Q&A with Actor Matthew R. Staley

Film: Under Jakob's Ladder
Actor: Matthew R. Staley
Role: Karl

Q: What attracted you to work on this film?
A: I was intrigued that this story had historical roots and I have always enjoyed the challenge of working on period films as well as the responsibility that accompanies the portrayal of historical characters. It was also refreshing to perform in an ensemble piece with a cast that had a real sense of camaraderie.

Q: Not only were you an actor in 'Under Jakob's Ladder', but you also were the Stunt Coordinator. What attracts you to stunt work?
A: I have always been an athlete and physical performer and I am attracted to stunt work because it allows one to help enhance the storytelling through one's physicality. Whether expressing emotions in a silent film through subtle acting or performing over-the-top physical comedy, I've always been the most satisfied creatively whenever I'm able to incorporate my physical abilities with my acting to help further a story.

Q: What is the most dangerous stunt you've ever done on any film or show?
A: Other than the requisite bruises, scrapes and sprains, I have been fortunate thus far to not have been seriously injured or broken any bones on a job yet. A lot of this has to do with the intense training one does as a stunt performer as well as using one's knowledge and experience about how to minimize risk. I was doing a driving scene recently where I had to slide a speeding truck towards a young boy without hitting him. There's always an element of danger in what we do, but when it involves other actors -- and children in particular -- you really have to trust your training and abilities.

Q: What or who got you started in stunts?
A: In 5th grade, I began performing with a co-ed tumbling team and was also cast in a high school play. I went on to perform in a live stunt show at a theme park which is where I met a talented stunt man named Bill Leaman who gave me my first break performing stunts on television.

Q: How did you prepare for your role as Karl?
A: I began with the typical actor's homework of breaking down the script to get at the essence of Karl. Then, I created a vivid character history for him by filling in the blanks with clues gleamed from the text, as well as with my own personal experiences and imagination. I also used music to prepare for each scene as I imagined what soundtrack might be playing inside Karl's mind to further give his character a more dynamic arc.

Q: What was your favorite line of dialogue or scene from this movie?
A: I'll have to let you know after I've seen the completed film! I'm guessing it will probably be something Yasha-related...

Q: The most challenging scene for you?
A: The scene where Jakob [played by Jeff Stewart] speaks with Karl after everyone else is asleep was an important one for me. Given all that he had been through, I justified that Jakob would know that Karl was still awake in the dark because he heard him crying. Emotional scenes are always challenging to film, but I was able to get some real emotion going that sustained me through each take of the scene and I feel that I did Karl justice in doing so.

Q: Any anecdotes from working on the movie set?
A: I remember being taken very much by Peter Iasillo Jr. and his commitment to his character, Vovik. Peter already had such a great look and never broke character between takes while he was on set; always speaking in Vovik's voice and shuffling around with his character's spoon. I didn't realize that Peter didn't actually speak with an accent until filming had been underway for quite a while -- that's how dedicated he was! I can appreciate it when actors sometimes find it easier to stay within a character's voice than to put it on only when the camera is rolling.

Q: Who are your influences as an actor?
A: I admire the physicality of performers like Charlie Chaplin, Tony Azito, Michael Jackson, and Jackie Chan; as well as actors like Gary Oldman who can seemingly physically transform himself in every role that he does. I've been blessed by acting teachers such as Tom Arthur and Wynn Handman who have encouraged my physicality while guiding me on my quest to always find truth in my acting. And, of course, I've been influenced by every other actor with whom I've ever had the pleasure of working.