done quite a few Hallmark and Lifetime movies over the last year. Then, I’ve also done a couple indie thrillers and horror movies. I just recently launched a new lifestyle blog http://www.lostinlala.com.
Q) What is the focus of your blog?
A) It’s an honest depiction of life seen through my eyes. It’s got food, home décor, fashion, beauty and some travel content. Also, it has some food for thought.
Q) What made you want to be a part of the film Newlywed and Dead?
A) It was a fun, American Psycho-esque story. I love creepy, psychological thrillers so it was right up my ally.
Q) How was your character Kristen Ward described to you?
A) She was a sweet, small town girl who kind of fell for this whirlwind relationship with a wealthy more sophisticated man. She was swept off her feet until she realizes everything isn’t as it seems and it all starts to unravel.
Q) Was there anything you added to the character that wasn’t originally scripted for you?
A) I don’t know. I think I maybe added a sarcastic toughness that wasn’t necessarily scripted there.
Q) How did you prepare for the role?
A) I think I just dove right in.
Q) How do you get into character?
A) It depends on the project and what is required of me. I honestly try to find a piece of myself in each person I play and find a way to relate.
Q) What did you find challenging about the project?
A) It’s quite an out there premise with this guy having a type based on his mother, his baggage and how he treats his relationships…Kind of finding where that was based in reality was a struggle sometimes. It is something you have to make sense for yourself and give into.
Q) Was there instant chemistry when the cast began working together?
A) With those movies, it’s so quick. The shooting schedule is so tight that you have to get in there and hammer through it all.
Q) What scenes are you most looking forward to fans seeing?
A) I think there is a kind of heavier action sequence towards the end, which is always fun. I’m eager to see how it all turns out.
Q) Do have to do any stunts for the movie?
A) Not really crazy stunts, but a little bit. It was fun.
Q) What was it like working with Christopher Russell?
A) Fine. He was a nice guy.
Q) What are some behind the scenes moments you enjoyed?
A) That’s a good question. That was my first time shooting in Vancouver so exploring the city was a highlight for sure. The towns outside of downtown Vancouver are beautiful and getting to spend some time outdoors (which Vancouver is known for) was awesome. I got to horseback ride in the movie, which was super cool since I don’t horseback ride that often. I actually got quite comfortable on the horse, which was fun.
Q) What is about Newlywed and Dead that will make viewers want to tune in?
A) I think it is one of those really weird, out there crazy stories. The guy is super dark and mysteriously cuckoo. It seems like my character is getting sucked into this dark path and she has to be strong and get herself out of it. It’s a good strong female lead.
Q) Will you be sharing photos from being on set or live tweeting?
A) I doubt it. I have a new phone so I don’t have any photos at all from when the movie was filmed. We shot it a year ago and normally it is not that long a turn around. But I don’t have any photos.
Q) Do you enjoy watching yourself on screen?
A) I never watch myself on screen. That’s also why I wouldn’t be live tweeting because I don’t watch the things I am in. I did at the beginning of “90210” because it was my first big thing. Apart from that, I avoid it more often than not.
Q) Do you keep in touch still with anyone from “90210?”
A) A little bit. Some of us check in from time to time. I’m actually going to a charity event that AnnaLynne McCord is hosting.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) Thank you so much! Fan support is what keeps me working and keeps me happy. So, I’m endlessly happy for the people who have supported my career for the past thirteen years!
Watch Newlywed and Dead on Saturday, July 2nd at 8/7c on Lifetime
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