Interview 2019
Film
Exclusive
ROBERT ENGLUND
robertenglund.com
Robert Englund is an actor who has, for over 40 years, created some of TV and Films most iconic and terrifying characters. In the 1980s he originated the role of Freddy Kruger in a series of films that continue to inspire a loyal fan base to this day.
Hi Robert, thanks for talking to TNC, how's everything going?
Great. Waiting on some projects, busy with auditions and voice over work and planning my 2019 personal appearance and film festival schedule.
Your annual Valentine's Day Card contest is running till 25th January, how did the contest come about?
That's my wife's thing. We tried Halloween cards from Freddy but that is such a busy time of year for me it just wasn't practical. So we thought we could provide an alternative to chocolate and flowers for my fans. We love looking at all the creative artwork submitted by talented fans.
Have you always had a passion for acting?
I fell in love with acting at a professional children's theatre when I was 12. I was hooked after Getting that first laugh.
How much did your background in theatre help prepare you for moving into film and TV?
It stoked my desire for acting, which sustained me while I paid my dues with auditions and rejection.
Was the transition easy?
Theatre training is essential for longevity in the craft of acting. It gives you confidence but you have to throw away a lot of it and surrender to the camera and the editor.
In 2009 you directed Killer Pad, what was it about Dan Stoller's screenplay that interested you so much?
I was a hired hand as a director on that film. I was asked by a friend to consider the project. I thought it was a clever script and I loved my cast.
Will you direct again?
Perhaps in the theatre. But I don't like the ticking clock tension of film directing. Time is money.
Of your many honours in 2007 you received the Time-Machine Honourary Award at the SITGES Film Festival, what did it mean to you to receive such a huge award?
I have received many awards but Sitges is one of my favourite festivals and cities to visit.
Last year you reprised your iconic role of Freddy on The Goldbergs, did you have any apprehensions about bringing him back to life?
I have so many fans from the '80s that look back with nostalgic fondness on their experience viewing the Freddy franchise with their families that I thought THE GOLDBERGS would be a good fit for Freddy. Plus I love Wendi McLendon-Covey.
What are the ingredients to making a good horror film?
Everything starts with a good story, a good hook. Writer, cast and director have to be on the same page with tone and an editor and composer who supply tension.
Do you have any advice for an up and coming actor/director?
Work whenever and wherever you can. Film school, college theatre departments, acting workshops, summer stock, regional theatre, student films, internships, independent films. Etc.
And finally, what do you want people to take away from your work?
I committed to every role no matter the quality of the project.