Let's get started with my questions :-)
1) Were you familiar with Tanya Huff's books prior to appearing on the show? Norman is an actual character in her first book. Did you try to match the character exactly from the book or try to make Norman your own?
I wasn't familiar with Tanya Huff's books until I found out that I was going to play the character of Norman. I did my research and found out that the show was based on a series of books written by Tanya Huff. I have always been a fan of other Vampire movies and books so I was already interested in the subject matter. I bought the first book entitled "Blood Price" and read it. I thought it was really good, and I became even more excited to play the part of Norman. Whenever I play a role that has originated from a book I always try to honor the author's writing of the character. It is always important to honor the creator's choices and ideas but I also try to bring a lot of myself to the role.
There is a lot of Michael Eklund in Norman. The scripts for Blood Ties already changed a lot of things from the books, so I knew I had some freedom in making the character of Norman my own, which I think is something you have to do when you play a character. But I thought it was important to keep the essence of how Norman was written in the book. Norman wasn't a bad guy, he was just really lonely and a little lost. I
always kind of felt sorry for Norman. I think he just needed some good friends.
2) How would you describe your character? How did he change from the pilot to your most recent episode?
The evolution of Norman has been very fun and interesting to explore. Norman is a very misunderstood, troubled soul. He doesn't really have anyone other than himself. I feel a lot of sadness in Norman. Everything in Norman is routed in some kind of sadness. He has a lot of love inside him with nowhere to put it or give it to. Obviously the character has changed a lot since the pilot. Not only physically but also emotionally and psychologically. He was already slightly going mad from the beginning of the pilot to the end of the pilot. But now even more Norman has really lost himself. But if you look closely the true Norman is still hiding underneath all the glam. And even though now he has more strength and power Norman is still very very sad inside. He has more power now, but how he chooses to use the power is still misguided.
3) Had you worked with any of the cast or crew prior to Blood Ties?
This is the first time I have had the pleasure of working with any of the cast. I have worked with a number of the crew before. And I must say that the crew of Blood Ties is some of the best in the business. It is such a fun set to work on. As an actor the feeling of a safe, and encouraging environment to work in is very important. And the cast and crew of Blood Ties create that safe and trusting environment. Working with Kyle, Dylan, Gina and Christina has been a real pleasure. They are all great people and very fun to work with. We have had many laughs together. The writers of the show write me the greatest material to play and the directors that I have had the pleasure to work with such as Allan Kroeker and Peter DeLuise always encourage you to try things and inspire you to be the best you can be. I honestly can say that everyone working on Blood Ties is a class act.
4) After filming your first 2 episodes, did you know that your character was returning for another episode later on in the season? What’s the story?
When I filmed the first two episodes of Blood Ties I originally did not know
that the character of Norman would be coming back. You always hope when you play such an interesting character such as Norman that the character may come back, but I really did not know at the time the future of Norman. I remember on my last day when we were shooting the pilot that someone told me that Norman would be coming back,
but I had no idea to what extent. And I can say that at the time I had no idea that Norman would transform and go in the direction that he did.... but I am happy that it did!
5) What's your personal favorite Norman Scene? Why?
Wow...what a hard question. I think my favorite Norman scene or scenes are
the scenes with Coreen, played by Gina Holden. I love the relationship that Norman has with Coreen. Norman really cares for Coreen and tries really hard to make Coreen like him. Gina is such an emotionally giving actor that anytime I have a scene with her I know it is going to be filled with something more than what was written on the page. My favorite stories are love stories; I guess you could say that I am a romantic. So any scenes with Norman and Coreen are my favorites. And a couple little pieces of trivia for
everyone.... in the pilot, there was a scene in the pub where Norman is sketching Coreen. I actually drew that picture of Gina that is in Norman's sketch book and surprised her with it on set. And there was another scene in the pilot where Norman convinces Coreen to get into his new Porsche that he got to impress her. In the scene Norman was supposed to chloroform Coreen. When we shot the scene I accidentally gave Gina a black eye. One of my rings accidentally hit Gina in the eye. I felt very guilty so after that I refused to wear rings while playing Norman so if you look closely in the new episodes I wrapped blue elastics around my fingers instead...they are a lot safer.
6) Who portrayed Norman better - Christina or Kyle?
That is an impossible question to answer. The real question would have to be who portrayed Norman portraying themselves best? Each one of them played it brilliantly. Christina had Norman's walk down perfect and Kyle nailed Norman awkwardness and childlike traits. I thought they both did a terrific job.
7) What was more challenging to work with - the red eyes or the long fingernails? Any mishaps?
