Brooke Lewis is not just another stunning Hollywood scream queen. Lewis also happens to be a writer, producer and all out Philly girl, which means she commands super-scream queen status. The wildly talented and hard-working Lewis has been nominated for two Golden Cob Awards for her performance in the 2009 cult horror film, "Slime City Massacre". In 2009 she produced, directed and starred (how is that for super-scream queen action!) in the hysterically charming web-series, "Ms. Vampy". Newsflash coming at you - "Ms. Vampy" has been optioned for a film and Lewis announces the film's title for the first time ever-ever-ever. All that and more Lewis exclusiveness below!
MM: Scariest off camera moment of your life?
Brooke Lewis: In high school I went to see "Candyman" with my boyfriend. We're driving home through a wooded Philly area and he knew I was scared of the movie. He pulls over, turns the rear view mirror and says "Candyman" five times. Horror fans will know what that means! I punched him and I was screaming and crying. I remember it so clearly. Then years later I got to star in the film "iMurders" opposite Tony Todd, the Candyman. It was so cool. I was a little nervous and excited to act with him. I had to say, 'OK, you're Tony Todd. You're not Candyman, you're just a wonderful actor.'
MM: How did you transition from a musical actress to one of the hottest scream queens?
BL: You go to what embraces you. Horror embraced me and I embraced it back. I've always really enjoyed the genre as a spectator...I've been loving "Dracula" since I was five! I started out acting in "Tony n' Tina's Wedding" off Broadway and then did indie mobster and comedy films. I got the first taste of a horror movie in 2002 then I was inspired at 2004's Sundance Film Festival. "Saw" had just come out and there were lines for it everywhere and I just knew it was something big. I was in the film "Polycarp" and that really catapulted me and things started to explode.
MM: How did you rise up in the horror industry so darn fast?
BL: A lot of blood, sweat and tears. I wasn't spoon fed! Also, a lot of luck and hard work. I started my own production company, Philly Chick Pictures, so I was able to leverage acting roles. The other day I was fried and just thinking that you don't know if or when the break is going to come. Then I woke up the next day to a hundred emails congratulating me on being nominated for the Golden Cob Awards. You have to just keep on trucking.
MM: Super size congratulations on being nominated for the Golden Cob Awards! Please tell.
BL: Thank you! Its such a win-win just to have my name recognized for a small sci fi horror film. It is such an honor to be acknowledged with actors who were in $10 million, $20 million and $50 million dollar movies. I would be so grateful if people could please get the vote out too.
MM note: (Spare 3 seconds? Vote now)
MM: The horror industry seems a little secretive. Any insider tips for people looking to break into the horror world?
BL: It is a sinister fraternity but also one of the most supportive. Once you get in, you're in. I would encourage young actors to go to online horror communities, "Scars" is one, and really investigate horror sites and be around people in that genre. You have to network and do a lot of hard work. Things are so different now with the internet and web series too. I would encourage young filmmakers to buy an HD camera and you can really do it. Be true to yourself, your art and your integrity. Don't quit.
MM: What is going on in the horror industry now?
BL: There are so many changes. There are the underground indie films, the mid level $200k films, the $1 million range films and then the studio films. The really hot thing now is to remake horror movies. Studios have finally caught on to how hot horror is. With the hype of "Paranormal Activity", studios are paying attention to actors who wouldn't have that attention normally.
MM: What are you most excited about working on in 2010?
BL: I would say one of my most proud projects this year is my just announced lead role in a remake of "Don't Look In the Basement." Its the Texas version and directed by the talented Josh Vargas. This is such a treat. There are tremendous local Dallas actors who will be in it. I'll be spending a lot of time in Texas this summer.
My next project is my baby. Its a film with a character I created and launched last year and it combines mobster, comedy and horror. Her name is Ms. Vampy and she is a Brooklyn vampire and she is fascinated by current events. She has the courage and spunk to say and do things I could never do. She is my alter ego! I'm very excited because this is the first time I'm announcing the name of the film which is.... "Vamp It Out"! It has a "Bring It On" flavor. It is very much "Elvira" meets the "House Bunny". With this character I want to let girls know that you don't have to be skinny to be perfect. You also don't have to be perfect to succeed or be loved.
Comments
We love Brooke! She rocks and queen of any screen!
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!