Stephanie Laing is one of Hollywood’s top directors and producers and she has worked on a bevy of shows we love, such as Veep or Physical, and recently… she served as the Co-Executive Producer and Director of Mammals on Prime Video and we here at NTG had the distinct honor of being able to sit down with Stephanie to discuss her work on Mammals.
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John Betancourt: What is it that you love about directing?

Stephanie Laing: I love to tell a story. But it's funny that you're asking me that question. Because we were shooting in a school, a school room today. And on the board, there was for kindergarteners, and it was like, “how to tell a story.” And I just thought like, “Oh, that's it.” Like, that's where like it started for me was, you know, I think basically my whole life was just like, “I want to tell stories.” And then as I've grown, you know, I was a producer before director. And I think for me that was about, like really fine tuning the kind of stories I wanted to tell. And I respond to character driven, tricky tones. I like dark humor. I like something that's absurd. And I like things that have something to say and that hopefully make an audience want to talk about it afterwards.

John Betancourt: We are definitely talking about a project that does all of that. Which has me curious, as to whether or not those reasons are why you were attracted to this project, or if there was more to it?

Stephanie Laing: Well, I'm, obviously a big fan of Jez Butterworth’s writing and big fan of James Corden, and big fan of Sally Hawkins. And so, when I was brought on to the project, we hadn't cast Sally yet, but I, you know, was sent the first script. And I could hear James's voice as the character so clearly and just loved the writing. And it surprised me like even reading it. I didn't know where it was going the first time. And I think it's so rare that you read something that's so nuanced, and so, so layered and so complicated, that you don't see it coming as a reader and I thought, “Wow, this, the challenge will be keeping the ball in the air for the viewer.” And that was really exciting to me.

John Betancourt: Now, since you’re both a Co-Executive Producer and Director on the show, how much input did you have on the shaping of this incredibly complex story?

Stephanie Laing: Jez and James and I worked very closely together, I would say, most often, we finish each other's sentences and have very similar sensibility. And so, we were very, the three of us worked very closely, you know, obviously, it is written by Jez, and then basically entrusted to me as a director to go put it on its feet. And I’m, you know, really lucky, because we have, you know, we do have such great cast. But we started with such a great script. And so, I just, I think the three of us were just always in sync. And the same with me with the cast. And, you know, Melia (Kreiling) is someone who's self-taped for us, and we just fell in love with their self-tape. And then we watched a lot of other self-tapes, but she's the only person that we actually tested for the role with James because we knew instantly when we saw her.

John Betancourt: Now this is a series that features some pretty massive twists and turns at the end. How did you as a director, ensure that all the surprises were kept that way? Because there were no clues regarding Jamie and what he has done.

Stephanie Laing: Well, exactly that right? I mean, we never tipped our hat to that. In fact, I think if anything, the identity of Paul, being Jeff, was kind of a red herring because I feel most people didn't see that coming until like, they kind of started to get suspicious maybe around the time that it was revealed. And so, I think if you figure that out, then you're like, then you think you've figured the whole series out, but actually, you haven't. And so, as a director, it's obviously an extremely visual way of telling the story, I worked super close with the DP, but we let things play out, kind of in one frame, telling two stories or two, you know, two expressions from people. We also didn't always cut tight for comedy, like sometimes things are played in a wide intentionally, because we didn't really want the viewer to, to settle on something too long. You know, we never like… only several times we were really tight on Jeff, you know, Colin Morgan. That was… that was intentional. And I think we just, you know, we watched it and edited, we edited a lot to make sure we weren’t giving it away, and sometimes that means getting out of a scene faster, right? Getting on with something else. You may want to linger here. But it's like, well, if I linger, then they're going to start to figure it out. So, let's go. Let's get out.

John Betancourt: As a follow up to that, how much work went into that editing process to maintain to those secrets?

Stephanie Laing: Yeah, I mean, the truth is, we had like a really healthy editing period, you know, Amazon has been wonderful to work with. And so, we were never under like a tight post schedule. You know, we were able to really… we shot it, obviously, we shot over I think 60 days, and then worked on, you know, I worked on my cuts, Jez did his cuts, and then we, just all kind of collaborated on cuts. But we but they gave us the time, you know that we really needed to really get the fine tuning, right. Sometimes I think if you're rushing through a pass on an edit, like, you know, there's things you don't see, or things you can elevate. And I think that's really what also interested me in the project was just like the people that were doing it. And I thought like, “How can I come be part of this group, and also elevate this material? And then who can I bring with me to elevate even further?” So, it was just kind of a constant, like, you know, keep us keeping our eye on the ball, but not letting the audience keep their eye on any ball.

John Betancourt: Another thing that I love about this series, is that it has so much to say on modern love and modern relationships. What are you hoping is the number one message audiences take away from this series?

Stephanie Laing: Well, I mean, I hope that they take away that love… I mean, it sounds corny, but like, like, love is important. And people do love each other. And love is complicated. And I think it’s… love is messy. It's complicated. So is life, I think you can fall in love with someone one day, people outgrow each other for various different reasons. And I think for me, if you can, I think… it's asking the question of, can you ever really know the person you're with? And I don't know the answer to that? And I don't think, I don't think any of us do. Like, if you ask, like maybe tomorrow, I'll say yes, but today, I'm not sure. And I do think that, you know, in a broad sense, it's like, okay, if you're lucky, you get to live 100 years, right? And as a human, and you get to as a mammal, and you get to fall in love with multiple people at different times and hope that you know, also people fall in love with you. So, you’re kind of searching for “The One” or multiple number of ones, not at the same time necessarily. You know, everybody is looking for that. And I think, you know, ultimately is, it is what's important. You know, relationships are important. And I know there's some like Harvard study, that's like the oldest study out there that's like over 70 years where they've studied, like, what, what is the key to happiness, and it's like relationships, platonic or romantic. But that is what keeps us thriving as humans. And so, I also think it's, it's a dissection of marriage, you know, that changes, depending on your partner, you know, on a daily basis. Yeah, I think it's complicated.