The long fingernails were by far the most challenging. I was always snagging them on things; it made it hard to eat food with or basically do anything with. It was pretty much like you had one hand all day. We would also keep losing the fingernails because they would always pop off. I think I lost one in my soup once. I actually loved wearing the red contact lenses. I would put those in and wear them for the rest of the day. Sometimes I had them in for over 10 hours. When wearing them they gave everything a kind of rosy color glow, and I'd like to think that is how Norman sees the world.
8) If (When) we get a Season 2, can we expect to see Norman keep his last words “I’ll be back”?
Oh you know that you have not seen the last of Norman. Norman will not rest
until he has what he wants. I can't say when you will see him next but when you do you can be sure that it will be sweet and when I say sweet I mean wicked awesome!
9) What’s the funniest thing that happened on the set?
Did I mention that I ate one of my own nails while eating my soup?!!! Some
would say that was funny. I on the other hand was quite worried... you don't know where Norman’s nails have been.
10) Any lasting memories from your experience on Blood Ties?
I will always remember the 4 hours it took to put those red extensions in my hair and the 2 months I had to keep them in my hair. I actually got very fond of them, but I can't say it helped me get other work while I had them. But seriously I will always remember the wonderful group of people that it takes to make the great show Blood Ties. They have a real family vibe going on there and they always make you feel welcome. It is by far one of the funnest roles I have ever played and I will cherish those memories of the fun we had forever.
11) How does it feel to be the Villain Fan Favorite?
I wasn't aware that I was the Villain Fan Favorite. Thank you very much. I
guess you could say it feels pretty darn good. It makes me happy that people love the character of Norman because Norman is kind of special to me and acting and entertaining the people that watch and love the show is why I do it. I never want to let any of you
down. There are plenty of other things you could be doing with that hour of time that you spend watching the show, so I always want to make sure it is going to be worth it. Thank you all for supporting the show.... and Norman. Because that is all Norman really wants and needs -- love.
12) What are your upcoming projects?
I just finished a wonderful film that I am very proud of called Walk All Over Me. It is about a girl played by Leelee Sobieski who runs away from her past and takes over the identity of her friend played by Tricia Helfer, who is a dominatrix. I play a character who is physically, emotionally, and psychologically abused and who is an ex- convict for a crime he didn't commit. And I cause Leelee's, and Tricia's characters a lot of trouble while I myself try to break out of the cage of a life I live and the past that I am trying to leave behind. I am also about to go back and work on a television show called Intelligence where I play an undercover narc. I have been very fortunate to play such a variety of characters... it keeps things fresh and fun.
From DreamVision: Michael, thank you so much for giving us an interview and agreeing to answer our questions! I love Norman! There were a lot of special effects involved with your character; did you find those hard to work around? Did you have to act to a
blue screen for any of your scenes?
Thank you DreamVision for your love and support for Norman. Yes there are a
lot of special effects involved with the character Norman. I did not have to act to a blue screen. They put in all the special effects afterwards. Don't ask me how they do it... I have no idea; the people who do the special effects are some of the best in the business. When we shoot the show sometimes you have no idea what it is going to end up looking like. All you really have is your imagination to work with. But I can tell you that it is a lot of fun!
From freg: Hi Michael! So excited about eppie 12! Woot woot. Thanks so much for coming to play with us and giving us a chance to pick your brain a bit. BTW.. I
loved Norman so much I just want to put him in a creepy little box and keep him forever! okie dokie… First of all I'm a horror/scifi junkie. What genre do you prefer to watch and which do you prefer to work in?
Hey freg. I was excited about episode 12 as well! Woot woot! And I am
sure Norman would love to live in a creepy little box...just as long as you feed him
regularly...He seems to like apples from the trash. My favorite genre that I like watching for movies is drama. I am a sucker for a sappy love story. However my taste in television shows seems to be more in the lines of fantasy. My favorite television shows are Lost, Hero's, 24 and Prison Break. My favorite genre that I prefer to work in is the "anything that employs me variety". I love working in all genres. And I think it is important for any actor to be able to do all kinds of things and styles.
I recently had a great role on Smallville. That was a lot of fun to work on. I have also done a lot of horror type films, which are also a blast because they are so crazy and intense! I have done sci-fi and enjoyed myself very much when I was on Battlestar Galactica. And comedy is always crazy fun. I love working on everything. I'm an entertainment junkie as well, so whatever genre it is, as long as the character is interesting and the story is worth telling, I am happy. I love to spread out and do it all if I can.... except adult entertainment. I just won't do it.... and no one can make me.
From Lorelai: Thanks for answering our questions! We're all eagerly awaiting the return of Norman and can't wait for this Sunday's episode! Norman is such an interesting and twisted character; what do you like the most about playing him, or find the most
challenging?
