Eric Lavallee: Name me three of your favorite “2014 discoveries”…
Kentucker Audley: Uhh Yeah Dude (podcast), Stoner (novel), Eastbound and Down (TV show).
Lavallee: You could say that with a name such as Noel, your character is inherently doomed to have an optimistic view. How did Charles inform you on the character and the wear and tear that brings out some Grinch-like moments in his personality?
Audley: Grinch-like moments come naturally for me. But Charles would keep on me about the wear and tear. Appearing exhausted is a difficult thing to pull off as an actor, but it’s such a huge part of this type of work. You’re working non-stop, hauling trees, living in a tiny, freezing camper. Add to that, a recent breakup, and a burgeoning reliance on pain pills, and you’re in a tough spot. Coming out of that funk is a challenge, and that’s what the film is about.
Lavallee: What kind of workshopping did you do with Charles? Were you there before the character hits the lot? And how would you detail the experience from first day and last day?
Audley: Most of the preparation was getting a baseline knowledge of the types of trees we sold, how to wrap them, how to take care of them, how to decorate the wreaths, etc. The tree stand was open while we filmed, so, in between takes, we would actually be selling trees to real customers. That’s the best prep you could ask for. It’s the type of production I love to be a part of. I’m not a trained actor. I just go by instinct. When I get to work in an authentic setting, it’s easier for me. The less I have to pretend, the better performance I can give. I’m not a great pretender.
