We Speak Actors
Actress Charlie Blackwood on her new role in the just-released Apple TV+ series ‘The Enfield Poltergeist’
Charlie Blackwood’s career debuted at The National Theatre, followed by The Royal Opera House, London. In quick succession, she fast became known for her lead role in ‘Matriarch’ movie released by Lionsgate and now she’s taken a new role in TV which has just been released. ‘The Enfield Poltergeist’ is produced for Apple TV+ by MetFilm and Concordia Studios, the same producers of Apple’s ‘Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie’ which is this year’s most Emmy-nominated documentary. The series is directed by Jerry Rothwell. Executive producers are Al Morrow, BAFTA winner Stewart le Maréchal, Oscar Award-winning Davis Guggenheim, Jonathan Silberberg and Nicole Stott.
Charlie, can you tell us about your appearance in the new Apple TV+ series ‘The Enfield Poltergeist’?
Sure, I play the role of Teacher in Episode One. The show is about the most famous and well-documented poltergeist haunting in history, which happened in Enfield, London during the 1970’s. The show’s creators of used real-life audio recordings taken at the time of the hauntings and actors to reenact those scenes. It’s very unique, and has a wonderful balance of reenactment, real-life interviews and beautifully crafted cinematic scenes. We had the cast & crew screening last week and I have to say this is such an awesome project to be part of. Audiences are in for a treat!
How did you prepare for the role?
My preparation was different to any usual approach for me, as we were acting alongside the audio recordings and therefore had to lip-sync. This seemed similar to when I watched ‘London Road’ at the National Theatre, however, achieving this on-screen seemed like a bigger feat, to give audiences an authentic, realistic close-up performance. The voice of the character I was playing was unfamiliar and brought out characteristics I would perhaps not have chosen otherwise. It was such fun to explore the breath and vocal inflexion of the teacher in the recording and bring her voice to life.
What was your experience on the set of ‘The Enfield Poltergeist’?
I love being on set, whether it’s film or TV; it seems to be my happy place.
“I enjoy the camaraderie that comes with a team of like-minded individuals coming together to create something new and exciting. Some amazing friendships have come from being on set, ‘The Enfield Poltergeist’ being no exception.”
Working with an earpiece was a new experience for me. We were given them on set to hear the audio recordings, which enabled us to keep the accuracy of the performance. It did take me a moment to get used to it. As an actor you’re actively listening to the other characters in the scene – it was strange to hear them so clearly in your own head!
Where are you currently more, in the UK or US?
I move between the UK and the US depending on work. However, with the SAG-AFTRA strike I have found myself in the UK for a longer period.
Which project should we look forward to seeing you in next?
‘Blue Salt’ is my next project which was filmed in Mexico in 2022. It’s just had its debut festival screening at The Monterrey International Film Festival, in which Variety selected it among the “10 Most Outstanding Films at Monterrey”. The story centres around the character I play, called Connie, who finds herself in a toxic relationship where she is being manipulated and essentially gas-lit by her partner Vic, played by Gustavo Sánchez Parra. Her situation is made even more harrowing by the fact that she’s isolated by language and cultural barriers. The film is directed by Alejandro Cervantes Polanco, who is making his feature film debut, alongside cinematographer Juan Jose Saravia, and production company Cómplice Films. I imagine it’ll hit a distribution deal for next year and will be released in Spanish and English – the Spanish title being ‘Sal Azul’. There is so much to say about ‘Blue Salt’, but it’s perhaps best to keep it under wraps a little longer, for when audiences will be able to get their hands (or eyes) on it!
All four episodes of ‘The Enfield Poltergeist’ are now available on Apple TV+
‘Matriarch’ movie is available on Sky Store UK and Amazon Prime US.
Featured photo credit: Oihane Molinero
American actor Michael William Freeman has appeared in many hit shows, but is perhaps best known for playing militia member Blake Sarno in ‘Fear The Walking Dead’. Now he’s swapped the zombie apocalypse for a medical procedural, playing the character of Glenn Vogel in the new Netflix series ‘Pulse’, which follows the personal and professional lives of doctors and staff at a busy Miami trauma centre. We talk to Michael about working with his idols, the joys of collaboration, and why ‘Pulse’ feels like it comes from the golden age of TV.
Tell us about your experience working on the new Netflix series ‘Pulse’?
“It was epic. I had such an amazing time on this show, and it was really great to work with Netflix. The very first day I stepped on set, the energy was palpable. Everyone was just so happy and grateful to be part of this project – it really elevated the whole process.”
“Sometimes work can feel like a grind, but this show was a real pleasure. It was such a warm and welcoming environment, and I know that is reflected on screen.”
What was it like working with series creator Zoe Robyn and co-showrunner Carlton Cuse?
“Man, what an absolute dream! Zoe is such a brilliant talent, her writing is so rich and compelling. And Carlton is a master of his craft, an absolute legend in the industry. Yet they both approach the work with zero pretension. It was inspiring and heartening to be around them both. I think it was the most supportive, collaborative environment I’ve ever worked in; it really felt like a family on set. I’d do anything for those two.”
This is Netflix’s first medical drama – did you enjoy working in this genre?
“I’ve done medical procedurals before, which are fun, but this is something different. The heart of this show is the relationships. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of action and excitement, but what really drives the story are the people. It feels like a show from the golden age of television, something like ‘ER’, it’s so thoughtfully crafted and executed.”
“The way all the stories intersect and collide is really special, I’ve never been a part of anything quite like it. I’m really excited for people to see the show, I think they’re going to love it.”
Who will enjoy watching this show?
“There’s something for everyone! There’s romance, action, drama… even a few laughs. It’s stunning work from Zoe, Carlton and the whole cast and crew. Seriously, every department killed it: from hair and makeup, to wardrobe, to camera, everyone really shines. And I know the audience will appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship. Plus it’s such a fun and vivid world to explore.”
You’ve acted in so many hit TV series and films; which projects have been the most pivotal for you?
“‘In Time’ was my first big studio movie and the first time I saw myself on a big screen in a movie theatre. So that was a pivotal job for me and I certainly learned a lot from that experience. ‘Doll & Em’ on HBO was another one. Getting to act with Chloë Sevigny and be directed by Azazel Jacobs was momentous; I was such a big fan of them both and working with them exceeded my expectations. But most people recognise me from ‘Fear The Walking Dead’ – that show definitely raised my visibility and had a lasting impact on my career. I’m really grateful to be a part of that franchise. And now I can add ‘Pulse’ to that list.”
All episodes of ‘Pulse’ are available to stream on Netflix now.\
Featured photo credit: Netflix
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