Ashley Hillard
Ashley here,
Had a chance to chat to beautiful newcomer Mimi Michaels – from the new mini-series “Meteor”. We discussed that, and also her role in the upcoming “Gamer” starring hunky hunk Gerard Butler.
It’s great to be in touch with you again. Please tell me about your experience with TV vs. Film – do you have a preference?
If I am able to sink my teeth into a wonderful and meaty role, if the story I am a part of telling is compelling and riveting, and if I am working with interesting and passionate people, then it really makes no difference to me whether it is a TV or Film production. I love the work, and immersing myself in it, and when I am fully invested in my character and the story, I find that the line between TV and Film is almost indistinguishable.
It looks like you were in different episodes of ”Law and Order” as different characters, how does that work?
I was pretty young the first time I worked on Law and Order. I think it was a good number of years later that I worked on the show again. Growing up and making my way out of adolescence allowed me to work on the show again as a completely new character.
Since you worked on ”House of Heather”, do you feel like acting in a webseries is something you’d like to do again? Do you think a webseries can stand on its own or is it just a way to get people interested in a potential television version of the series?
I love working on webseries. They’re fun and fast. I’ll definitely be doing more webshows in the near future. I would love to see House of Heather make it onto TV because it’s such a great and funny show, but I think in today’s internet lovin’ world, webseries can most certainly stand on their own. I find it inspiring that you can find your audience in so many different outlets!
Many actors seem to turn to directing at some point in their careers. Do you see yourself following that path?
Yes! I would love to direct in the future. I don’t see myself doing it for awhile…I still have so much to learn, but it is definitely something I will pursue one day.
Tell me more about ‘’Gamer”. When does it come out?
Gamer comes out in September, and I can’t wait! I really believe people are going to love, love, love this movie. Imagine being able to play real human beings in video games…that’s Gamer! Basically mind control technology lets people command the actions of other people. It’s a fast paced, exciting sci-fi thriller, that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat.
What has your experience been like working with Gerard Butler?
Gerard Butler is such a talent, and it’s been wonderful for me to get the chance to work with him. He is such a warm and jovial person, and he makes everyone feel comfortable and happy.
Tell me about ”Meteor” – how did you become a part of the project?
Meteor is an intense and thrilling mini-series. All of the characters must deal with the impending destruction of earth. It is very interesting to see how every character responds to this scary and untimely annihilation; some characters fall apart, others rise above it. I love my role because she is so strong and positive even in the face of adversity.
What are your thoughts about the storyline and the possibility of the end of the world?
I think it’s a great story, and one that is not farfetched. The idea of the end of the world freaks me out, especially in such a catastrophic way. Meteor really makes you think…what would I do in those last few hours?
How did you like working with Forest Whitaker? How did you get involved with that project?
Working with Forest was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had; not only is he a brilliant actor, but he is such a kind, generous, humble, and wonderful person. I auditioned for the movie, and was cast, and I couldn’t feel luckier.
What’s next for you?
I’m about to head to Memphis to shoot a project for MTV.
Who and / or what projects do you hope to work on this year?
I haven’t really thought of specifics…I just want to keep on working on amazing projects, and doing what I love most!