The best thing I like about playing Norman is that he keeps changing. He is
like this mound of clay that keeps taking new shapes. He is always fun to explore. His twistedness is what makes him so interesting to play, and at the same time is the same thing that makes him challenging to play. To play someone whose psyche operates in such an unusual place you must yourself try to or make it seem like you have changed your own psyche so much as to create a wrong impression of yourself and alter the meanings of simple situations. Norman you see is very socially awkward and something
simple to most is not for Norman.
From Vampire_Rat: Thanks for answering our questions! Are you going to be Playing Norman again next season? And do you know ASL? I’m asking that cause I am a deaf fan.
First of all I want to thank you Vampire Rat for the fabulous website that you made for me. No one has ever done that for me before. So I was very excited to see it. Thank you VERY much! I will send you lots of great pictures if you want. And unfortunately I do not know any sign language. As far as if I will be playing Norman again next season, all I can say is no one else is going to play Norman that's for sure.... I won't have it. Everyone hasn't seen the last of Norman that is for sure.
From Treisme: Hiya Michael. Thank for being one of the creepier "bad guys" and thankies thankies for agreeing to be interviewed. (Normans not a bad guy…
he's just misunderstood … that's my stance and I'm sticking to it). My question is… When did you first realize you wanted to be a performer and when you realized that what did you do to prepare to be an actor? (classes, training, etc)
That is a very long and convoluted story. I will tell you the short version of it. I first realized that I wanted to be an actor when I was believe it or not... 4 years old. I remember when I went to my first movie as a little kid. It was then that I immediately fell in love with cinema. I was hooked. However I grew up in a smaller city where it was not easy to get into the business. I always fell into the art side of things. So as I got older I began studying art. I still always wanted to be an actor but I now realize looking back that it was not time. I went to art school instead and studied painting. But it wasn't until I got a summer job as an usher in a movie theater where I met the love of my life who was also the popcorn girl and she (Megan Bennett) was studying acting. Megan taught me that nothing was impossible and that everyone's dreams were possible.
So after that summer I dropped out of art school and started on the road to becoming an actor. We moved to Vancouver B.C. Canada because we knew that Vancouver was the center of the industry here in Canada. It was hard leaving our families, but we knew that we had to give it a shot. Once we got here, I took an acting class for a little while, I listened lots, and learned lots from my teacher and other actors and then when I felt I was ready I found myself the best agent in Vancouver. I started auditioning and that was the beginning to it all...
From Night_Walker6: Hey Michael! I loved your performances as Norman so far! Thank you for this opportunity! My question is: What kinds of things do you think about when you are putting on your villain face? Thanks again, and I look forward to the 4/20 episode.
I have a villain face? I am not sure what I think about. It changes from scene to scene. In the beginning Norman's objective was to get Coreen to like him. Everything in him was to get what he wants. In the pilot he decides to search out help by conjuring up a demon to help him. Every time he calls up the demon he more and more loses himself to Astaroth. He is slowly going mad, and losing any essence of his soul. Norman truly believes he belongs with Coreen. So I guess what I think about is as the episodes go on is what I would do to get something that I care about more than anything and removing any of my own morals in the process.
In the episode when Norman comes back, he has changed. He is no longer human, he is stronger, he is more powerful, he has new talents, but underneath it all Norman is buried. There may be some human spirit left in him but Norman is too messed up by this point to feel anything anymore. Norman doesn't feel like a bad person or feels like he is doing anything wrong. Once I make that judgment about him that he is bad I think I would lose any truthfulness in the character. So I focus on his wants and needs but just raise the stakes in what he would do to get them. I really don't think about anything in the process but just let Norman take over and he steers me in the direction he wants to go. Sometimes after a scene I am even surprised what comes out. I never plan anything before playing a scene. You have an idea how you want the scene to go, but then
when it comes down to the moment, I really just give myself over to moment and the stakes of the scene. Sometimes Norman says things that were not scripted and afterwards I wonder where that came from. For example, in the last scene in the episode entitled Norman, when Norman says to Vicki, "you can have anything you want.... even him." When I said "even him," that was not scripted.... that just came out in the moment. Norman surprises me time and time again.
From Khaos13: I am a looking forward to the episode on the 20th. I love the video game Postal and am very happy that you are going to be in the movie of the game. Is there anything you can tell us about the movie? Also, Is there any actor, actress, or director
you will like to work with? Thank you for answering questions for us Michael.
