landynbanx - PRESS

Here are some of my recent interviews. If you would like to interview me, you can e-mail me at landyn@landynbanx.com to set up an interview.

Interview with Andrew Miller of Thisweek Newspaper, Apple Valley, Minnesota. Friday, June 24th, 2011.

Banx will be in northern Minnesota shooting his scenes in Girl Scout Cookies, the latest in a string of indie-horror film roles for the 31-year-old Apple Valley actor.

The aspiring scream king his play on the phrase scream queen denoting a violence-prone horror film starlet is cast in a supporting role in Girl Scout Cookies. He plays Ryan, a character he describes as the overly flamboyant comic relief.

The film, whose cast includes noted indie scream queens such as Monique Dupree, Jessica Cameron and Melanie Robel, follows six couples who head into the woods for a romantic weekend of camping that, sure enough, soon turns murderous.

Comic relief or not, if Banxs past indie-horror roles are any indication, there will be blood.

In the 2008 film Terror Overload, Banxs character does a hack-and-slash job on a woman hes invited over for dinner. The tables were turned in 2009s Camp Kill, in which his character gets murdered while walking through the woods late at night.

The guy impaled me with pruning shears and ripped my guts out, said Banx. I look pretty good for a dead guy.

Banx, whose horror-film resume also includes Tales of the Dead and 16 Heads and Counting, hasnt limited himself to gore-drenched slasher flicks as he works toward his goal of a Hollywood film career.

Last year, he was cast in the Christian family drama Lightning Strikes Twice, which is currently in post-production, and he marks an uncredited part in the Oscar-nominated Coen brothers film A Serious Man as a minor coup in his acting career.

As for the specifics of his potentially grisly, shriek-laden fate in Girl Scout Cookies, mums the word, at least until the film is released.

1. Mr. Banx, can you explain how you first got into the movie business?

I first got into the movie business in the fall of 2006 on a whim. It was always a childhood dream of mine to be able to be in a movie. After years of finally tossing around the idea a co-worker finally encouraged me to go to Craigslist and check out the ads looking for actors for films. I went home that night and saw an ad on Craigslist looking for actors for a feature length horror film and I sent them an e-mail. At that time I had no resume and no head shot. But I told them I was a huge horror fan and they e-mailed me back within a day to set up an audition. I met with them in October of 2006 at the local Caribou Coffee down the street from where I live. I was so nervous since this was my first audition. After talking with them for an hour or so they offered me a part in their film. I remember telling them, "Can I think about it and get back to you in a few days?" I told them YES three days later with glee. Then we went into rehearsals in January of 2007 and shot on and off between February and March of that year. The film was "Tales of the Dead." My first film, and best of all, a horror film.

2. Would you please explain your acting role in "Terror Overload?"

I play Edward in the "Dinner Date" segment of "Terror Overload: Tales From Satan's Truck Stop," a full length horror anthology film from NFTS Productions. Edward is your average guy next door but with a secret. He is a quirky character that you actually might like in the first few minutes of the film until you find out how his dates end. Then you might not like him so much!!! A funny story about the casting of this film. I was not the original actor chosen to portray Edward. I was going to play Ray Rae in the "Mongo Chupa" segment of the film. Director Jason Stephenson e-mailed me and told me to trust him and that he wanted me to play Edward instead of playing the part of Ray Rae. He said this would work out for the best so I said yes and no other reason was given. I was excited when I found out that Ari Lehman, Jason from the original "Friday the 13th" was going to be playing the part of Ray Rae and was so happy to be in the same film with him after growing up watching "Friday the 13th" for years. You can purchase "Terror Overload" on http://www.amazon.com.

3. Knowing how movie reviews may skew the perception of one's product, give us in your own words what you want people to know about the film.

I would say that "Terror Overload" is the kind of film that you can enjoy if you don't take it seriously and just have fun watching it. You have to watch it with a sense of humor and enjoy it for what it is as there are some great moments in it. It has an all star cast of independent actors such as Ari Lehman, Nicole Kruex, Scarlet Salem, Rachel Grubb, and Joe Knetter in it too. Maybe many years from now "Terror Overload" could be anindependent cult film. Who knows? Only time will tell though!!

4. If there was one part of the filming that was more difficult than you expected, what would that be? Getting a costume to work? Appearing in a certain scene? Certain lines?