John Betancourt: That brings me to my next question. Because I noticed that this series, and other stories in popular media are starting to de-stigmatize and demystify concepts we romanticize and put on a pedestal like love and romance. Why do you, as an artist, think that’s suddenly gaining a lot of traction.

Stephanie Laing: Perhaps because it's like, as a culture, like we're all… craving for acceptance. And to be able to show… to be able to tell stories in an honest way without judgment. I mean, we don't judge. We're not judging Amandine. I mean, I got a lot of text messages from people, you know, who were four episodes in saying they didn't like her. And I just kept saying, “Keep watching, keep watching.” Because I do think in you know, several shots, your opinion of her completely changes very radically. And so, I think what we're saying is, is like, be careful to judge someone, you know, and then a specific case with for males is like, just be careful. Because what you see on the surface is not necessarily what is going on. And that two people can, you know, be telling their truth. And not lying to each other because it's their truth. It’s very complicated. Very complicated, right?

John Betancourt: Oh, and I love that. Because nothing is saccharine anymore. It’s about those complications and it’s challenging the viewer.

Stephanie Laing: Because it's absurd, right? Like, we live in an absurd world most of the time, most of the things around us. Like you watched John Oilver last night, and you're like, “Well, it's been an interesting year.” And it has. It’s been an interesting couple of years. So, I think you're just able to like, at least for me, anyway, we should probably respond to the dark comedy of it all. It’s just, it's too hard. You know, life can just be so depressing and so bleak. And it's like, you know what, we're all human. We all have flaws. Let's tell those stories. Those are the ones I'm interested in.

John Betancourt: What does it mean to you, to be involved in a story that actually accomplishes all of that?

Stephanie Laing: I'm just really proud of it. You know, I think like, like I said, we shot over 60 days, we filmed during COVID. It was not easy, logistically, we filmed in Cambridge, and in Monaco and London. And, you know, it was, it has its own set of like logistical challenges. But at the end of the day, I'm so proud of the story that we'd told and how we all collaborated together. And just, yeah, like I couldn't be more pleased that people are receiving it, the way that they are.

John Betancourt: Speaking of that pride, what are you most proud of when it comes to what this show’s accomplished?

Stephanie Laing: I would say most proud of the performances, and how the writing, Jez’s writing, matches the visuals. Those are the things I'm most proud of.

John Betancourt: Last question I have for you today… how cool was it to work with Tom Jones?

Stephanie Laing: I mean, it’s Tom Jones, right? Which by the way, is like a complete other metaphor for the show, if you think about it, because he's not known to be or isn't known to be monogamous, necessarily for his whole life. I’m sorry, I don't know Tom Jones’ story; I'm not speaking on his behalf there. But when people are like, “Why is he in there?” Like, think a little deeper? And maybe it's not as random as you think. And you know, he's a legend. Yeah, it is incredibly awesome.

John Betancourt: Well, I suppose you cannot go wrong just working with legends. Since James and his comedic skills are renowned and then you throw Tom into the mix.

Stephanie Laing: Like I said, James is… couldn't be a better partner to have, you know, in the show, James and Jez, it's like I said, it's just the collaboration and, you know, the generosity of all of us, like coming together. It was really, we had, you know, now I’m gonna sound really corny, but we had our own version of magic.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

Michiel Huisman, Jessica Ann Collins, and Luke Evans are three highly accomplished actors. Currently, they star as Prince, Amber and Bambi, respectively on the new Apple TV+ series, Echo 3, and we here at NTG were fortunate enough to sit down with this trio to discuss this new action thriller.
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John Betancourt: What was it that attracted each of you to this supremely ambitious and bold project?

Jessica Ann Collins: Sure. The story and the characters in that story, and just the complexity of the story. And the opportunity to work with Mark and the entire team and Apple TV. I mean, it all of it was simply an incredible package. And was a no brainer.

Michiel Huisman: Yeah, same it was it was kind of a no brainer for me. If I was given the opportunity to be part of this project, and to play a character as compelling as Prince, then there was no way I was not going to do that.

Luke Evans: I am always looking for adventures. And I could see that this was clearly going to be one of those kinds of jobs. All encompassing, all consuming. I was going to learn a lot of things, I was going to work with somebody I admire, Mark Boal, you know, I just, I thought this is going to be one… one hell of a journey. And then it was. It really was. I mean, I thought and breathed and lived it for the whole the whole nine months.

John Betancourt: Now there are a lot of big plots and moments to unpack in this series, what are you most looking forward to audience experiencing in this tale, without any spoilers of course.

Luke Evans: Um, well, you know, it's a… it's a complex story, you think you know, what's happening in the first episode, but then the whole thing is tipped on its head, and you realize, there's much more to the story than whatever it first looks like. Then you leave the safety of this wedding and America, and these two men without no help or… or support, head to a country they don't know. With one agenda, to save my sister and his wife. And the journey is complicated to say the least. And as the story unfolds, you realize the geopolitical situation down there plays an important role with the complexities of finding Amber and discovering, you know, everything. The problems with finding her and how we're going to do this, and you know, so it's… once you're in, you're in, I feel with this story, and I hope that's what the audiences will feel when they watch it.

Michiel Huisman: Well, I… I've always loved from the very first time I read the first script, the triangle between these three characters and their relationships. And I think one of the themes of our show is… might be honesty. Another one might be loyalty. And, you know, I think that Prince really struggles with his position in this new family that he married into. And, you know, sometimes he thought he was going to be closer to his wife than he discovers actually to be. I really like that a party gives a lot of tension to the story. And, and it's a great basis for the rest of the season, I think.

Jessica Ann Collins: Yeah. And I just hope that you know, they are compelling characters that people want to watch. And that beyond that, that there's an appreciation for the integrity and hard work that I think everyone put into making this series something special and unique.

John Betancourt: What are each of you most proud of when it comes to your time on this show?

Michiel Huisman: Um. That we made it? (Laughter from all.) This was a tough shoot, you know, and this was, this was very different from anything that I've ever worked on before. It was much more like get in the dirt and make it and it was… it was quite an experience. I'm very proud that we're finally at this stage where people can see it.