Yes! Postal the movie. I actually just saw it at a screening. All I can really say is that it is absolutely crazy. Some people will love it and some people will hate it. There are
some things in that movie that will completely shock a lot of people. The movie definitely does not lack in the violence department, or humor. So if you like that kind of
thing, you will probably love this movie, and if you don't well.... enough said. As far as what actors I would like to work with… I love so many actors. There are a lot of new up and coming actors that I have noticed that I think are going to be around for a long time, which is very exciting. But some of my favorites are Sam Rockwell, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro and Mark Ruffulo. I would love to work with any of them. I had the opportunity to work with Al Pacino not to long ago. That was a dream come true. I can
at least cross him off my list.
From the_blood_runs_deep: hey Michael! Thanks for agreeing to an interview! Can't wait to see " Norman" this Sunday! Here's my question: how was it playing the bad guy; do you prefer being a bad guy over a good one?
Playing a "bad" guy is definitely different than playing one of the good
guys. But like I mentioned before in Night Walker 6's question, when I play a "bad" guy I never make the judgment that the character is bad. Bad people in real life don't believe that they are bad. They believe they are doing the right thing... which is why true bad people are really scary. I really like playing a mix of "good" and "bad". It prevents you from becoming typecast in the business. But I think bad guy parts are the more interesting and fun roles to play. They are filled with more layers, and problems. A character with no problems or conflicts within themselves is quite boring and unrealistic. Everyone in the world has some kind of issues, or something they are trying to deal with. The bad guys are just dealing with more extreme circumstances. And that is always fun to explore.
From MmsmcMillen: Thank you for allowing us to ask you questions. How do you prepare for a part, whether it be a bad guy, good guy or whatever; and do you prepare
differently for different parts?
Imagination, imagination, imagination. That is all we have as actors to draw upon. As actors we of course have not gone through some of the things the character is experiencing. When preparing for the role of Norman in the pilot, I started by reading the script; then I read the book. Then I try to feel or understand what the character is going through by using whatever experiences I have from my own life. Norman was awkward, introverted, and unpopular in school. That was something I experienced a lot of when I was in school. I knew what it was like to be "uncool" in school, and not fitting in. So I started there with Norman. So every character is different and I always try to understand them as people first. All people experience, fear, love, happiness, anger, sadness, greed, envy etc..... To prepare I just try to understand their feelings and the situation they are in then go from there. It is important to me to give my characters a life and a soul. If I accomplish that then I feel the character will come to life. If I don't understand the character’s feelings or their conditions, then I will do research on that.
After that, I start to see flashes of the character in my mind. What they dress like, how they talk, how they walk. Norman has a very unique walk and speech pattern. I realized with Norman that he is just a kid in a lot of ways. It was my idea to have white streaks in his hair; and as the show continues and as he goes more mad, he gets more white streaks. When he gets sucked in the demon void at the end and then returns, his white streaks have turned red; that was very important. Every character deserves to be prepared differently. Some come easier than others. But each one of them is fun and completely different to play.
From dreadpiratejulie: Hey Michael, Julie here. How much do you enjoy working with the cast of Blood Ties?
The Blood Ties cast are so much fun to play with. They are all great people and all very talented. I miss them all and would love to work with them again. They deserve all the success they have worked so hard for.
From CC: Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer our questions. What was the auditioning process like for you to get the role of Norman? Did you have to audition more than once? Also, assuming that you are passionate about the craft, I was wondering what is it about acting that you find extremely challenging. And something you just don't really like about the business, but put up with because it is your passion. Thanks again and am looking forward to Sunday's episode.
That is a great question, which also has a great story to follow it up with. I originally auditioned for the part of Mike Celluci. Of course I didn't get it. But I guess they really liked my audition so they asked me to come be the reader for the upcoming auditions. A reader is the person who stands off camera and reads the other lines for the actors while they audition. So I spent 2 days reading for the other actors. I was there for the final auditions when they were trying to cast Mike, Vicki, and Henry. I saw Dylan, Christina, and Kyle all come in. There were all great.
So anyway, I had to read all the lines for the other characters, and one of those characters was Dave. So the producers saw me read the Dave character all day for 2 days. And for all you Dylan Neal fans out there, I can tell you Dylan is truly a great guy. In his own audition I guess he liked how I was reading the Dave character so he put me in the scene with him so that I would be on camera with him in his audition. That is something no other actor but Dylan would do. He's a terrific and genuine guy. Anyway it worked. When it came time for them to cast the part of Dave, they asked me to come in and audition for it. So I did... and as you know, I didn't get the part.
Then finally I got the call that they wanted to offer me the role of Norman. Which is interesting because they never even saw me audition for the role. So in the end I did not even audition for the role of Norman.... and since they never saw how I would play Norman I was a little nervous at first that they would not like my interpretation of the character. So that is how it all happened. It is quite of a rollercoaster of a process. But looking back on it, I am happy that it was Norman that I was given the opportunity to play; I truly believe that as actors you are meant to play the characters that you play.