One of the mostdifficult things about filming was when I had to cut the bra off of Rachel Grubb after using a real knife to toy with her. We had one take to get this right and when I started to cut the bra, the scissors I was using were very dull. That is when you see me take the bra and rip it in two to get it off of her. That part was not planned, it just happened. This was alsoone of the first times I was in a scene in a film that had any nuditiy in it. However, Rachel Grubb and I appeared in many films together and were comfortable with each other in working together and wetrusted each other to pull the scene off. When I filmed the scene at the end of the film where Edward appears, it was cold as the scene was filmed near a lake in the early hours of the morning deep in the woods. We had a fire going to keep us warm. I was freaked out by the location, especially driving so deep into the woods on a dark night. Then when Nicole Kruex and I got to the location where we were filming, Joe Knetter came running at us with a real chainsaw. I thought, "Wow!! This feels like I'm in the middle of a horror movie." Then I realized we were filming one and thought how cool it was after all!! I was also worried when I had to fall face down on the ground for fear that I would hit a rock or something as I could not see where I was falling. But I lived to tell the tale and am glad the way it all turned out. Where are the stunt men on independent films when you really need them? LOL!!!

5. Can you tell me a little bit about some of your other films and maybe a brief story about it?

"Tales of the Dead:" This was my very first film, a five part horror anthology in which I play the lead Vince Prizein "The Radio" segment and the victim in the "Mistress of the Tower" segment. I was so anxious, nervous, and excited to be a part of it. The first night we filmed at an antique store that was owned by a friend of my mom's. It was bitterly cold and the other actor didn't show up to shoot his scene. I thought my film career would be over before it even started. But Merle Johnson filled in at the last minute and stepped out from behind the camera to be in front of the camera and play the creepy shop owner who sells me the antique radio. We reshot my original death scene over a year later when the director Tim Rasmussen came up with a better death for me. After hitting my head so hard on the table while filming this scene, I had a huge bump on the back of my head for days. I kept trying to tell myself that "Pain is temporary. Film is forever." I had so much fun being in a film and have great memories from my time on this film. I think that no matter how many projects I do that "Tales of the Dead" will always be very near and dear to me since it was my first film and that because it has brought me to where I am now. You would not be interviewing me now if it weren't for "Tales of the Dead" and I'm so grateful to Haunted Autumn Productions for giving me this chance. For more information on "Tales of the Dead" you can check out http://www.hauntedautumn.com or purchase the film on http://www.amazon.com. This film also lead to me casting my first film, "Trinity," by Merle Johnson of Merle Productions.

"Night on Has Been Mountain:" "Night on Has Been Mountain" is the second film I'm working on with Tim Rasmussen and Merle Johnson of Haunted Autumn Productions. It centers around a young news reporter named Burton Lapp who goes out to find out whatever happened to the monsters of yesteryear. Along the way he encounters many creatures of the night played by variuos independent actors such as Nicole Kruex, Rachel Grubb, Scarlet Salem, Ari Lehman, Joe Knetter, and Derek Dirlam. Linnea Quigley even gets in on the fun and gives some insight into acting in independent films. This film should be available sometime in 2011 for release.

"Potpourri:""Potpourri" is an independent feature length horror/comedy film directed by Elliot Diviney of Diviney Pictures. Brandon Van Vliet, the producer of the film, got in touch with me on behalf of Elliot to offer me the role of Preston Fenwick in the film. It is a small cameo but my character plays a significant role in the film. I had lots of fun being a part of this film and am looking forward to the release of it sometime in 2011. For more information on "Potpourri" and to check out the trailer, please check out the website at http://www.potpourrimovie.com/.

"The City:"I have a cameo as a victim in the feature length shock film "The City." I filmed my scenes on a cold night in the middle of March at the old haunted Soap Factory in Minneapolis, MN. I was the last actor to shoot my scenes that night after waiting for the other actors to film for 7 hours. After filming I drove home during a blizzard. But it was worth it. "The City" was directed by James Vogel and should be available for purchase in the near future.

"Camp Kill:" I heard about auditions for the feature film "Camp Kill" in the spring of 2008 when I was in the midst of filming about a half dozen films at the same time. Uff da!!! I was reluctant to find out that once I got the part it was filming in the summer and I could breathe a bit easier. I play the part of the camp counselor Lenny. It's a small part but a lot of fun. I remember being sprayed down in between takes with bug spray because the mosquitoes were horrible in the location where we filmed my scenes. "Camp Kill" is an epic horror/comedy film that was directed by Nate Hanley. You can purchase the film at http://campkill.com/. Sadly, while writing this, I found out that Ken Hanley, who served as a Jack of all trades on "Camp Kill" and who also played the killer in the film, passed away on September 2nd of this year. My thoughts are with his son Nate during this difficult time. Rest in peace Ken. You were a great guy!!!

