Actress Kate Watson fills us in on the ins and outs of doing a Lifetime movie – how fast they shoot, their target demographic, and how they were able to shoot Killer Advice during the pandemic.
Though entertainment Comes first and foremost, KILLER ADVICE tackles some pretty serious subjects doesn’t it?
It does. The story tackles the impact trauma has, and the fear, sadness, anxiety, agitation, and shame that may be associated with it. What we present ourselves to be may not always be exactly what we are.
Was that part of the appeal for you – that it’s grounded with a very real scenario?
This story really allowed me to explore the complexities of someone dealing with s:gma:zed issues such as mental health and struggling work, family, and personal expectations. I wanted you feel a bit uncomfortable watching her. She IS uncomfortable. Beth is incredibly bright and far from gullible, however she is lost within internalizing her issues. I remember first reading the script and feeling like she was constantly hanging on a ledge, with eyes of glass, just on the brink. She wasn’t broken, but not yet healed. She could either take a step forwards or backwards.
How much like Beth are you?
Like Beth, I’d like to think I’m fairly resilient. She’s a survivor and fighter. And like her, I’ve had to learn how to drive forward in spite of devastating challenges and heartbreaks
Is this the first Lifetime film for you? Do they shoot relatively quick and tighter than other productions?
I’ve done several Lifetime films, and yes- they do usually shoot incredibly fast. By lunchtime we would have shot what a typical feature film shoots over several days. Working this way certainly isn’t for the faint of heart.
I know they also release fairly quickly after production too. Did you shoot this during the pandemic!?
We did! We shot this film in July of 2020 just before lock down, and took all precautionary measures. It was certainly another added layer of complexity to the overall shooting experience.
Director Jared Cohn is known for being of the savviest, craftiest young independent filmmakers in the game. Did you get a sense of that working with him on the film?
This is my third film with Jared, and he certainly lives up to that reputation. He’s quick and crafty, but above all truly cares about the performance. He believes that characters drive the movie and I’m so grateful he gave me the space and trust to explore Beth intuitively.
Did he encourage improvisation at times or input from the actors?
Shooting at such a rigorous pace allows for some organic improvisation as long as it’s an accent to the scene. Something that’s truthful and naturalistic. There’s just not enough time for too much deviation.
Can you talk about your inspiration for the character? Chanel any other characters in there?
I didn’t have much time to prep for this, but the image that stuck with me while initially reading the script was of a glass menagerie. Beautiful yet delicate and sharp. Although she may look like she has an envious, shiny life, Beths eyes hold her truth.
Did you get much time to work with your co-stars before the shoot?
A few of us did a quick script reading, but we didn’t have much time.. We all just jumped right in.
Can you talk about Eric Roberts- a legend of the game. Does he come with pointers? A team player?
This is my third film with Eric, but the only film where I didn’t actually have any scenes with him. He’s always a quick and fearless actor who makes unapologetic choices which I find brilliant.
Can you tell us what’s ahead, Kate?
A few projects are in the works, as well as a couple still to be released later this year. I’m currently working my own screenplay, which has broken me open in all sorts of creative ways. I’m so grateful that artists work was able to give a sense of reprieve during these challenging pandemic times. We couldn’t do it without you.