Actress Sian Altman (Firenado, Rise of the Beast) stars in a new film that’s being described as Vertigo by way of American Werewolf. But as the amiable actress attests, she can’t say whether that description of WOLF GARDEN is spot-on because she’s never actually seen John Landis’s classic werewolf movie.
When did you get involved in the project? Did it come to you by way of an existing friendship with the filmmaker?
I actually auditioned for Wayne, the director, a few years ago for a different film. I think that film ended up not going ahead because of the pandemic but Wayne carried on writing and came up with Wolf Garden. When it came to casting he got in touch and asked if I wanted to audition for Chantelle and I jumped at the chance.
What was the appeal of playing the character?
Chantelle is a really interesting character because she is mostly seen through William’s visions and there’s a sense of mystery about her from the start. It’s not always obvious if what William is seeing is part of his memories, something happening in real time or something entirely in his head. Chantelle goes through a lot of phases in this film and it was really fun playing a role that had so much variation and emotion to it.
And did you have a backstory for the character, even if it wasn’t necessarily on the page?
I had a few Zoom calls and rehearsals with Wayne before we started shooting and we talked a bit about their relationship and what happened before the start of the script that led to this story which really helped me develop the character.
Were you encouraged to improvise and contribute?
Wayne was always willing to listen to any input or questions I had on set. I really liked the script so didn’t feel there was much need to improvise when it came to the dialogue but he definitely gave me the trust and freedom to play the character in a way that felt right to me.
The film has been described as an American Werewolf meets Vertigo – how accurate would you say that comparison is?
I haven’t actually seen American Werewolf (I know, I know, I promise it’s next on my watch list!) But I have been told that there are some references to it in Wolf Garden. I think most films take influence from other stories but for me I really loved the psychological element to this story. It definitely gives it an edge over some of the other horrors I’ve seen/worked on.
Do you have a favorite werewolf movie?
I can’t say I’ve watched many werewolf movies before so Wolf Garden is top of my list right now!
Physical or CGI? What do you prefer on film?
It really depends on what you’re trying to create but I grew up watching the original Star Wars movies so I do have a soft spot for practical effects. So many films manage to incorporate both fantastically though and there’s so much skill involved in doing either so I’m always impressed with the way people are able to achieve effects.
What is it that fuels you as an actor?
Acting, for me, is a way of never losing that ability to play and pretend. When we’re young we have huge imaginations and we’re so unafraid of showing our emotions and believing in the impossible. Working as an actor means I never have to let go of that side of myself. I’m always more excited by an incredible story than I am by a big pay cheque so having the chance to tell some of those stories is a huge driving force behind my career choice.
WOLF GARDEN is now on digital from Gravitas Ventures