6. Is there any movie director or producer you've never worked for that you really want to work for one day?

Oh yes!! There are lots of directors and producers out there that I'd love to work with someday. Tobe Hooper, John Carpenter, Sean S.Cunningham, James Cameron, Woody Allen, Martin Scorsese, Joseph Zito, Danny Steinmann, Marcus Nispel, and Adam Marcus, just to name a few, as well as any new director or director of independent films. I would love to film outside of MN so get in touch with me if you need the guy next door who has a secret, the crazy on the prowl, the gay party boy, or the quirky sidekick. I'm your man!!! Hee, hee!!!!

7. What do you look for when picking projects?

I usually try to pick out projects that are creative and fun and that havea different character in them that I've not portrayed before. I try to look at the writing of the script and also try to analyze the character I'd be portraying to see if they have something in them that I can draw uponto relate to them in my performance. I have had some directors get in touch with me after seeing me in a certain role in afilm and having a character in their film that they know I would be perfect for. I always feel humbled and honored when this happens and am glad that they have found something in my work that they enjoy and that they want to have me in their film.

8. Anything you wish to add for my readers and visitors? Something special about you that they probably do not know.

There are lots of fun and interesting things about me that most people don't know. I sometimes think that my real life is far more interesting than any film I've been in. But maybe that's just me. Let's see. For starters I am very shy. Believe it or not, yes I am. But never in the midst of a camera. Then I come out of my shell. I also have some Indian ancestry in me. My first job was at KFC. I was married on December 31st, 1999, at the Chapel of Love at the Mall of America. I was married for nearly 3 years before I came out of the closet on September 11th, 2001. Yes!! I do things in a big way I know. I have dined with Irish McCalla, the original "Sheena, Queen of the Jungle," and George P. Wilbur, Michael Myers from "Halloween 4 and 6," along with Warren Anderson and Nicole Kruex. I am a lyricist and have written lyrics to over 300 songs since 1998. I recorded my first song "Who Did You Call Baby Last Night" in 2009. The character of Lathan Bronx from the Ginger Stein: Rise of the Undead" comic book by Dennis Willman is based on me and I also modeled for the character. Aside from horror movies I also love classic movies from the Golden Age of Hollywood. My favorite actress/entertainer from that era is Mae West. I am related to Canadian strongman Louis Cyr (1863-1912), "the strongest man who ever lived." I am also related to the world famous Dionne Quintuplets from Canada and to Saint Brother Andre of Canada as well as King Baldwin V of Hainaut, France. My childhood was featured in the October 1988 edition of Country Home Magazine. And that's all I can think of for now!!!!!

9. Finally...this is an "Obscure Horror Movie" website. Can you name the last horror movie you watched either at the theatres or on dvd, etc.? How about name a favorite horror film that you have seen that most people probably haven't seen?

The last horror movie I watched was the documentary "His Name Was Jason." I love this DVD and it's so much fun to see the actors from the film series and what they look like today. Did I mention that the "Friday the 13th" film series are my favorite horror movies? They are. I grew up with these movies asa kid, sneaking behind my parents' back to watch them. I love them and still do!! They are great!!! I would love to be involved with any new "Friday the 13th" film shall they ever make some more down the road. That would be one of my dream roles. I'm also looking forward to seeing the new "Saw 3D" in the theater soon. And I love the "Sleepaway Camp" series as well and the gay-themed horror film "Hellbent." I also love some very obscure horror movies, particularly ones that were referred to as HORROR HAG movies, which refers to older actresses from the Golden Era of Hollywoodin the twilight of their career appearing in a low budget horror film. Some of my obscure favorites are Miriam Hopkins in "Savage Intruder," Tallulah Bankhead in "Die, Die, My Darling," Gloria Swanson in "Killer Bees," "Joan Crawford in "Trog," and Anita Page in Witchcraft XI: Sisters in Blood." I love to watch these wonderful actresses step in front of the camera again during their later years and have some fun with their roles. I also have a huge collection of horror films, a lot of them obscure along with some of the classics as well.

10. Thank you very much for doing this.

You're very welcome Rich. Thanks for interviewing me. I would also love to thank my family, friends, and fans without whom none of this would be possible.

After the Shamrock Film Festival screenings, I pulled local actor/model Landyn Banx aside to talk about his journey as a performer thus far. Check it out:

Dan:

Landyn, how did your acting career begin?