Jessica Ann Collins: Well, I got to do stunts. I thought that was pretty awesome and badass. I hadn't ever, ever done anything like that before. So that was really cool. For me personally.

Luke Evans: I think that what I'm proud of is that we shot this show, with all the complexities of shooting a show in Colombia. But we did it, we did it for real. We did it in Colombia, all over Colombia, using incredible South American talent from the directors to the supporting cast of incredible actors. And I'm proud that we've given this amazing platform, half of this show feels Spanish spoken, it's probably not half but it feels that way. And it's just wonderful to, to see the marriage of you know, the English-speaking dialogue, immersed completely beautifully with the Spanish language. And not done in a studio in Los Angeles but done in these places all over Colombia. And, you know, we you see Colombia in all its glory. And, you know, I think that's something I'm proud of.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.
 

​It didn’t take long for the AMC+ series, Gangs of London, to captivate audiences around the world courtesy of its incredible storytelling and marvelous direction, and now that it is back on the air for season two, we here at NTG thought we would celebrate its return in style. Courtesy of our interviews with Director Corin Hardy and cast members, Sopé Dìrísú, Narges Rashidi and Waleed Zuaiter.

John Betancourt: What does it mean to both of you, to be part of such a bold and powerful show?
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Sopé Dìrísú: I'm really proud of the show, I'm proud of the work that we've done, I'm proud of the crew and the cast. And like all of the people that work in the office, I think coming back into the second series and seeing not only Corin coming back as our fearless leader, you know, providing excellent continuity and also like such drive and passion and vision for the second series, but like when the sound department want to come, like, clear their diary so that they can come back for this job, you know, that not only do you have a special product that you've produced, but also like, a special environment in which you're doing it. And I mean, like I think a lot of shows talk about it being feeling, like a family or like a family reunion is the other. And I'm not saying that ours is more so than anybody else. But it definitely felt like that coming back, you know, there was a celebration, on the success of the first series when we came back to make the second one. And like, I was beaming to be able to go up to people and be like, congratulations on your hit series. Congratulations and your BAFTA winning series, you know. And yeah, so yeah, I'm super proud to be part of a show that's not only like, excellent for its diversity, and its action sequences, but also for the stories that we're telling the cultures that we're exploring, and like, I'm just glad that the world is connecting with our work as well.

Corin Hardy: Yeah, I mean, thanks for the words powerful and bold, those are definitely two words that I want, Gangs to feel like, you know, we're sort of juggling a lot of factors. It was really, really reaffirming and reassuring, when the audience reacted to the first series. First season and, and then to be able to sort of, because when we're doing that, we were kind of experimenting, you know, putting together a show with pulling in a lot of genres and doing what we felt was right. So, to have an audience immediately lap that up and give us a second season was, you know, kind of like an honor and a responsibility to carry the torch forward. And want to… well, certainly not lower the bar and not disappoint. So wanted to really go all out and, you know, bring as much emotion into the second season, work with those characters that the actors, like rendered so beautifully, and then go hell for leather with the action and make something as cinematic as possible.

John Betancourt: So, Corin, as a director, how do you prepare for shoots that are so complex? I mean, that opening sequence this season in the laundromat is something else.

Corin Hardy: Thank you, man. It's the thrill of getting the opportunity. You know, I’m feeling very lucky to be able to get given, you know, people to be able to finance a show where you're supported in going pretty wild with, you know, particularly obviously, the set pieces and the action is stuff I really enjoy doing. But having such an incredible cast and being able to work with them and explore these characters and get under their skin is also, you know, a real honor to do so. Concocting the action as you say, the launderette scene I wanted to build I was like, right we're going to reintroduce the characters you know and love and we're going to introduce some new characters, and obviously, Sopé’s character Elliott, we're going to meet him in a different mindset a year on, and he's been doing some pretty terrible things for a year and he's in a bind with the investors. So, I didn't want to just do a kind of hero's introduction I wanted to sort of do a fucked up hero’s introduction where we're going to, a little bit like you might get in James Bond or Indiana Jones you know, we're going to we're going to meet him in the thick of a mission and actually I like the idea of we all know that Gangs is responsible for these you know, meticulous set pieces, and I thought wouldn't be good to do almost like a camera shot that takes you through a set piece that's already happened or is happening just behind the camera. So, you're not actually going to see that for a moment, you're going to, you're going to be building up to the introduction of the guy we love to see kicking ass, and only then reveal him. But when we do reveal him it's not as simple as he's just mission complete. The reason being because I wanted to show his emotional state which is now very ragged, and you know, he's tired, he's exhausted and we're going to meet him. And then it before you know you get the kind of swell of the music score, Elliot's theme, and then he’s slammed into the wall and then you're into the action. So, it's always a chance to just try and concoct things that excite me and excite others and then get the chance to film them.

John Betancourt: Well, that is simply incredible. Now Sope, for you, as an actor, how do you get yourself into the mindset to deal with the utter chaos that surrounds Elliot?

Sopé Dìrísú: I think survival is the primary concern. Especially when you're fighting the World's Strongest Man, and all of the stunt performers that we're working with, you know, I'm really blessed to be able to say that I've been able to come through the whole series unscathed, I haven't sustained any injuries, let alone major injuries. That's because, like, Elliott's instinct as well, in those moments when you're fighting through a bar full of Albanian gangsters, or a naked man with a meat cleaver or a highly skilled martial artist, or one of the tallest men I've ever met in Olivier at the end of season one, the World's Strongest Man, it's just like, how do I overcome this obstacle directly in front of me? And sometimes I'm concerned about like, how do we tell the story make sure that you maintain this emotional state? But fear and survival are probably ones that are consistent for all of the action sequences that you see him and so if I focus on that, then maybe I'll come out alive.

John Betancourt: That’s pretty plain and simple, and boy does he face some massive foes.

Corin Hardy: And he's not exaggerating as Adriano is the world's or was the World's Strongest Man if you google him is Lithuanian, absolute power lifter.

