Shondrella Avery – Deja Vu

Q.  What are some of the recent projects that you’ve been working on?

A.  I launched Nightline’s new segment, “What Keeps You Up At Night,” where I wrote and performed about the fleas I got from the unwrapped blankets on the plane! Horrific!

Q.  What can you tell us about the premise for the film Deja Vu and about your character?

A.  Action Suspense Thriller! If you know Tony Scott’s movies then you are in for a ride! I play Denzel’s secretary on a mission to help him solve the case.

Q.  What made you want to be a part of this film?

A.  Tony Scott called and asked me to work with him again! I was thrilled; I mean who says no to Tony Scott?  This is our second movie together, the first one was Domino.

Q.  Do you have a really memorable moment from working on this project?

A.  Yes, the moment I stepped on the set and saw Denzel Washington in the flesh, up close and personal, and he did “the walk,” that was pretty memorable! Oh, and of course my scenes are with Denzel so staying focused came easily only when Tony yelled “Action,” before then, butterflies!!

Q.  Why should viewers take the time to check out the film?

A. Clearly to see me smile! Oh, and because it will be a kick-butt rollercoaster with a certain someone who is just simply brilliant by the initials DW; but seeing me may be way more interesting!

Q.  Was anything about your role challenging?

A.  Yes! I played Denzel’s secretary, and I was grappling with that because I felt I was able to give so much more than giving messages.  So, I asked if I could promote myself to “Deputy Secretary,” with a gun in a skirt! It went over well with Tony, but it took a little more convincing with Denzel. I had to tell him my reputation was on the line with my ten year old brother Adonnis, at first he chuckled, but then relented! Thank goodness he had a soft spot for ten year olds and I think he liked my  “innocent smile.”  Now, let’s just see if it makes it to the movie! Fingers crossed!!

Q.  You have quite a flair for comedic timing.  Is this something that comes naturally for you or are you constantly working at it?

A.  I have to admit; it comes naturally for me.  I am the eldest of eleven and being funny was/is just part of my life! It’s hereditary. All the credit goes to my mother because she has me in stitches daily.  The thing is, she’s just too shy, so I had to take over and make something out of this talent!

Q.  What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A.  High Noon Tea and watching movies! Tea keeps you quiet and that is something I rarely am; quiet. I mean, as you can see I am talking up a storm via email.  If you were on the phone; forget about it! This way I am quiet for a couple of hours and a couple of hours in the movie.  It all works out nicely to store up energy to start bumpin’ my gums again!

Q.  Do you have a latest obsession?  Are you into any particular book, sport, music group or activity?

A.  Obsession 1: Ordering one gallon tins of “Caramel Crisp” from Chicago’s own “Garrett’s Popcorn.”  Unbelievable!  Obsession 2: not latest, always, is “Prison Break”: Wentworth Miller! Hot! I am reading The Audacity of Hope by Barak Obama. Amazing! I am a die hard Lakers Fan, Kobe 24!  I love John Mayer and Mary J. Blige; but they are not in a group! and activity.  My friends and I are taking a three series cooking class for the holidays.  I have skills, I can cook, I am the eldest of eleven but these girls need my support and I am a team player!

Q.  What would you like to say to your fans and supporters?

A.  All jokes aside, thoughts, expressions, delight and appreciation cannot form into a word or phrase beyond the obvious “Thank you for your support.” That would be too typical and my journey to this point has been far from typical.  So, I will part by saying I owe my “teammates” hugs, kisses and prayers for each and everyone of them for believing, sticking and supporting me on this road to the top! I will infinitely be mindful of my cheerleaders! Until I find the right words; please accept this, humble gratitude, from my heart!