Landyn:

I dove into the film world in the fall of 2006. I went on my first audition for a low budget horror movie. It was always a childhood dream of mine, I just went for it and it actually took off. Here I am, four years later after working on a hundred plus projects. Sometimes I pinch myself to make sure it's all real...

Dan:

What happened for you to decide to just go for it?
Landyn:

Well, someone asked me what I wanted to do with my life and I said I've just always wanted to be an actor and entertain people. They said I'm not going to get it done just talking about it so finally, one night, someone told me I should check out craigslist. So I went home that night, looked it up, and found a listing for an independent horror film casting. I remember emailing them saying something like "I don't have any acting experience, a resume, or a headshot but, please just give me a shot because I really love horror movies and I really think I could do this". Then I got the part. It was shot in an antique store in Minneapolis that was owned by a friend of my moms of about 20 years. When that clicked, I thought to myself that it was meant to be.

Dan:
Can you talk a little about the scene here in Minnesota? Do you prefer to stay here or head out to one of the coasts?

Landyn:

Well, first of all, this is where I grew up and my family is here. I don't know where my career will take me down the road but, for the time being I'm here. I'm just going to enjoy what I can here. It would be fun to go out to LA, New York, or Chicago to see what something else has to offer but, I feel like it would be starting back at square one. Id take the four years of work and networking here and just scratch it to start all over.

Dan:
I guess being a lead in an indie film would beat standing in a line of 400 people to audition for "pool guy number 3" in a bigger budget movie.
Landyn:
You have a good point there Dan. Now, I've done enough projects that people will just call me to work on their film. I did a movie one time and it led to about seven or so other projects just because people on the set were making their own movies as well. I do believe it is all in who you know and I try to treat everyone the same because I'm so thankful that I get to do this. It's something I've always wanted do as a kid and it happened. I also wanted to be an author and a singer and I do some of that as well.

Dan:
Is that something the readers can find online?

Landyn:

They can check out http://www.landynbanx.com/. I just have my one song "who'd you call baby last night". I'm trying to work on a full length album and some Christmas songs in the next few months. I'm trying to do that before the holidays arrive so hopefully that will all pan out. I've also done a lot of modeling for photographers in the area. To have a career, I feel like you have to dabble in a little bit of everything. Acting is definitely the number one thing I do but, I would like to have my full CD done. Also, I just modeled for a comic book. It was for Dennis Willman out of Arizona. They were actually shown at comic con in September! One thing just leads to another and its all in who you know. Be good to everybody and no backstabbing! Haha!

Dan:
You know, I see a ton of talent here in the twin cities. I see talented writers, directors, cinematographers and actors. I think its just about getting the right team together so everyone is on the same page. I think its just a matter of time until a local independent film blows up.

Landyn:

Oh, yeah, something is definitely bound to take off. It hasnt happened with the last hundred projects but, maybe its in the next. I would love to have this be my only profession but, whether or not this leads to that, Ive already had a dream come true and Ive had more fun in the last four years than Ive had in my entire life. Ive met thousands of interesting people on all kinds of projects. Ive been on projects with one person and no budget to a 75-100 person crew with a budget in the millions. Its fun to see all different aspects of filmmaking.

Dan:

Do you have any advice for anyone that would like to get involved with acting, performing, or advice in general on living your dreams?

Landyn:

I would tell everyone to do what makes you happy and just go for it. Dont let anybody tell you that you cant do it. You can live the life that you want to live. Dont waste it living someone elses life. The minute someone tells me that I cant do something, Im going to go out and prove them wrong. Have faith and confidence in yourself and take that with you wherever you go. Promote yourself, toot your own horn. No ones going to do it for you. Network with people and be a good person. I believe that its a gift that was given to choose what you want in life. If you are given a special talent, then just take it and run with it. Theres always going to be people that love what you do and those that dont. None of that matters. Just show the world what youre made of.

Dan:

Thank you Landyn, youre an inspiration to us all. If an agent, manager, or any fan wants to get a hold of you, whats the best way to reach you?

Landyn:

Just check out my webpage at http://www.landynbanx.com/ and you can email me there. Its Landyn@LandynBanx.com. You can also search for Landyn Banx on Facebook.

Dan:

Alright, thank you very much Landyn!!!

Quick links to reach Landyn:

Homepage: http://www.landynbanx.com/

For Landyn on Facebook: Click Here

Though its a role the Apple Valley resident and aspiring film star remembers well.

Banx traces his interest in acting to first grade, when he played one
of three leaping frogs in a production of The Little Red Hen at
Jefferson Elementary in his native Faribault.