Acting for me is something that I am very passionate about. I love it. I wouldn't want to do anything else. But of course there are things about the business I don't like and that I find frustrating. There are actually a few of them. One of them is the uncertainty of when you are going to work again. Another one is that sometimes the best actor does not always get the part but the one who looks the best. And finally, the attitude that some actors have. Some actors think that being an actor somehow makes them more special then other people. Everyone is equal, we are doing a job, the guy at the bank is doing a job, the guy at the grocery store is doing a job etc... there is no difference. Actors do not deserve to be treated special. It kills me sometimes when you see actors take for granted what we are so privileged to be doing. But you are right -- it is the passion for what I do that makes me keep going. I really have a lot of fun acting.... and I am aware and appreciative of every second that I am allowed to do it.
From Khaos13:I hope it is ok to use James Lipton's ten questions.
1. What is your favorite word? Retrospect
2. What is your least favorite word? Conform
3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually, or emotionally? Confidence
4. What turns you off? Disrespect
5. What is your favorite curse word? Fucker; For fucks sake!
6. What noise or sound do you love? My cat's meow
7. What noise or sound do you hate? Honking and loud motorcycles
8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Paranormal
Investigator
9. What profession would you not like to do? Politician
10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at
the Pearly Gates? "Wanna go again?"
From isilwath: Michael- First of all, congrats on the Leo nomination! And thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. I see from your bio that you have had a very varied and exciting career. Is there any part that you are especially proud of or remember
the most vividly and why? Thanks again. Take care and be safe.
Thanks! I lost.... Oh well. Being nominated for an award is always an honor and a lot of fun. We had a great time and that is the whole point with those events. But I will admit I would have loved to bring that trophy home. One of the roles that is very special to me is the same role I got nominated for. The movie is called The Entrance. It's a drama about a conscienceless, angst-ridden drug dealer who is slated for death and his attempt to pay for his sins and regain his mortality with the unwilling aid of a police detective. What he doesn't tell her is that he is trying to substitute her innocent life for his own doomed soul.... and while trying to keep his secret from her, his quests are hindered by his tormented past and the seductive 2000-year-old Satanic fallen angel, Balberith.
But it's more than a big thriller; it explores a complex character's life-and-death
struggle for redemption while undergoing this terrifying ordeal. Ryan, the embodiment of an unethical, self-serving existence, must now undertake a sudden and unexpected moral evolution. He is emotionally stripped naked by a Fallen Angel named Balberith. Ryan's lies, his half-truths, no longer matter. Instead, he must dig deep into his soul, find his strength and attempt to outwit police detective Jen Porhowski. I was interested in its exploration of a fundamental fear that someone is watching you and judging you. The most frightening part of the story is that it could happen to anyone. Ryan is full of himself and wears blinkers, living in a life of his own. He thinks the world revolves around him. He believes that he isn't committing any sins because he isn't forcing anyone to do anything; that he is simply providing a service for people. He believes people need him and what they do after he's gone is their problem. He lacks the part of the super ego that transmits commands to the ego. He lacks the moral goodness of one’s own conduct.
It was fun! This project was a great experience. Is was my first lead role in a feature film. Throughout making the film, I met a lot of great people that will be friends forever. Damon Vignale, the director of the film, is a great guy and very talented. And we have had a blast of a time traveling with the film at festivals, and the memories I have of that experience making the film with everyone I will hold onto forever. Check it out at www.theentrancemovie.com
From Anne: Aside from having a steady job and paycheck, would you have liked to do more episodes of "Alice, I Think"? That scene of you and the guys in the kiddie pool was hilarious. Hoar Hounds RULE! Come to think of it, Marcus was also all about girlfriends -- well, almost. If coffee's your passion, what's your favorite coffee at Starbucks? What kind of painting do you do? Houses -- or pictures of houses? Or abstract? Have you ever exhibited any? Do you want to? Thanks for your time.
I would have LOVED to do more episodes of "Alice I Think". It is sad
that we only got one season out of it. I really think we could have done some great work if we had another season. That kiddie pool scene was one of my favorites as well. I miss the Hoar Hounds...we will never play together again. The Princess Diana memorial concert was our last. Marcus was another great character I loved. As far as my coffee passion.... yes I do have quite an addiction to Grande Non-Fat Sugar-Free Hazelnut lattes. When I am not acting I still paint. I sell my paintings based on commission. So unfortunately I never have enough work to have a showing of my work. It is definitely something that I want to do someday. Lately I have been painting portraits. It has kind of become my specialty.