John Betancourt: That’s beyond incredible. Now, with season two upon us, what are you each of you most looking forward to audiences experiencing this season… without spoiling of course?

Sopé Dìrísú: Um, I think my favorite arc in this series is the one of the Dushaj family, you know. Luan, and Melinda. And what they go through, I think is just, they were the excellent Macbeth and Lady Macbeth of the first series. And I think that continues in the best way. So, when I was sat on watching it with my family, earlier this year, I was like, “Ah, it's just such good storytelling, such incredible emotional work and the work that they do together is incredible as well.” So yeah, we get to experience more excellent storylines, and work from the Duhasjs, or the Shukas I should say.

Corin Hardy: Well. A lot. I'm looking forward to them seeing a lot. A lot of, you know, seeing you're seeing the characters that they know and love getting put through the wringer even more intensely. And I'm really sort of excited for people to experience some of these set pieces we've devised, I suppose. I'm very excited for them to meet this new character, Koba, played by Waleed Zuaiter who is brought to London to kind of get control of the gangs, who have become very volatile in the kind of fragmented wake of the Wallace and Dumani fallout in season one. And he's just done such a great job as an actor to create this character, which sort of shakes everyone up from inside, you know, he's, he's sort of charismatic and he's unnerving, and very strange. And kind of weirdly lovable, which I think you get a lot in, you know, bearing in mind, all the characters in Gangs are, are criminals and villains. As I'd say, maybe that includes Elliot. And, you know, what you want to have empathy for them and relate to them in certain ways. And I think all of the actors have just done such a great job there. So yeah, I hope folks are gonna dig it.

John Betancourt: What are you both most proud of when it comes to your time on this show?

Corin Hardy: Getting through it. (Laughter) You know, the show is incredibly ambitious and therefore really hard. You know, we didn't want to do regular television. I say we everyone, I mean Gareth when we set out and myself, Xavier and directors on season two Marcela and Nima and the producers and everyone, it was important to me, you know, I didn't want to do a TV show that looks like a TV show. And it feels unconventional in that sense, and the scale of it and the ambition with what we try to pull off is sometimes like, almost impossible feeling and combine that with a pandemic, that happened, when we started, made it almost an insurmountable job. And so actually, it's only now I'm really feeling the reward and a relief of having finished it, watching it. We had a premiere in England in London three weeks ago. And it was just like one of the best nights where 300 Strangers in the audience, were able to experience those first two episodes. And obviously, when you finally show it, you kind of become quite nervous, and you don't know what the reaction is going to be and whether people are going to get it. And this incredible reaction we had throughout the first two episodes, culminating in this kind of audience gasping, screaming, and shouting and clapping, was just really relieving. And heartening to see. So, if that rings through around the living rooms of the world, I'd be very happy.

Sopé Dìrísú: I think the thing that I'm most proud of being part of Gangs is growth, actually, in this might be a bit selfish, but it's like, the first time that I've been able to do the second of anything. Second sequel film or second season, every time I join a season of something either gets canceled, or I get killed off. So, like, thank you, Corin for keeping me through to the second season. But yeah, just like the opportunity to revisit a character and develop it and go on a bit more of a journey with it. And also, the growth as an artist, like I really feel that Corin and Nima and Marcela and all the people upstairs as well really listens to my voice, like I was asked my opinion on things, and I was able to sort of help restructure or rewrite certain scenes and stuff like that. And like, this is not an opportunity that I've been afforded in the past and one you may not get again, because depending on who you collaborate with, some people are not as receptive or responsive to suggestions. So, I just I'm so grateful to everybody at Gangs for helping me grow as an artist.

John Betancourt: What does it mean to each of you to be part of such a bold and powerful show?
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Narges Rashidi: So much. To have the opportunity to be… I mean, as an actor, first of all, to have the opportunity to be a part of something so huge, so complex and full of action. And there's like, I think we have 700 people working on the show. That in itself is just insane. It's like winning the lottery. And, then as a woman to have the opportunity to play a character so complex and so strong and so badass. You know, it doesn't even matter what sex you have. It's so regardless of that, that is so rare. Yeah, that in itself is just, I don't know, I'm forever grateful.

Waleed Zuaiter: I became a huge fan of season one, after taping the scenes that they wanted to see me for Koba, I'd asked for the links and, and just immediately was like, “Wow.” I'm just… I feel blessed to be a part of this incredible production. And Koba is such an outrageous character that it was both terrifying to me as an actor, but also just exhilarating, because I just really kind of let my imagination go wild and just try to, you know, it was just one of those characters where you really get to play, and to play in this amazing company of incredible actors? And like Narges was saying the production value is just incredible. It's beautiful. It's basically of filmmakers shooting this show on a TV schedule. So, all we heard, you know, throughout was, you know, we hire really talented, experienced actors to kind of accomplish what we want to do on the schedule. So, it was it was a gift, it was a blessing. And it was just an utter joy to just be in this incredible company of talent.

Narges Rashidi: One more thing I want to really say is like, you know, as an actor, you get all these opportunities, and you choose from what you get. But Gangs of London for me is like, I'm actually myself fan-girling. When I watch it, like not because I'm in it, obviously, I'm a fan girl with everything else about the show. But that is so incredible. Like, this is a first for me to like, watch something and you're like, “Oh, I'm actually a big fan of it myself.”

John Betancourt: Without spoilers, what are each of you looking forward to audience experiencing this season?

Waleed Zuatier: I mean, I'm really looking forward to them experiencing, you know, especially those who are fans of season one, to see how Koba disrupts what's been established, and so I'm really looking forward to hearing their reactions, and to also just kind of seeing where the characters and season one have evolved. Because it really takes the theme of power versus family to a whole ‘nother level, and like, just to kind of experience how the different characters react to this new force kind of coming in. And, and disrupting things because he's meant to dominate, but he's also meant to entertain in a really weird way, like the audience is meant to kind of enjoy, Koba, in seeing him enjoying how… he's torturing people.