Since then, there was always this desire to act and entertain people,
said Banx, who described himself as a shy kid who weathered an ill
and awkward adolescence. As a kid, I just thought if I could grow up
to be in one movie, that would be great.

That childhood dream has blossomed into a professional acting career
thats included more than 80 film projects feature films, indie
films, commercials and music videos since he decided to get serious
about acting in 2006.

In October 2006, a friend suggested Banx peruse the ads seeking actors on Craigslist. It wasnt long before he was auditioning for a part in Tales of the Dead, a low-budget horror film so low-budget, in fact, that the informal audition was held at Caribou Coffee on Cedar Avenue in Apple Valley.

His part in Tales of the Dead whet his appetite for film stardom, so much so that he changed his name. Born Chris Bollenbach, hes credited in all the films hes appeared in as Banx, and is now in the process of having his name legally changed.

Its a whole identity, like a character, he said. Im going to make that name something Im going to make that name memorable.

A watershed moment came when Banx landed an uncredited part in the Oscar-nominated Coen brothers film A Serious Man. He plays a physics student during a dream sequence in the film.

And the roles keep coming. This past week he was rubbing elbows with the likes of Alan Arkin, Greg Kinnear and Billy Crudup for a scene in The Convincer, a feature-length film being shot locally.

Every day Im out there, said Banx, who maintains a Web site advertising his talents at www.landynbanx.com. My advice to anyone who has a dream: Go for it. No ones going to come and hand it to you on a plate.

Banx, who sidelines as a server at Chianti Grill, said he hasnt ruled out the possibility of some day moving to Hollywood.

Ive never flown on a plane, he said. But I figure if the moneys good enough Ill take the chance.

Its a good thing movies arent cast based on the actors knowledge of the director.

It certainly worked in favor of Landyn Banx, who has a small part in A Serious Man, an Academy-Award nominated movie from brothers Joel and Ethan Coen.

Its funny, because Id never really heard about them, said Banx. I hadnt seen any of their films.

The movie parts of which were filmed just up the road in Northfield, in the old science building at St. Olaf College is available on video and DVD.

Its a big step for Banx, who graduated in 1998 from Faribault High School.

I was really a shy kid, he said. I did a few plays in elementary school, but my brother turned out to be the one to do all the junior high plays. I was such an introvert.

Still, though, I always loved acting; I was very passionate about the arts. I always told my family that Id win an Oscar someday.

In fact, he would practice signing autographs as Chris Bollenbach.

Although he has yet to legally change his name, Banx said hes rarely called Chris anymore, even by friends and family.

They understand its all about the business, he said. I associate my stage name with success; the name has brought me happiness and some fortune.

He chose a name that would stand out, said the self-described former wallflower.

Now Im totally opposite; I love the camera, he said. I wanted to make a statement.

Banx has appeared in more than 90 Minnesota acting projects since 2007, but none as large as the Coen movie.

Just to be on a big set, to be around all the magic and see it all, its just amazing, he said. Its a well-oiled machine. Ive done my share of independent, low-budget, no-budget movies.

That includes about 60 films, 10 music videos, a few infomercials and some commercials for the Minnesota tourism campaign.

I prefer film, Banx said. Theater is too nerve-wracking for me, and you have to devote so many nights to rehearsal. I can do 5 to 10 films in the same amount of time.

Hes still waiting for that big break, he admitted.

I still have a regular job, where I can go and be a normal person, Banx said, and then go and act and be a better person. But its tough to make a living.

That doesnt mean theres not a lot of work going on in the state, he said. Im biding my time; right now Im a big fish in a little pond.

In fact, Minnesota is widely recognized for its theater community, said producer/director and writer Nicole Kruex.

Often, scouts will come looking here, because we have such a great reputation, she said.

Banx describes himself as a character actor.

Im usually a side kick or best friend to the lead character, he said. Or you know that next-door neighbor that you think is really nice, but turns out to be really crazy? Thats me.

Kruex, who started her acting career with Banx, said he is a chameleon.

He works so hard. Really, it all comes down to how animated he is, she said. Hes so likable; he rarely has a bad word to say about anyone or anything. It comes across really well on the screen.

The Internet, Banx said, has been a God-send in his career.

I went to college for marketing for just a short time but it worked out, he said, because I learned how to market myself. Some people just fizzle, because their work just sits there.

Interesting choice of words for Banx, who Kruex describes as effervescent.

So might he change his focus, perhaps become an agent to those people whose work just fizzles?

No, Banx said without hesitation. The place for me and my personality is in front of the camera.

