We Speak Actors
Gia Skova to star in and direct spy action sequel ‘The Serpent 2’
In 2021, ‘The Serpent’ burst into the indie film world with its secret-agent heroine Lucinda Kavski, described as “a female Jason Bourne meets James Bond”. Written, directed by and starring Gia Skova, the next thrilling film in the series is now in pre-production.
The original ‘The Serpent’ was made for just $1 million and grossed $3 million around the world. Skova created the character of CIA operative Lucinda by drawing her in comic books, and describes her as a “strong, insanely beautiful, heroically courageous woman, who embodies hope, defeats evil and saves the world”.
Skova says the appeal of the films is due to its female lead, diverse casting, international settings and intriguing storylines. She says: “Lucinda Kavski is the CIA’s most decorated agent the world has never seen. Known by her alias ‘The Serpent’, there is no terrorist organisation she can’t infiltrate, but when her most dangerous target reveals themselves to be beyond organisation and above nations, Lucinda must decide who to test and where her allegiance lies, with the fate of the world at stake and her own life in danger.
“In this new film, we’ll see the beginning of the story, where Lucinda’s story started, and we’ll get to know why Lucinda is so ambitious.”
As in the previous film, Skova will do all the stunts herself, without a stunt double on set. This time around, she said that “the stunts are going to be even cooler”. She adds, “We’re planning to film mainly in the US, but we’re also looking at some locations in the Middle East.”
The film is retaining the same cast as the previous movie, but Skova says, “Look out for some new faces too”. She continues, “I’m very happy to get everyone back together again. The filming process is like a family that creates something that doesn’t yet exist – then, at the end, we have the birth of a film.”
Skova is passionate about making films with female-led teams and in 2017 she founded Valholl Production to create a platform for diverse voices in Hollywood. She quotes the statistic that women account for just 28% of all creators, directors, writers, executive producers, producers, editors and directors of photography. Valholl Production – named after Valhalla, a concept in Norse mythology – has worked with organisations including Sundance Institute and Women In Film.
Having started acting aged 12, Skova’s previous credits include ‘João, o Maestro’, ‘Finding Beauty in the Beast’ and ‘Bleed for This’. As well as an actor and filmmaker, Skova is also a model, having appeared in fashion magazines including Vogue and InStyle, walked in runway shows for designers such as Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs, and featured in adverts for L’Oréal and Red Bull.
Featured photo credit: David Kaminski
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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