This month sees the US release of Howard J Ford’s latest thriller ‘Escape’ starring Megan Lockhurst and telling the story of a group of ten sex trafficked young women who are kidnapped from an island resort and transported to an overseas client. You can see the trailer below. Escape looks like it will be a tough watch but also a great thriller and I am looking forward to seeing the film when it arrives on UK shores.
I had a nice virtual chat with Megan and she very kindly said ‘yes’ when I asked if she would like to take part in the Spending Time With…series of articles. (thank you Megan) So without any more from me, its over to Megan to answer the Spending Time With…questions.
What was the most recent book you read?
I’m not a huge reader, though I do love a podcast or an audiobook. Right now I’m enjoying ‘Sword and Shield’ which is a true crime podcast. I’ve also recently enjoyed a Roger Moore biography. It read like he was in the room with you, remembering the good ol times.
Out of all the characters you’ve played, which one do you think is the most like you?
What is one of your most favourite locations you have filmed or performed in?
I love filming in studios, however, a memorable moment was filming in an old mansion in Wales. The upstairs overlooked the ocean, and the architecture of the mansion was stunning.
Do you have any ‘props or keepsakes from any of your films or shows?
I once kept an old stick from a horror set I worked on convincing myself that one day it would be worth something. I kept it for years until my partner asked ‘why’. When I told him I could sell it once I made it, he pointed out that I’d no longer need the money. I believe the poor stick became firewood after that.
Do you remember who got your first autograph?
Have you ever gotten someone’s autograph? Which is the most memorable for you?
What is the ONE single coolest movie geek thing you own?
A model of the Star Trek Enterprise. I’m a huge Trekkie and a massive fan of the original movies.
What is one film that gives you the ‘creeps’? Or scares you
It takes a lot to scare me as I’m a massive horror fan. However, anything that is ‘based on true events’ tends to give me a chill.
Do you have an ‘off switch’ when not working, and how does it work?
Sadly no. If I’m not on set, I’m learning lines, practicing my craft, or creating promotional videos for companies worldwide. I also love a good brainstorming and bubble chart sessions during quieter moments.
How do you prepare for an audition?
I like to start by printing off the audition material and spend a day or two learning the lines. From there I use specific techniques to create interest within the character/scene and will usually record two very different takes. If I’ve done my homework, the actual audition process doesn’t take long.
What’s the first thing you do when you get on ‘set’
I’m usually called when they are ready for me. So it’s just a case of listening to the director an being ready the moment they call ‘action’.
Do you prefer day shoots or night shoots?
Day shoots
If you had to make a ‘bucket list’ of people you’d love to work with, tell me one name who would be on it?
Joe Dante, Steven Spielberg, Mel Gibson and Tom Hanks to name a few!With regards to your own projects? What are you working on that you can tell me about?
I’ve just finished an action feature called ‘Stand Your Ground’ which was directed by Fansu Njie. The film starred Daniel Stitsen, Eric Roberts and Peter Stormare. I got to play a hotshot lawyer who was essentially bought out by the baddies, and I absolutely loved the way the character was written. I’ve also just been attached to a horror starring the very talented scream queen, ‘Dani Thompson’, and have a few other productions i’m waiting to hear from.Do you read reviews of shows that you are in?
I don’t make a habit of it.
Let’s shine a light on some of your past work. Which of your projects are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of a recent film called ‘Ill Play Mother’. Directed by Brad Watson and produced by The number 44 and Goldfinch. There were a few chops and changes to my character which pushed me as an actress. I have no dialogue, however everything is told within the eyes and the movements of my body. It was also the first film I had to get completely naked for, though I was fully covered in paint. The make up team did an amazing job on me, and everyone was incredible to work with.Out of all the projects you’ve done, which one do people seem to ask you the most about?
I was lucky enough to work with Andrew Jones who directed a horror film called ‘Robert the Doll’. The film is on Netflix UK, and has quite the following! Andrew has sadly passed away, and a lot of his films are getting a lot of interest.What’s the most difficult thing about your creative journey?
One of the most difficult things i’ve found is scheduling time away from my career. You have to be ready to grab each opportunity when it comes which means decisions like getting a puppy, or taking a trip all have to be thoroughly thought through to make sure there are no road blocks in the way.And, the flipside. What’s the most enjoyable for you?
The electricity I feel on set is the most amazing energy. Watching elements of a film come together is wonderful, and reuniting with people you’ve worked with in the past is like seeing an old friend/family member. If I could be on set 24/7 I would.If you can sit down with any one living person and chat to them for two hours? Who would you choose?
Escape arrives on digital platforms on March 15th.
You can follow Megan’s X account here https://twitter.com/themlockhurst
Megan’s official Facebook page is here https://www.facebook.com/mlockhurst
You can see Megan’s new showreel here
frompage2screen.com 