From freg: Hi Michael, it's me again. Okay… if you could do a flick with any actor/actress dead or alive who would it be and what would movie would you do? And
one more… how much do Tim Horton’s Apple Fritters rock?
That one is easy... James Dean and in any one of the three movies he made. The man was one-of-a-kind. And yes! Tim Horton's Apple Fritters rock! And when I say rock I mean totally awesome!
From Lady Afrodyte: Hello Michael, I was just curious. Was it difficult to learn the
language you had to use as Norman to call on the demons? It sounds pretty tough.
Learning all that Latin was extremely challenging. Kyle and I had a brilliant Latin speech coach on set with us. For me it was important to first learn what I was actually saying. All the Latin in the show actually makes sense. Then I wanted to get comfortable speaking the Latin. Once I did that I wanted it to seem that Norman was learning the Latin as he was going. At first reading from the book, not speaking it so well yet, then as he is slowly changing he has become more knowledgeable in demonology, the Latin is becoming easier for him. And then of course by now when Norman comes back as a demon, it has become fluid for him; it has become a second language. As an actor it has been great. I recently shot a movie called Bloodrayne 2 and I played a preacher. I threw in so much of the Latin I learned on Blood Ties. It was so useful to have that extra tool now in my toolbox. I remember when I was first learning it. I would walk the streets mumbling Latin to myself. I am pretty sure a lot of people thought I was nuts.
From SanLynn: Hi Michael, thank you so much for taking time out to answer some of our questions. I loved you as Norman, both in the pilot episodes and again tonight. I really hope we get to see Norman again. He and Astaroth are nice little recurring troublemakers for Vicki, Henry, Mike and Coreen. I'm glad I waited until I viewed tonight's episode because as soon as I finished watching, this question popped into my head: did you work with Christina and Kyle at all on mannerisms or an attitude you felt Norman might convey for their scenes when they had to portray Norman as Vicki or Norman as Henry? They both did an excellent job at throwing some Norman into their alter egos tonight. Also, do you have a dream role or project that you'd like to be involved in? As an actor perhaps or maybe another facet of the business like writing or directing? Thanks again so much for answering our questions. I hope mine make sense -- I sort of wrote a book.
Christina and Kyle are pros.... they needed very little help. I think they re-watched the pilot and picked up some Norman mannerisms. I remember talking to Kyle about how Norman would kiss Vicki. All I told him was that Norman is very awkward around woman, and that Norman's mentality is that of a teenager. Other than that Kyle just went with it. I thought he did a fantastic job. I could see the fun he was having and if you are not having fun playing Norman than you just should not be playing Norman. Kyle and
Christina had lots of fun I think, and I think it really shows. All I worked on with Christina was Norman's walk. Norman has a distinct walk. Once Christina got that down she was flying. They are both wonderful actors who love to play. It was a blast watching them do me doing them.
As far as your question about a dream project that I would like to be involved in -- I am currently working on adapting a rough draft of a novel that my wife wrote, into a script. That would be a dream come true. I would love to get that off the ground. I also see the early signs of an emerging director inside me. That is something that I would love to explore down the road. I don't think I could ever quit acting however. In front of the camera is where I am most comfortable and happy.
From starstacy: Greetings Michael! Thanks for agreeing to be interviewed! I just have to say you play your part well as you are deliciously evil as Norman! I'd like to ask a follow-up question to SanLynn's. What was it like to actually watch Kyle and Christina use 'your' mannerisms?
Deliciously evil? I like that! I got to tell you. I laughed my ass off. I thought they were so good and so funny. Kyle's little facial expressions were awesome! His kissing Vicky and licking his lips was perfect, and his giggle and his boyishness was spot on. I thought he was so fun to watch doing Norman doing Henry. Then of course Christina was brilliant as well. Watching Christina walk and strut like Norman was hilarious. She nailed the Norman swagger beautifully. I loved when she rubbed herself against Henry.
I imagined Norman doing that in Norman form.... crazy! I will have to remember that one for next time. I thought it was a great episode and felt that everyone really committed to it... Next time we will have to get Dylan in there doing Norman. That would be great!
From for_no_one1014: Hi Michael. I have to thank you for taking the time to do the interview. I liked Norman in the pilot but I just adored him in "Norman." The two questions I had in my head have already been asked (Did you work with Christina and Kyle on how to be "Normanesque"? And about watching their scenes as they played "Norman") so I'll go with another question. What's with Norman and the apples? HAHA. So he's a demon who just happens to be concerned about healthy foods? I love the whole apple thing. I hope we get to see more of Norman!