Narges Rashidi: I can't wait for you, for everyone to meet Koba, actually, Waleed is absolutely right. It's a joy to watch. He is the most villain-villain I've ever seen. (Laughter) And to meet all these new gangster families that are coming in that, you know, nobody's seen before and season one. I'm very excited for that. And I'm also excited for everyone to go on this journey, because it's going to be a roller coaster and it's going to be full of twists and unexpected things. It's there's so much unexpected… that I can't wait for people to experience that. It's going to be a roller coaster of emotions.

John Betancourt: Last question I have for you today, what are you most proud of when it comes to your time on this show?

Narges Rashidi: All the action stuff that I'm allowed to do, and I was allowed do my own stunts, this season. And I'm really proud of that. Because it was a lot of work. It was very, very hard at times. I worked out towards the end of my shooting my whole sequence, I think, seven to seven hours a day, for the last two weeks or something to prep for it. And I'm really proud of that.

Waleed Zuatier: I'm really proud of the friendships of everybody in the cast and the crew and the creative team, because it was very collaborative, honestly, like it there was no ego. There was just welcoming ideas and creativity. And I got a lot of that because I was terrified, kind of playing this outrageous character. So, I just kind of shared a lot of my thoughts and reactions to the material. And they were so, so, warmly welcomed. And actually, there were changes that were made in the script, new things that were brought into scenes, because we were kind of connecting the dots. And I just, I'm so proud of that, like, you know, Corin, especially but Tom Butterworth as well, the haed writer, and then just the camaraderie that we had as cast members with each other. It was unparalleled. I think.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

Melody Fox and Andrew Orenstein are a pair of accomplished writers and showrunners, and they’ve recently teamed up to lend their talents to the new Apple TV+ anthology series, Circuit Breakers. Which Melody created, and we here at NTG were lucky enough to sit down with both of them to discuss this fascinating new show.
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John Betancourt: Melody, what led to the creation of this particular show?

Melody Fox: I'm a huge fan of science fiction, and I watched Twilight Zone and reruns when I was a kid. And then The Outer Limits. And I think anthology is just a great way to tell us tell stories. Each week, we get to see a new character with new problems or predicaments or goals and resolution by the end of that story. And I've always loved that kind of format. And I thought there was a place for Twilight Zone for kids.

John Betancourt: Oh, I like that. Love Twilight Zone. Now Andrew, how did you come to be involved as Showrunner?

Andrew Orenstein: Oh, well, I have a lot of experience producing shows in this arena, with kids, and I’ve been working with Apple and their team for some time. And so, I came on board to, you know, help produce the series. And for me, having never done an anthology series, I jumped at the chance.

John Betancourt: Now I couldn’t help but notice that this particular anthology tends to go a little deeper than ones normally aimed at a younger audience. What went into the decision to blend deeper themes into this series?

Andrew Orenstein: Well, we always wanted to do a series that was relatable, that didn't talk down to children and, you know, really addressed issues of importance because we always wanted the show to be a co-viewing experiences between parents and their kids and also help foster discussion at the end of an episode. So that was always built into the DNA of what we wanted to do. And then we turned it all in through a fun prism of science fiction.

Melody Fox: Well, one of the things we did is we sat down, and we actually made a list of kid relatable topics like sibling rivalry, or the feeling of your parents are controlling you too much and you want some independence. Or in the pilot episode, it's about a kid who's frustrated because he's too short. And he wants to be on the track team. So, on my list was kids who want to do sports. So, you know, I started from that place of what I thought would be relatable. And then we add the science fiction and the technology to make it cool. And elevate the story.

 John Betancourt: In staying with the concepts of themes and messages, what is the number one message you hope audiences take away from this series?

Melody Fox: I don't know that it's so much a message. But I hope that one of the things that people will take away from this is well, first, I hope they're having a darn good time, and really enjoying watching science fiction, because I love it. And science fiction really sort of expands the imagination and makes you think outside of the box. But one of the things I hope that some of our viewers are going to take away is that they see themselves on screen. Diversity was very important to us. And our casting directors made a huge effort to find diverse young actors who are talented, and we have some differently abled actors as well in our show. And so, when our viewers watch the episode, they're gonna see a boy that's the lead in one episode of girl and another, an African American lead an Asian character, a Latino character, so I hope that that people see themselves, because I think that's important and relevant these days.

Andrew Orenstein: And hopefully they'll also walk away thinking… science is cool.

John Betancourt: Now since Anthologies require a different approach from a writing perspective, what challenges did you both run into in assembling this first season?

Andrew Orenstein: Well, one of the challenges, and what was also a good opportunity was casting 14 little movies every week and finding 14 stars and each episode has its own different unique tone. So, one week, we would scour North America and the UK looking for a really funny kid. And then another week, we needed to scour the world looking for a young actor who could really handle some very deep emotional scenes about divorce. And so that was challenging. But that turned into a great opportunity because I think we found, as Melody said, tremendous group of actors who from a wide spectrum that crushed it.

Melody Fox: It's challenging to come up with 14 little movies in a season. And that's what these are really, because it's a different character with a different goal each week to come up with that many stories that are producible. In the timeframe that we have. It's, you know, I think that thankfully, we had a terrific writing staff and some individuals who had backgrounds in science fiction, and some individuals who had some children's television experience as well. And that certainly helped us achieve that goal to come up with some, you know, 14 cool little movies.

John Betancourt: Well… now I have to ask, how many stories didn’t make the cut?

Andrew Orenstein: Well, we have a lot for when the show can get picked up for seasons two, three, and four and five.

John Betancourt: What are each of you hoping the audiences enjoy most when it comes to this first season?

Melody Fox: I hope they're gonna enjoy seeing a different tone each week. Because as Andrew said, one episode is a little more dramatic and heartfelt. And then you have another episode that's a little more comedic, and another one that's mysterious. So, they don't know really when they tune in what the next episode is going to be. And like we have an episode called “Untangled”. where the principal and a goofball student switch bodies, so that one leans into, you know, comedy, it has a lot of opportunities for humor, but at the same time, at the end, there's sort of a nice, heartfelt way that they connect. So, I think that I think people are going to enjoy that and expect that each week, something different.

