Joanna Sotomura is starring in the new horror film “Madison County”. She also recently appeared on the TV series “Criminal Minds”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Joanna about her new film and what she looks for in a role.
Mike Gencarelli: How did you get involved with “Madison County”?
Joanna Sotomura: I got an audition for the part of Jenna. I had seen that Ace Marrero was a producer on the film. I have known Ace for quite some time. I went into my audition and Eric England felt I would be a better fit for the role of Brooke. I went back for a second audition this time for Brooke and, I fell in love with the character. I don’t think I had ever wanted a part that bad. We shot the whole month of September 2010 and it was a great experience.
MG: Can you give us some background on your film and character?
JS: The film was something the director Eric England had wanted to do for quite some time. It’s about a group of kids who go to Madison County, Arkansas to interview an author about a book he wrote. My character Brooke is the bubbly, social butterfly type that is kind of scared to go into the town but she thinks it will be a fun time. Brooke is sort of the tie that brings the group together.
MG: What do you think was the most challenging aspect of the production?
JS: Having to snap into a horrified moment for a second and then having to stop go back to normal and do it all over again. That jump was a bit challenging. In order to get to that place you really have to put yourself in that terrifying situation. Running for your life to laughing with your friends was a bit difficult.
MG: What was it like working with Nick Principe and the rest of the cast and crew?
JS: Nick came to shoot his scenes a few weeks after the rest of us. He was fantastic! We didn’t get to talk to Nick or see his mask prior to the scenes so there was an element of surprise. I remember one scene where he let out this yell and we were truly scared.
MG: Can you tell us about working on “Criminal Minds” and how does it compare working on film and television?
JS: I booked “Criminal Minds” a few weeks after I wrapped “Madison County”. It was night and day. We went from shooting this independent film in the woods to a beautiful set in Burbank. T was definitely a change. I got to work with Janeane Garofalo who was a childhood idol of mine.
MG: What other projects do you have coming up?
JS: We are gearing up for the premier of “Madison County” which is being held on Oct. 17th. Besides that I am shopping around looking for some other great roles. I would love to work with Eric again.
MG: What do you look for when choosing a role?
JS: I like the character to have depth. I would have a hard time playing a one dimensional character. I like to do comedic things as well. I tend to fall more towards the bubbly girls.