CHRISTINA ORJALO TALKS DEATHSTALKER

Behind the Coastline

You are reading an independently published interview-series published and carefully curated by Swedish pop-culture journalist Daniel John. Ever since its start in 2015, the core curiosity remains the same, surfing the creative currents of music, film, fashion and everything else on the pop-radar, catching the waves of culture as creative

Culture Coast TalksDaniel John

Starting out in film as a little girl, how do you reflect on those early days on sets surrounded by big stars?

I feel seriously fortunate to have experienced busy sets at such a young age. I genuinely have only fond memories, piggy-backs from production assistants, trading secret snacks with directors, those kinds of things. It’s funny, when you’re little you do not really comprehend what it means to be working with a big name or on a big project. Or at least that was the case for me. Looking back, little Christina really was just having the best time.

Perhaps not quite as early as you were actually on set, but how early did you really know it in your heart that you were going to lead this slightly dramatic life?

Well honestly, I had so much fun shooting my first feature that when we wrapped I told my parents I had to do it again. The entire experience of creating something was what drew me in, and I’m grateful both my mom and dad were super supportive and never pushy about it, it was always my call what path I wanted to pursue. As I got older though, I could never shake that feeling that came with performing and being a part of something. So in a way, I was hooked from the get go! I knew that whether it was through film or TV or in theatrical capacity, I was an actor.

You’ve worked both on screen and in the theatre, acting, writing, and directing. Where do you feel most in your element?

I feel like acting in general is what I am most familiar with, as it is what I have done the longest, but all these creative outlets intrigue me. I find myself jumping around. Sometimes I am on a writing streak, and other times I won’t write for months, it’s really situational for me. If I have the spark of an idea, it will typically consume me until I can either write, direct, or act it into fruition.

Even with your early and varied acting career, ‘Deathstalker’ is probably unlike anything you've done before, it is such an ode to its era, rooted in that schlocky, cheesy Roger Corman imprint. What was it like stepping into such a wild playground, to revitalize this franchise again?

"Playground" really is the operative word! The world of 'Deathstalker' is remarkably unique and to be a part of it is, dare I say, an actor’s dream come true! Incredible hair- and makeup, badass costumes, insane monsters and sick stunts, it was a privilege to get to play in the world Steven revived and expanded upon. I think it is super-obvious that everyone involved was having fun when making the movie, and that is such a great and contagious feeling. Getting to run around the woods with weapons and a cape? Literally the best job ever.

While obtaining cult status for some, it’s been thirty-four years since these films were last seen and even then that fourth film flew a bit under the radar, even for past fans. How aware were you of the original 1983 cult-classic and its subsequent sequels, too?

I wasn’t familiar with the original films, but was super curious when the project came about. When I first read the breakdown I knew I wanted to be part of it. I think Steven has done an incredible job of honouring the 'Deathstalker'-legacy in a way that original fans can appreciate, while also bringing it forward in time for new and exciting adventures!

In a world of sword and sorcery, scheming sorcerers and dozens of foes, who is the slippery thief you play?

Brisbayne was the first role I ever read in the fantasy genre where I could fully see myself in her. I was very drawn to her, in an almost disarming way, she’s cunning and quick and grounded, and we’re not quite sure if we should trust her. Before she meets Deathstalker, to me she’s the type to lurk on the edge of a battle and loot whatever treasures might remain after the danger has cleared. When Deathstalker and Brisbayne cross paths though, I love that she has to weigh the cost of loyalty and decide if it is worth the danger.

Have you been on any other recent quests we can see you in?

You can catch me in the first season of CBC’s 'Saint-Pierre' as Phoebe Lakes, or more recently in Netflix’s new limited series 'Wayward'. And, who knows, maybe this is not the last we’ll see of Brisbayne! I’m currently working on some really cool projects, and am excited to share more soon.