Andrew Orenstein: And I also think that kids will love the aspirational quality of all of the really, really cool inventions in tech, you know, like, freezing our parents and making our clone, and just stuff that we only could dream about. Which I think will really be exciting.

John Betancourt: Last question I have for both of you today, what are you most proud of when it comes to your work on this show?

Andrew Orenstein: I'm very proud of the topics that we were able to handle you know, from environment to divorce. I think that we really will hopefully, foster discussion and kids wanting to take action. So, I'm really, I'm really proud of this subject matter, I guess, that we tackled.

Melody Fox: I'm, I'm very proud of the diversity on screen that our viewers are going to see that, you know, we have leads as I mentioned, we have leads of different diverse backgrounds. And it's not just you know; a person can see themselves on screen as the lead and not as the goofball sidekick character.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

There are few shows that have taken the world by storm the same way that Mythic Quest has. But it’s quality writing, incredible comedy and dynamic storytelling choices and top-notch cast… have cemented its legacy as of one of the finest comedies out there and to celebrate its return to the airwaves via Apple TV+, we here at NTG were lucky enough to sit down with several cast members to discuss what the journey has meant to them.
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So, without further ado, here is what… David Hornsby (Executive Producer/David Brittlesbee), Charlotte Nicdao (Poppy Li), Imani Hakim (Dana), Danny Pudi (Brad Bakshi), Naomi Ekperigin (Carol), Jessie Ennis (Jo) and Ashly Burch (Rachel) had to say about Mythic Quest!

John Betancourt: What does it mean to each of you, to be part of such a beloved and iconic show?

David Hornsby: (Points at Self) This show? (Laughter) Oh, okay! Yeah, it's great. It's, it's so much fun it you know, I get to work with my friends. I also work with them on Sunny, some of us, you know, came over to this show and work together there. That's really special, it's amazing to be able to know that we have a fourth season. It gives us you know, a little breathing room for story and things like that. And, look you get into a project and you don't know where it's gonna go, or how long it's going to go. And first seasons are always tricky, because you're trying to figure out the show, and what works and what doesn't work. And to kind of be here at the cusp of our third season is, knowing we have a fourth is really exciting. And I feel really, really grateful.

Charlotte Nicdao: That is, that's such a sweet thing to say. I mean, I think we came out our first season came out at a very strange time in the world, we aired at the beginning of 2020. And then like everybody else, I think all of us have been quite isolated in terms of understanding the impact that we've made, you know, you couldn't rely on online. But this year, we went to Comic Con for the first time. And getting to be in a room full of people that loved the show was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. It was really special. And the energy in that space… it was exceptional. And I feel really lucky to have been part of that.

Imani Hakim: Yeah, especially after doing the show for a few years at this point. That was our first in person, direct fan experience. And yeah, we had no idea how beloved the show actually was because it's just… we're getting our sources through online through Twitter, through Instagram, through TikToks, through Reddit, and it was just really nice to have people come up to you directly and tell you the impact that you've made.

Naomi Ekperigin: Oh my god! It's the dream, John! All right. I mean, look. I think we all hope whatever we do that we love it, and we get to do it all the time. But then when it's actually seen by people, and they enjoy it. Well, come on, that's all you want!

Danny Pudi: Yes! All these things! I think to, to be able to create and laugh with people and be part of something that I would actually, like, I know, I would watch and love too. Like, I love these characters. I love this group. And I love these people. So, to be able to do that. And to be able to share it and see that it's connecting with people. Yeah, it's the dream. It's awesome.

Jessie Ennis: That's such a nice question. Um, it's something I really am grateful for. My dad's an actor. And I did not grow up with a fantasy of making it in Hollywood, it was always kind of like you just work in Hollywood, if you're lucky. And so, getting to be on a show where we actually got picked up, we got a second season, then we got a third and fourth season, I've just been like, kind of shocked, I'm beside myself, and I'm thrilled. And then the fact that people watch the show is a whole other thing. And then when you get messages from people, or they feel represented, or they feel like seen in some way, it's just… it really makes me tear up a little bit. It's just. I'm really proud to be on a show that people watch and enjoy.

Ashly Burch: It’s so hard to wrap your head around the fact that people watch the show. I mean, I know that people do, they reach out to us all the time and say how much they love it. But it's just like, you know, working on a show’s so funny, because you're just like, in this weird little summer camp, all of you together making this thing and then you put it out in the world, and you don't really have a great way of gauging how many people, are what… you know, what they're engaging with, or what they like and, and so it's so nice to do stuff like this or like when we went to Comic Con and, and have people say like, “I love the show, I respond to it. I love the characters.” It's really gratifying because you know, we work, we have a lot of fun, but we work really hard. And we try, you know, to make the best show that we can. And so, it's so nice to see that people are responding to it.

John Betancourt: What does it meant to you as an actor to be part of a series that constantly challenges you and evolves?

David Hornsby: Well, it's, it's been great to be an actor on a show, I mean, you know, I, you don't always have the opportunity to write and act on a show, it has to be the right situation for a lot of people and so, you know, I've work on Sunny, and I get to act a little bit on that. But here, I get more of a part. And so, it's been, it's been really fun, to be able to stretch my wings a little bit and kind of work in an area, of this type of character and have a lot of material for it. So, we can keep evolving it. But I'm always interested in, you know, evolving it more. So, we're not repeating ourselves, even with my particular character or any of the characters. So, it's exciting to know we have another season as well to, you know, take it in new directions.

Imani Hakim: Oh, it's so awesome. It's really nice to know that, you know, in real life, we're always constantly growing and changing and evolving. And through a show, we get to have fun on Mythic Quest as well. And naturally, with a workplace comedy, you kind of reset each episode. And we don't really do that we just kind of blow everything up and then figure it out. (Laughter) So, it presents new challenges for us as the actors of like, who are we now? You know, how, how much have we changed and progressed? And how much have we regressed during this time. And it's really fun to discover new things with the writers because it's such a collaborative effort to create this story and create these characters together.