INTERVIEW WITH RACHEL GRUBB FOR THE CHAINSAW MAFIA

Landyn Banx was born in Owatonna, MN, on June 26th. He grew up in Faribault, MN. As a child, he always wanted to be an actor and be in the spotlight. That dream came true when he landed his first film role in "Tales of the Dead" by Haunted Autumn Productions in 2007. Since then, he has acted in over 65 acting projects in MN including films, both independent, student, and short, as well as the local television series "The Show So Gay," music videos, commercials, infomercials, Internet comedy skits, and Internet educational videos for Augsburg College. He is also a member of TRIWAR Pictures. Aside from acting, Landyn also enjoys modeling and writing songs. You can find more about Landyn Banx by checking out his official website at www.landynbanx.com and his official MYSPACE page at www.myspace.com/landynbanx. I have had the pleasure of acting with him many times, and he was kind enough to sit down and talk with me about many of the projects we have worked together on.

Rachel: Thank you for talking with me Landyn. Do you want to tell our readers how we met?

Landyn: Thank you so much for meeting with me Rachel!! I appreciate it. Before I met you, I heard about you in October 0f 2006. You were actually the first MN actress that I ever heard of and I still vividly remember seeing your head shot that Tim and Lisa Rasmussen showed me. That was my first film "Tales of the Dead." That was also the first audition I ever went on. I was astounded when I landed a role in the film, a feature film, no less on my first audition.

Rachel: Yes, "Tales Of The Dead"! It was funny, we actually have a scene in "The Radio" together, but my role was filmed several months after yours was. We don't appear in the shot together, because it wasn't the same day.

Landyn: Wow!! Sounds like you had fun. Anyway, back to your original question. I first remember meeting you in June of 2007 in Minneapolis off of University Avenue at an audition for a film called "Fried Bacon." You were in line ahead of me and I introduced myself and gave you a business card and said that we were in "Tales of the Dead" together. That is the first time I remember meeting you. It has been fun to get to know you over the last two years and work together on many projects.

Rachel: Yes, and then you ended up auditioning for my film, "Why Am I in a Box?" and got cast as a cop. So be honest, Landyn, what was it like being directed by me?

Landyn: It was a lot of fun to be a cop in your film "Why Am In In A Box?" You did a great job directing your first film, a full length feature nonetheless. As well as writing in it and acting in it too. It was fun to be directed by a woman as you are one of the few female directors that I have had. The best part for me about being in your film was the first day I shot a scene. It was with Matthew Feeney and Johnny Fuerst. Then the wonderful and talented Carol Vnuk showed up to film. She had all of us laughing during her scene. That is the most memorable part of the film for me. I cannot wait to see it when it comes out!! Thanks for having me in your film by the way.

Rachel: The first time we really got a chance to work together was on NFTS Productions' Terror Overload. How did you get involved with the project?

Landyn: You're right Rachel!! We had been in numerous projects together up until "Terror Overload" but we really got to know each other well that weekend while filming. It was a lot of fun and I'm glad we had that opportunity. I got involved with "Terror Overload" when a good friend of mine, actor H.T. Altman, who was in NFTS' "Doomed To Consume," with you as well, told me about the project in May of 2008. I was so excited that I e-mailed Jason Stephenson right away and told him I would love to be in his film if he would have me. He responded with a yes. I have always enjoyed watching NFTS' films and remember the first time I met Jason and Jon Warner at Crypticon 2007. They were screening their latest short film "Pajama Party Massacre" with Scarlet Salem, Elske McKain, and Joe Knetter. I had a good visit with Jason and become friends with him. We stayed in touch over the ensuing months and voila!! Here is a bit of unknown "Terror Overload" trivia. When Jason first contacted me about the film he gave me some characters to choose from. Another actor was set to star opposite you in "Dinner Date." So I read "Mongo Chupa" and really liked the role of Ray Rae. I assured Jason I would grow my hair out and do all of the fun stuff the role required. He told me I had the part. Then a few weeks later he e-mailed me and told me he wanted me to play Edward in "Dinner Date" opposite you as Jill. I said not a problem. I then found out, on IMDb, that Ari Lehman, Jason from the original "Friday the 13th," was going to be playing Ray Rae. I could not believe it!! I am so happy things turned out the way they did though. Did you have fun acting along side me for the first time?

Rachel: Of course! Doesn't everyone who works with you? I really enjoyed filming the "Dinner Date" segment, specifically because I got to hang out with you. I had met you several times, but working on "Dinner Date" was when we got to really talk. Since you already mentioned Tales of the Dead by Haunted Autumn Productions, how was your experience working with them?