Ahhhh the apples. Good question. In the pilot, it was scripted that Norman
picks the apple out of the trash can after the character Cassie, played by Amber Borycki, throws it away. What it didn't say in the script was that Norman takes a bite out of it. When we went to shoot the scene it was just one of those things that just happens in the moment as if the character just takes over. After that it has developed into a thing with Norman. It wasn't planned in the return of Norman episode either. Originally they were
going to hire another actor to play Norman as the homeless guy lurking in the background while Vicky and Henry are planning their next move. But then they just told me that I was going to do it. They had me looking through the trash and so I thought what a perfect moment to reestablish Norman's love for half-eaten apples from the trash. Plus it is one of those details that a lot of people won't get but the die-hard fans will catch and get a kick out of. I always like to throw those kinds of things into the scenes... it makes it more fun for everyone. And yes, Norman has an apple fetish. I am glad you caught that. Good eye!
From Vampiress: How did you get into the character of Norman? I mean, he's not exactly normal.
One of the things I do is listen to music. Depending on how Norman is feeling in that particular scene I will listen to a specific song over and over until it makes me feel what I want to feel. With Norman it is usually what I call rage music. The wardrobe is very important. We have the best wardrobe team working on Blood Ties. All of Norman's clothes are one-of-a-kind. They are specially made just for Norman. Once I get those cool clothes on, have all the red and black extensions put in my hair (which I had to keep in for over a month), get those contact lenses in my eyes and have the claws put onto my hand, Norman is basically there already. Norman loves to talk, so I always have fun playing around with the dialogue, and finding interesting ways of saying the lines. Basically that is it, and then when it comes time, Norman just kind of appears and takes over.
From Vampire_Rat: You were great as Norman tonight. What's your favorite place to relax after a hard day at work?
The bathtub. That is the only place I find relaxing. I don't like to sit still, and I don't get much sleep. But the bathtub is the only place I can relax. I have fallen asleep in the bathtub many times. I would normally never share that much about myself, but just because I feel like being honest with everyone and because I am deeply grateful that all of you love Norman so much, I will share all of my most intimate secrets. The bathtub is my favorite place in the world. In fact after I am finished answering all of your questions I am going to run myself a bath.
From StacyinNC: Was it more fun playing Norman in the pilot or last night? His look was a definite change.
It was so much fun! Every time I play Norman he is always changing. He is never the same character twice, which makes it new and fresh every time. I prefer the Norman in the state he is in now as opposed to Norman in the pilot. That was fun as well but that was the beginning, the birth. Now Norman has no borders. He can do anything, go anywhere, he is free to an extent. I always wait to see what he is going to do next. And that is very exciting to play.
From Grave_Tidings: You've given Norman so many layers and make him fun to watch as well as extremely creepy and evil. How did you go about developing the character? Have you done any classical theatre? Because I swear with your talent, you must be
classically trained? Am soooo glad his last line was, "I'll be back."
Thanks for the compliment, Grave Tidings. I want Norman to be interesting,
layered and fun to watch. I have not done any classical theater and have no formal training as an actor. I took an acting class once and hated it. They tried to take all the fun out of it. Just like art school, it always seems to me that "they" always want to put everyone inside of a box. They'll deny it, but they do. They always talk about thinking outside of the box, and breaking out of the box, but at the same time they put you
inside the damn box. What is this box anyway? So no, I have no classical or formal training. It seems for me, the less I know, the happier and better I off I am. I develop my characters using my imagination and instincts. In the end that is all you really have anyway. I am also glad my last line was, “I'll be back!” Norman has much more up his sleeve.
From BloodTies-BloodPrice: HI MICHAEL! Thanks for doing an interview! My question is: what was it like working in the costumes your character wears? (long
coat, contact lenses, nails, clothes etc) and does Norman's style of clothing relate at all to your own? Fabulous job on recent episode "Norman"! And congrats on the Leo nomination!
Thanks! The costumes, especially for a role like Norman, are one of the best
parts. The look of all my characters is very important to me. If I don't feel like the character, it is hard for me to play it. So I welcome all of that. Like I mentioned before. The long coat that Norman wears was specially designed for Norman. It Rocks! Once you get all the clothes, hair and make-up on, you can't help but feel like a rock star, and that is what Norman wants to be -- the rock star of the demon world. It's funny you bring up if Norman's style of clothing relates to my own. After I play a character that I like I have a hard time shaking him off until the next role comes up. After I played Norman the first time in the pilot, I went through somewhat of a Goth phase myself. Not to the extreme of Norman, but I dyed my hair black for a long time, wore a lot of black clothing. I really got into the whole dark Goth thing. It was empowering. It has faded away since I have played other things, but there is still a Goth rock star deep down inside me. An interesting aspect of being an actor is that the more characters you play the more you lose focus of yourself. I don't really know who the real Michael Eklund is anymore. I have taken upon a lot of the personalities traits of my characters. I guess I am still the same guy except now filled with multiple lives.