Charlotte Nicdao: Yeah, the show is so funny. And I think the show lets us do really silly things. Like I think that there are so many moments in season three, that even just being on set, I was like, “I can't believe that this is what I'm doing as my job. This is so funny, and so fun.” And at the same time, we get to delve into the deeper parts of who these people are, what they're struggling with those much more relatable and moving moments that the show has been lucky enough to touch on. We continue to do that in season three.

Danny Pudi: That's really what I'm drawn to. I love that about this show, is that I couldn't have predicted that we would do a standalone episode over quarantine from home. I couldn't have predicted watching an episode like “A Dark Quiet Death”, “Backstory!”, having an episode with Snoop Doggy Dog and my best friend Parvesh Cheena, that is weirdly emotional and also kind of like… “Is this really happening?” (Laughter) “Snoop is a room with you?” Like, all these things. It is evolving. And it is unexpected. And it is kind of a blend of tones. And I love that. Personally, I think it's great because it allows me to grow as an artist and kind of keep changing and making sure I try new stuff. And I think it pays off when we watch the shows when we watch the episodes, because then the show feels more meaningful and rich and kind of feels like we can keep stretching. We can kind of go anywhere, which is… that's really exciting.

Naomi Ekperigin: I echo everything Danny said and also just in general, I think particularly my experience with Carol, you know, she is… the first few seasons we've seen her you know, you know how Carol's gonna be. You know what she's gonna say, she's, it's a tried-and-true character game to have. And it is to me a testament to Megan, Rob, David that they said, “Let's see what else you, me, Naomi can do and also where else can we put Carol? Meaning, you know, I think once, they’re like, “Yeah, okay.” Once you’re funny they're, like, “Have at it!” Meaning like, let's try something new. Let's have you do some more stuff. Let's make things a little more complicated for your character. And then of course, all the fun in performing that and breaking it down, gotta love it!

Ashly Burch: It's so nice. I really think that our show runners are really invested in the idea of making a show that isn't afraid to take big swings, take risks and make changes. That to me is the most interesting thing, as a writer and as an actor, to not feel like okay, this is going to be a rinse and repeat. Like, every time we come back to the show, I'm going to know this person is going to say this thing, I'm going to say this thing and it's going to be kind of that. It's really nice to see that these are not just like… they're really funny characters, but they're also people that are being allowed to evolve and change and make mistakes and screw up and be triumphant. Be annoying, be lovable, you know, it's such a pleasure to be able to play characters that have those different sides to them. And, and for us to feel like we have ownership of these characters and that we get to contribute to that is really, really gratifying.

Jessie Ennis: Honestly, this seems… this is not an answer I would usually give but as Ashly was speaking, I was thinking about this thing that is kind of unique, because you asked as specifically as an actor. And in my experience, I go to different jobs. And I essentially get told, like your hair has to look exactly the same as it did when we wrapped the last season. And this is the first job where that is something I'm enforcing. And the hair department is just like, “No, you can do whatever you want. It's your hair, like, what would your character do?” Well, my character picked her hairstyle when she was 11 and has stuck to it. So, we're gonna have to match the hair exactly to how it looked when we wrapped. But there's so much freedom as to how our characters evolve. And the idea that our characters, of course, would continue to evolve between the months that our show is, you know, the month that we see our characters for, and I just find it really interesting that there's so much freedom and collaboration and it's really unlike anything else. And it's bizarre that the hair is the thing, but it really is. Like each character evolves so much. And so, it's really our choice what things we want to keep from changing.

John Betancourt: What are you most proud of when it comes to your time on this show?

David Hornsby: Well, I'm proud of just the fact that we, you know, we are outputting something that I can stand behind, you know, that I put myself into, I'm proud of the product. I’m proud when people connect with it, you know, so the consistency of putting out a bunch of seasons and being proud of what you're putting out. It doesn't always happen. You hope you work on something, and you feel fulfilled by it. So, it's the fact that we're making something that I enjoy and I'm proud to stand behind that's… no matter how hard sometimes it is, or fun it is, you know, all the ups and downs of it. I'm, you know, proud to be part of it.

Charlotte Nicdao: You know, the whole thing obviously has been a huge… I feel like it's a huge achievement for me personally just as an artist, but I always… I think that the quarantine episode that we made might be… like that might hold in my mind as one of the things I'm proudest of in my whole career, probably. But I also think that part of the reason for that is that it has really informed the rest of the show like we really, we were also committed to making something together that was going to reach people in that moment. And I think that has been a real touchstone of the way we've continued forward in season two and now season three.

Imani Hakim: Definitely the quarantine episode. That that is one of my favorite episodes to date. But one of the things that I'm most proud of with this show is just the representation we have. We have so many female leads on the show, women of color, and just specifically just me being a black woman, that is queer, in this space, being seen in the video game industry... is just so important to me. And I can only imagine the impact that that's having on other young women and young black girls who are coming up and watching this show.

Naomi Ekperigin: Hmm, wow. Um, I'm most proud of not getting so nervous that I hid in my trailer all day. You know? Not being “Oh God… can I do this!? Please. Help me!” But it is a welcoming fun space where you get to play, certainly given wonderful words on the page, but then also the chance to improvise within that and do what feels right. It's like, I don't know, just suiting up and showing up every day, John! What more? My God! (Laughter from all) I’ve lost my mind.

Danny Pudi: Hmmm, let's see here. That's hard to pinpoint one thing, because I think when you're on a show, you have moments that don't make it to camera, right? But it's just part of the work because we are… it's a workplace comedy, but we are a workplace, as actors rolling into set and hanging out, you know, like, so there are moments there that I will cherish if I was just kind of like hanging out. And then there's the filming part of the show. And then there's like the third wave, which is the actual episode when it's released and how people respond to it. And that's kind of out of our hands. But that's what a joyful thing when people are commenting on certain lines or scenes that they really vibe with. So, two things I will say this season for me to be able to direct was something that I just feel like I got a chance to do that on a show that I love with people that I love. And that was awesome to be able to be part of that in this environment. Because I think a lot of people their first time, they're probably directing on a show that they don't know the people well and that was like a gift I think because I got to know everyone here and I got to do that. And then like I said last year Snoop Dogg episode with Parvesh. That to me just feels like this weird fever dream that's just… did it happen? Um, but that's like two, you know, it's Parvesh and Snoop crashing, and my brother and it was just like a very weird, amazing episode.