Landyn: I had a blast working with Tim and Lisa Rasmussen of Haunted Autumn Productions. Since "Tales of the Dead" was my first film, it will always hold a special place in my heart. I owe my career to Tim and Lisa for giving an unknown wannabe actor the part of Vince Prize in "The Radio" segment of the film. Had they told me no, I probably would have not pursued acting. I still remember when I met with them for the first time at Caribou Coffee near my place. I was so nervous since this was my first audition. But they made me feel very comfortable like I had known them forever. When they told me that I had the part, I remember telling them if I could think about it for a couple of days and get back to them with my answer!! I was very naive and green. Needless to say, I said yes and the rest is history. I really liked how they meshed the two scenes together even though we weren't filming at the same time. How was that experience for you since I wasn't there?

Rachel: It was so fun! Tim did this great makeup for me as Augmenta that looked like my skin had been ripped off, and just the muscle was left on my face. It took forever to get off though. The next day, I was walking around and people kept asking, "What happened to your face?" I didn't get it all off!

Since you got me involved in the Twin Cities local program, The Show So Gay, would you like to tell our readers about the show, and our roles in it?

Landyn: Well I am so glad you accepted the part. Thank you so much for being a part of the fun Rachel. "The Show So Gay" (www.theshowsogay.com) was brought to my attention by Nicole Kruex in August of 2008. After a few days of hesitating, I finally e-mailed Chris Durant, creator of the show, and went to the first production meeting that same month. The show revolved around the everyday exploits of Joe and Lucas, the two main actors in the show. They do everything from cruising for dates to shopping to therapy sessions together. While at the meeting, we talked about the direction of the show. I knew I wanted to be in front of the camera acting so we came up with the idea that I am married to a butch woman, while I myself am very feminine. The verdict is still out on our "orientation," but time will tell. We are going to be filming "The Show So Gay: The Gay Mob" movie soon. Are you excited about that?

Rachel: I can't wait to do that! I love my horror, but it's great to be doing something that's non-horror, just for a change of pace. I love playing your wife! I never thought I would be able to pull off the role of a butch woman, but so far it's going pretty well. Do you want to let people know where they can see The Show So Gay?

Landyn: As of right now Rachel, people can view episode 1 of "The Show So Gay" on the official website at www.theshowsogay.com and also on YOUTUBE. Episode 2 will be coming soon and we are filming episode 3 as we speak. I am so excited. The show is slated to air locally on MN public access. We hope that it gets picked up by a major network. That would be sweet. Also, check out the music video we filmed at the Saloon in Minneapolis, MN, for the show's theme song "So Gay." You do a great job playing my wife, Rachel. I love your look in the music video when you are texting on the phone. Classic!!

Rachel: Thank you. You are a big horror fan, aren't you? What are some of your favorite movies and directors?

Landyn: You are right Rachel!! I love horror movies and have somewhere around 3,000 in my collection. Some of my favorite horror films are all of the "Friday the 13th" films, "Halloween" films, and all other sorts of eighties slashers. I love the low budget slasher films with the stereotypical characters. You know, the cheesy ones? I also enjoy the "Slumber Party Massacre" and "Sorority House Massacre" movies. Anything that involves camping in the woods as well. I love the original "Night of the Living Dead" film too. That is one of the earliest film memories I have, as well as "Psycho 2." I really don't have a favorite director, but I would probably say that George Romero is one of them. You like European horror films right? Lucio Fulci is one of your favorite directors if I recall!!

Rachel: I'm not so big on Fulci, although I have seen a lot of his movies. I do love the Italian stuff. Dario Argento is my favorite. I like a lot of foreign horror. I like the Korean films Memento Mori and A Tale Of Two Sisters. And I love the Spanish film The Orphanage.

Landyn: I remember now that you said Argento. I confuse the two of them sometimes. I knew it was a famous director in Europe though that was one of your favorites!!

Rachel: So, what are your goals as an actor? What would be your dream role?

Landyn: My goals as an actor are to never stop growing in the development of the characters that I portay and to always keep learning my craft and getting better at it. There is always something to learn and I enjoy being on sets and watching and listening to the crew and hearing the technical terms that they use. It was especially fun being on the sets of "Nobody," executive produced by Minnesota's own Josh Hartnett and "A Serious Man," directed by Minnesota's own Academy Award winning Joel and Ethan Coen. It was so much fun to see how the bigger budget movies work. I compare it to a well oiled machine. Everyone has a part to play and the better the parts fit together, the better the machine runs. My dream role would be to play a very dramatic role that brings the audience to tears and moves them in a powerful way so that they leave the movie feeling better about themselves and the world around them. It has always been my goal as an actor to make those watching my films smile or laugh. Just to move the audience in any way possible. To me that is a successful performance and that's why I do what I do.

