Interview With Samantha Esteban of Harsh Times

Samantha Esteban stars in the new crime drama Harsh Times, which was featured at last year’s 30th annual Toronto International Film Festival and is currently out in theaters now. Samantha’s acting career already spans more than ten years including feature films like Training Day starring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke, and television, which includes a six-year role as Maria Lopez on the NBC Saturday morning show, Saved By The Bell: The New Class. I got to interview this talented 27-year-old actress about her life and love of acting.

Your newest feature film Harsh Times reunites you with David Ayer (screenwriter for Training Day). Did you have to tryout for the part or did David write the part with you in mind?

It was a last minute call. I don’t think he was aware I was coming in. The casting director called me and when I walked in the room, we both kind of looked at each other. It was a great reunion. I definitely felt more comfortable in this role.

Your character's name is "Letty", the same character name you had in Training Day. Is it the same character in her later years or just a coincidence?

Just coincidence.

BC: How do you react when people comment about your performance in Training Day, which was praised by critics and audiences?

Sometimes I’m really bashful. I feel good that it’s all been positive comments. It’s nice to hear from someone who related to the character. People really appreciate your work and the positive effects you might have had on their lives.

Any special preparation or techniques you use in your acting?

I’ve been in many different situations, people and cultures. I just take some things I’ve experienced and apply them to my character. If it’s something I have not been through, then I study and research as much as possible. I try to put myself in that person’s shoes.

Article Author: Tall Writer

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