Jessie Ennis: Oh boy. Um, I feel like I've really stepped into myself as like an adult working in my industry. I think I always felt kind of like, “Wow, this is happening to me!” And this is the first job where I really feel fully in control of my craft. And so that's been… it's been really empowering. And I'm just really grateful for that.

Ashly Burch: That's a great question. Man. Um, I think I feel really proud of the ways that I've challenged myself in this project. I think, you know, I was really terrified of directing for a long time, I didn't think it was going to be something that I would ever want to do. And this year, I asked Rob, if I could direct an episode. And the amazing thing about Rob is that he went, “Yeah.” It’s just like such an open environment. And so, you feel safe and empowered to do stuff like that, to make choices that are going to challenge you and push you as a creative person. And I have the benefit of also being on the writing staff. And I felt like I've been pushed a lot in that context as well. So, for me, it's just been such a, like, amazing bootcamp mix. It sounds like it wasn't enjoyable. It was very enjoyable, but I feel like it's, it's made me progress as a creative person so much faster than I would have otherwise. And I have a lot of gratitude for that.

John Betancourt: What are you most looking forward to fans experiencing this season?
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David Hornsby: Well, I think it's, you know, selfishly? I think my storyline. I'm excited for them to see me trying to bag a beefcake in Joe Manganiello for the movie that we get greenlit to make of Mythic Quest: The Game. So that's, that's always fun. And I'm also excited for people to see Carol more. You know, we brought Carol up more as a character this season more than the last two and, and Naomi's just so funny, and so I'm excited for them to see her as a character more.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

Melissa George is a highly accomplished actor that has appeared in iconic projects on both the silver and small screen. Currently she stars as Margot Fox on the Apple TV+ series, The Mosquito Coast, and we here at NTG were able, and honored, to sit down with Melissa to talk about her character and season two of this dynamic and brilliant series.
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John Betancourt: First and foremost, what does it mean to you personally, to be a part of a show that is so powerful and poignant?

Melissa George: Look, you know, sometimes we don't talk about the roles that we lose. But we're certainly today talking about the role that I won. And I feel proud of it. I feel that I'm glad that I wanted it as much as I got it. You know? I wanted it so badly to play Margot. I felt like I was connected to her on every single level. And I'm season two… in. Like that's… amazing. And then it's like something like 152 countries on Friday will see it?

John Betancourt: I think so.

Melissa George: That’s just… amazing.

John Betancourt: To top it off, Margot goes on a very unique journey this season.
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Melissa George: Yes.

John Betancourt: So, without spoiling anything, what are you most excited for audiences to experience when it comes to her journey?

Melissa George: I want them to reflect on the look of Margot in episode one of season one and see how vast this woman is like, all angles, like she's got everything, every part of her emotions are going to be displayed, every single side of her. And I love the fact that I knew from episode one, season one to episode ten of season two, that I'm going to unveil little by little, this real woman. And I got to do that. And this season. Margot is just such a force and it's been a joy to play.

John Betancourt: I can see why and that does lead me into my next question. Because the past couple of years, everyone has been pulling in different directions and searching for… something really. What ultimately do you think Margot is searching for?

Melissa George: I don't even think she knows. All she knows is she's stuck in a place that she doesn't want to be. Doesn't know how to get out and doesn't want to be there. So, you give her all these things and she doesn't… she's just finding out how to get out of it. You know? And then all of a sudden, all these people everyone that she runs away from comes to her life again. And it goes to show that no matter what you do in your past it will follow you and it will find you. And that's the hardest thing. She’s in the most isolated place in the world yet everyone knows where she is. Like, like go figure, you know? She cannot run away from what has happened. But she will die trying, she will die trying.

John Betancourt: Something I’ve always loved about this show, is the number of messages it features for the audience. What is the number one message you hope audiences take away from season two?

Melissa George: Oh gosh. Depends on who is watching. I mean, if you're into the environmentalism and you're, you know, avoiding capitalism and socialism and all of that, you're gonna get a lot out of it. And if you're into, like watching a mother… get the hell out of Dodge, and do it elegantly and refined and take her kids with her, then you're going to really get a lot out of it watching how Margot parents. Like how to be a great mother and how not to be a great mother, you will get both of it out of this season from this woman. I love watching that. I love it. I love the fact that sometimes she's just sitting there. She doesn't see her kids in days. IN DAYS! You know, I am not that mom! (Laughter from Melissa and John.) I tried to give my son a ribbon to be “autonome” in French, to be on his own in a resort. And I was finding him everywhere. (More laughter.)

John Betancourt: That’s a very good point. I guess we can debate the finer points of Margot’s quality of motherhood. (Laughter from Melissa and John.)

Melissa George: I don’t know why the social workers aren’t calling her! I don’t know. I don’t know where they are.

John Betancourt: I’d say it’s pretty bad when the NSA is still trying to get involved with it too. That’s like next level.

Melissa George: I love the fact that she doesn’t even care. She doesn’t even care… who’s after her. She’s just like, “I got it. I got this.”

John Betancourt: Exactly!

Melissa George: And then you see her in the first episode, like a little librarian writing her book with her glasses on like, “Whoa.” She knew who she was, she was just on her best behavior.

John Betancourt: She really was, she really did. So, the last question I have for you today. What are you most proud of when it comes to your time on this show?

Melissa George: I'm proud of the crew actually. That we did it with humor, with grace. With hard work and we made it through, I'm proud of, from the studio to cast service. We were one massive family, and we did it all together. Like yeah, they could say the actors or whatever, but we're just the people that deliver the final, you know, the thing that the people see. But what I saw was… I'm most proud of that, that we made it through in those conditions in that location. With… everything thrown against us. We made it through graciously. So…  proud of that.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.