SERENE FENSOM TALKS WRATH OF DRACULA

Interviewed by Culture Coast Talks editor Daniel John. Interview transcripts might have been edited for length and clarity.

This film brings the audience to Transylvania for a different take on the classic novel by Bram Stoker. How would you conclude your stay being on this set, including your character's brief sightseeing at Castle Dracula?

'Wrath of Dracula' is my first featured-credit as a budding actor and, although, it was only a small role it made me realise that this is what I want to do as my career. I originally sent in a self tape to the director auditioning for the lead role, however I looked too young for the role but the director was impressed by how quickly I sent in the tape and my "transylvanian" accent that he managed to write that small role in especially for me. The set-design was amazing and Steve is an amazing director. I was nervous but determined to put on a good performance only if it was for a few moments. And Steve helped me achieve that. I don’t think my character was too taken away by the spectacular castle, as she was too busy being scared for her life!

Your performance is such a vital part in setting the tone of this story, and your character becomes this example of how the mysterious count is putting an entire village in fear. Yet you also don't get a lot of screen time to do so?

As my character didn’t really have her own narrative in the film I was more concerned about the physical portrayal of blood-draining fear that my character was feeling as opposed to her backstory. If I'm ever given the chance to play a lead or a supporting role I look more deeply into how that character leads their life, and why they behave in a certain manner. 

Released in the spring of 1897, the original 'Dracula'-novel is now just over 127 years old. What do you think it is that keeps us fascinated about these characters and story after all this time?

I think human’s are generally fascinated by monsters and the unknown. The idea that there are unexplainable phenomenons and beings walking among us is a frightening but thrilling thought. Horror always sells and this is why. 

I guess good stories will always live on, as will good characters. Are there anything in particular you'd love to sink your teeth into?

Personally, I'm more into real life stories as opposed to science fiction and horror. With regard to horror, I think the scariest thing that walks among us is other human beings, not a monster that hides under your bed at night. Drama or thrillers and narratives with a gobsmacking twist are definitely up there with what I’d like to be involved in if the chance ever arose. I have also thought about comedies, although it is quite hard to portray as some humour is of an acquired taste. 

What do you do to take your mind off booking roles?

The acting industry is incredibly over-saturated, there is a over abundance of talent and not a lot of work, most of the time I'm out of work but I do not let this get to me, in my free time I enjoy working out, as I believe a healthy body is a healthy mind, and focusing on other aspects in my life. Such as my job as a teaching assistant for children in performing arts.

You also work as a commercial model?

I never considered commercial modeling as a career path but after being scouted one day, I thought that this could just be another great way to learn more about the entertainment industry as well as getting the chance to act in commercials and experience a professional set. In this type of industry networking plays a huge role. It’s not necessarily what you know but who you know. 

Are you confident in that those opportunities you seek will be available in casting?

I have no clue what the future holds for me, in terms of casting opportunities, I have learnt it’s best to take things a day at a time. You are always learning new things which are beneficial steps towards the career you hope for. All you can do is try.

Do you ever see yourself producing your own projects?

As for producing my own things, not so much. However I'm producing and acting in a mini comedy play based on the cost of living which is a huge crisis today, it will be a broadcast of two politicians informing the general public how to deal with the cost of living, whilst being completely blasé to what life is like without riches.