Tongayi Chirisa – Palm Springs

By starrymag | July 26, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

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

 

A) Recent project that I am working on is the second season of the Netflix Sci-Fi show “Another Life.” Still awaiting to hear when production will start back up, due to the COVID situation.

 

Q) Please tease the premise for the movie Palm Springs.

 

A) Palm Springs follows Nyles (Andy Samberg) who meets Sarah (Cristin Milioti) at a wedding but things get really complicated as they are unable to escape each other and themselves.

 

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

 

A) Andy Samberg! I love his comedic style and totally relate to it. So, just to be working with him was everything and more!

 

Q) Talk about sharing scenes with Andy Samberg. Was there much room for improv during those moments?

 

A) With our scenes not so much. I would say that our scenes were the sticking points in the sense that they were essential to keeping the narrative on track and slightly more grounded. So, the room to play wouldn’t have helped the story along that much.

Q) What were some of your favorite moments from filming?

 

A) Swimming in the pool. It was really hot, so I was not complaining that I got to hang in pool between takes.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan feedback have you received to the movie?

 

A) People have really loved it. Many of my friends proudly post on their media platforms and tag me, so it’s been pretty cool to witness that.

 

Q) What do you think it is about this movie that will make it a fast fan favorite sci-fi comedy?

 

A) It’s familiar ground, but with a fresh twist and outlook. It’s catering to a new generation that may have not watched the classic Groundhog Day Along with the witty scientific jargon in there that Cristin Milioti effortlessly explains, it does make for a wonderful collaboration of science and comedy, don’t you think!?

 

Q) We’ll be seeing you soon in the new series “Another Life.” What can you tease about the character you’ll be playing?

 

A) I am excited about this one. My character, Richard Ncube, is a decorated veteran of many Earth campaigns. Having seen active duty, he is very adept at making life-or-death decisions and dealing with the fallout after he’s saved your life.

 

Q) We loved your arc on “iZombie.” What did you personally take away from your time on the series?

 

A) Do the work, be consistent, be thorough, be intentional and deliver with every take. Never compromise the integrity of the work otherwise it will show.

 

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

 

A) I wouldn’t call them fans. They are peers and friends and to them I say that I am grateful for the love and kindness they show me… I am truly appreciative of them and may we continue to grow together and have fun as I explore all kinds of amazing roles – let’s go!!