First and foremost, Nathan started out by calling me Zakaria (which is completely awesome). Extremely easy to talk to and a very laid back guy, Nathan Baesel gave me some insight on roles, inspiration and growing up around the world of acting! Here is some Q&A from the man BEHIND THE MASK: THE RISE OF LESLIE VERNON
HMF: What is it that initially got you into acting/show business?
NB: My family did church plays, holiday musicals that kind of thing growing up. Then my older brothers did theater in high school and I did anything they did.
HMF: It’s always nice when family is involved as well! Which role that you have had are you most proud of?
NB: Leslie Vernon of course. I’ve done a lot of theater projects that have been breakthrough experiences, but BTM offered an unbelievable opportunity to have a breakthrough experience in an unusually public way. The film’s reach gets more impressive every year.
HMF: How did you end up getting the role?
NB: Audition. One of the few projects where you read the script, you’re excited about it. You book it and it turns out even better than you imagined.
HMF: I couldn’t agree more. It was such a breath of fresh air. Is horror a genre that you have always loved? (to preface, the answer provided is one of the coolest answers I have ever received)
NB: It’s a genre I’ve always respected because I’ve always feared it. Like the ocean. (HOW AWESOME IS THAT ANSWER???)
HMF: That’s a very good way to put it. What would you say is your favorite horror film and why?
NB: I just watched The Exorcist again last weekend. Watched it with my 14 year old. His first time. That thing still packs a punch.
HMF: Do you have any upcoming projects that you are excited for? What does your future hold for you with acting?
NB: I get more out of teaching than acting these days but I’m steering my acting studio, Deviate Studios toward projects that’ll offer the chance to work with my students as an acting partner. That’ll be fun. (https://www.deviatestudios.com/)
HMF: Can you see yourself working in the horror genre again?
NB: Sure. I’m in no rush though. The right project might come along in time.
HMF: Who are some of the actors that you admire or pay particular attention to?
NB: I just saw a fantastic performance by Janice Rule in The Chase. An interesting though not great movie but it featured some great acting and my introduction to Rule who out-shined Brando. I’m looking forward to checking out more of her work.
HMF: Lastly (I usually ask) what are your top 5 favorite films of all time? If you HAD to choose?
NB: Godfather: Part 1, Die Hard, The Hunt for Red October, Amadeus and The Big Lebowski
Nathan is a super cool guy and very relaxed! Was a massive pleasure to speak with him and very kind that he took the time out of his schedule to speak with us! Hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did! Stay scared all!