Today I had the opportunity to talk with Actor Jerry Murdock.
- Welcome Jerry! Tell me a little about yourself?
I grew up in upstate New York, near Cooperstown, NY. I went to college in Fredonia, NY for history. I've bopped around the last twenty years doing all sorts of jobs and experienced many career shifts. Acting happened to be one of them. I'm currently teaching History in Manhattan, and acting in Alan Rowe Kelly's productions. I'd like to do more acting, eventually.
- Great work in "I'll Bury You Tomorrow" could you tell me a little about your role in the film and your favorite scene?
Thanks! I was originally slated to play Officer Mitch, only. the original Jake vanished and I lobbied to take on both roles. I bribed Alan ten bucks to do both roles and he let me play Jake as well. He and I worked on the character and I'm glad I had the opportunity. Mitch was normal. I wanted to let loose like the other actors were doing with their crackpot characters. I never thought anyone would be fooled, but I guess I was wrong.
as Jake
as Mitch
~~~~~~~~~~~
My favorite scene was with Alan in Corey's apartment. We worked well off each other. Also, I enjoyed working with Zoe in every scene because she's such a pro and gives you a great deal to work with.
- How long have you been acting?
I started acting as a lark in 1995 doing dinner theater in upstate NY. This led to community theater productions and other larger theater projects. I decided to move to New York City to try and expand on this. I did some small commercials, a couple of modeling gigs, some day player stuff on the soaps. I wasn't very tenacious, just took what came my way until I met Alan Rowe Kelly in 1999 and I'll Bury You Tomorrow. I really don't consider myself a "professional" actor at this point. I would like to devote more time to it and do more projects. Maybe one day that will happen.
- Who was your inspiration to pursue an acting career?
I enjoy the work of so many actors. When I was growing up in the 70's and 80's, I was most inspired by Harrison Ford. I wished at the time that I was Han Solo or Indiana Jones and this stoked my imagination. As I grew up, I began to appreciate him more as an actor in Witness, The Mosquito Coast, Presumed Innocent, as well as The Fugitive.
Today, I think the best actor going is Johnny Depp. I've felt that way for a long time. Talk about a guy who really takes chances and is a true chameleon. I'm glad that Hollywood is finally taking notice of his talent.
- Are you only geared towards acting roles in Horror films? Could you see yourself, for instance in a Comedy role or a Television sitcom?
I do love the horror genre, but It would be nice to do a drama, thriller or adventure story. Just haven't had the opportunity to do so yet.
Two of the best roles I ever played were stage productions of Noises Off and Lend Me ATenor, which were comedies.I would LOVE to be in a comedy. That's why the roles I played in IBYT and The Blood Shed are fun. Humor thrown into the horror mix.
Television sitcom? As long as we can ditch "the laugh track" and I can work with Chris Elliot who I think is a genius.
- What would be one of your favorite films?
I could rattle off a major list here that would bore you to tears, but I will choose only one:
BLADE RUNNER. This film has slowly emerged as my favorite of all time. Beautiful cinematography and direction, good performances and a story that is quite thought provoking. I discover more each time I watch it.
OKAY! I lied! I also have to mention MEMENTO. Boy, I love that movie as well.
I would like to thank Jerry for sharing his experiences with us. Keep up the good work and "break a leg" as the saying goes!