From Jules: Hey Michael!! I am so glad you took the time to answer some of our questions! We see Norman in these episodes post dark-magic-dabbling. He obviously
got transformed by the dark magic he started. Where do you think that he would have ended up had he not gone down that path? And where do you want to see him go
from here? I think Norman kicks butt in a warped, dark, and evil way. I loved what you've done with him! Thanks again!
Wow what a good question. I think if Norman had not gone down the dark
path, he would have eventually figured things out for himself... he was a smart guy. Either that or he would have had some kind of nervous breakdown. He had a lot of
built-up anger inside him. And that kind of anger needs to be released. I guess we will never have the answer to that question. Norman just wanted to be loved. It was just too bad that Norman thought the only way he could achieve love was by going down that dark path. It's also too bad that Norman never realized his own true potential and accepted himself for who he was, and that you don't have to change yourself to find love. And if you do than you are looking for love in the wrong places. Basically it's all
Coreen's fault; if she had paid more attention to Norman, he wouldn't have had to hire a demon to kill her boyfriend... Way to go Coreen.
Norman obviously lost himself along the way. I would love to see Norman
lose himself even further into the darkness of Astaroth just because it would be fun to go even deeper. Or I would love to see Norman try to repent for what he has done and put his powers to good use... he could even go back to school and get his degree, then get a job somewhere, settle down hopefully with Coreen, and have little demon babies.
From NightSkye: Michael, Firstly, thank you for talking with us. Your portrayal of Norman was wonderful! As Geeky Norman he was entertaining, but as Demon Norman he was a delight! Was Norman based on someone? How do you manage to strike the balance between creepy evil and fun/entertaining? I'm glad they didn't officially "kill" Norman off in this last episode; we definitely need to see more of this character! Thanks for sharing!
Unfortunately Norman is not really based on anyone. He was conjured up in my brain. Of course with help from the wardrobe department, make-up department and of course the writers of the show, Norman comes to life. I add in a lot of my own material with Norman, but basically it is a group effort. But I think it would really be cool if he were based on someone I knew... that would be one warped dude. He'd be like this guy going around licking everyone's eyeball like he did to Coreen's. I think I find that
balance you are talking about by really enjoying what you do. I love getting up to go to set and "play" and see what happens. I have a lot of fun doing what I have had the pleasure and honor of doing.
There was a time awhile back when I lost the "fun" of acting. I didn't know why, but I found myself unhappy and not enjoying it as much as I used to. Then I realized that I was forgetting the most important thing -- to have fun. It had become boring for me. There was no art in it anymore; I was simply just filling the role required. Then I found it again and told myself to always have fun, respect what I do and what I bring to it, and use my creative imagination in my life and work. Because that is what separates all of us and makes us all unique as people and artists. No one can take that away from me again. And technically speaking the balance is also managed by always remembering that no matter how evil Norman is or how evil Norman thinks he is... deep down under it all Norman is still the awkward misfit that he always was. He tries hard to be cool and evil but the true Norman must always shine through.
From moviechick: Hi Michael, I only have one question: who is your favorite script supervisor? Sandra
Great question! Let me tell you, there is this one script supervisor that outshines them all! Her name is Sandra Montgomery!
From Boomer: Hi Michael, Norman is such a delightful
villain to watch! I was wondering if you might share
with us who your favorite actors and/or characters
are, perhaps someone that you draw inspiration from in
your roles? Thanks so much for taking time out to chat
with us.
I love so many actors, male and female. But I find inspiration in everyone
and everything. I can't just limit it to one group of people that inspire
me but a world of people and things. Sometimes it is the strangest or
smallest of things that inspire me. Animals, my family, music, people, art,
colors, books, photographs ect...All of these things inspire me in my roles.
I do have a some favorite actors who's work inspires me and excites me to
be the best I possibly can be. The list often changes, but today those
actors are artists such as Sean Penn, Kate Blancett, Vincent D'Onofrio, Sam
Rockwell, Daniel Day Lewis, Gary Oldman, Mark Ruffalo, and Benicio Del Toro.
I love all of these actors work. But I would have to say it is all the
oddities of life that I draw inspiration from in my roles. From moment to
moment things change and for me it is important to incorporate in my work
what inspires me in that given moment. It is in that fleeing moment that I
draw all my inspiration from.
Right now it is all of you who have shown your support.
I want to take the
time and thank you all for that support. Playing Norman has been a wild
ride. It has been fun answering all of your questions, and I hope I answered
them all to the level of your satisfaction.
Thank you again, and keep watching Blood Ties and keep looking out for Norman... he needs it. |
