The National Anthem

It was the winter of 2004. I was attending Stony Brook University when I received a call from my high school buddy Benedict Hadley asking me to play the lead role in his film. Stuck in the monotony of formal education I was more than happy to break free. I knew that I was going to be a part of something really cool but I had no idea that I was about to be a part of something great.

I remember how I felt that morning as I watched the world pass by my window aboard the LIRR...tired, scared, unsure. I asked myself. "Will I be everything he needs as an actress?", "How will it be acting in front the camera?","What is this film about?".....Yes, I had a vague idea what the film was about. After all he did explain. But how do you fully explain this film? I'd imagine I had the same feeling Will Smith did when he had some film called "The Matrix" in his hand. Only difference is I didn't turn it down.

I arrived at set to see the familiar faces of high school classmates and my Macbeth, Mr. Benedict Hadley. We played Lord and Lady Macbeth in school and now he was my director! He gave me the update and escorted me to the lovely "dressing room"....also known as the van. Hey! I'm not complaining! All I cared about was doing a great job....and that I did. The National Anthem became our calling card, our work of art, and my stepping stone. It reminds me of who I am and who I always will be...an artist.

Here is the one minute version of "The National Anthem" directed by Benedict Hadley. He filmed an interview with me talking about it. I'll post it as soon as I can. Enjoy!