Rachel: How did you get involved in acting?

Landyn: It has always been my dream since I was a child to be an entertainer. Whether it be an actor, singer, writer, or whatever, I knew then and I know now that this is what I was born to do. To entertain people. This is what I am good at and all that I know how to do. I first got involved with acting back in September of 2006 when a friend I was working with told me that if I wanted to get into acting that I should check out Craigslist for acting gigs. I had never heard of Craigslist before so I went home that night and looked on there. Then I found an ad looking for actor for a feature length horror film, "Tales of the Dead," and I sent them a picture and told them I didn't have a resume yet as I was just getting started. I heard back from Tim and Lisa Rasmussen within a day and set up an audition a month later in October of 2006. I got the role, a lead nonetheless, and the last two and a half years have been the best time of my life. I never would have dreamed in my wildest dreams that I would have done all of the fun things I have done being an actor. I had an epiphany and knew acting was what I was meant to do when I heard from Tim and Lisa that the antique store they picked to film my scene for "Tales of the Dead" in was that of a friend of the family. I was like, "Wow." I cannot believe this is happening." Since then I have gone on to do over 65 projects ranging from feature, student, and short films, to tv series, infomercials, commercials, music videos, Internet comedy skits, and Internet videos. I have also been modeling a lot lately, which I love. You and I have done a lot of modeling together Rachel!! Thanks so much. It has been a blast!!

Rachel: What do you like about the Twin Cities film community?

Landyn: I think that the Twin Cities film community is wonderful. I have had my childhood dream of becoming an actor come true due to the wonderful people in this community and I cannot thank them enough. I also like the closeness that people share. The community is small and almost everyone knows everyone so when you go to a set you may see people that you have worked with on several other projects. It feels like a big family and I like that. You get to know so many wonderful people. Minnesota has a great amount of talent and I hope that it is recognized more in the future. What do you like best about the MN film community Rachel?

Rachel: There is always so much going on here. So many projects and people. If it weren't for everyone here, I never would have gained the experience I have and learned to make movies for myself. We help each other out.

Landyn: You are right Rachel!! It is like a big family!! It feels like a reunion everytime you arrive on a set and work with wonderful people that you have worked with before. It's a good feeling!!

Rachel: Do you have any advice for young people interested in acting? What do you think they should know?

Landyn: I would tell anyone interested in acting to follow their dreams and their heart. I would let them know that dreams do come true and if they believe in themselves and work hard, they can accomplish anything. I would also tell them to be grateful for any opportunity that comes their way. I have always taken the projects that come my way because I never know what it will turn out to be. I don't want to pass up on something only to find that it becomes the next big thing to come out of Minnesota. I think anyone who wants to be an actor should know that you cannot take rejection personally. Directors and casting directors have a certain vision in their mind of what they want a particular character to look like and act like. When the right person walks in with what they are lookig for, that is who they consider/choose for the role. Never give up and persevere and you will go far!! I thought as a young child that if I could be in one film in my entire life that I would be happy. And now I've been in over 65 projects. Also keep in mind that this can be a tough business. Find someone to be your mentor to talk to when the times get tough and they can help encourage you and see you through. And last but not least!! Have fun with it and never take yourself too seriously. Enjoy the process of creating and bringing to life a new character for the world to enjoy!!

Thank you so much for this sit down interview Rachel!! It has been a lot of fun. This has been one of the first times we have gotten to sit down and chat in a long time. We are usually running around on a set or getting hair and make-up done together but there is not much time to sit and chat. It was a nice visit. I have one final question for you now too. Out of the 19 projects, I counted, that we have been in together, what has been your favorite project that we have worked on?

Rachel: I had the most fun working on TO with you. It was the first time we got to really talk, and you were such a joy to work with. It's so nice to work with someone who takes his work seriously, but not himself too much! You were professional, but not afraid to laugh and have fun, and you were considerate and patient with everyone on set.

Landyn: My favorite of yours was "Terror Overload" and "Check, Please." What do you think was my best performance?

Rachel: I think your best performance was Danny in the short film "Perversions" that we did with Ted Dewberry. It was such a difficult role, and you nailed it. I played a very troubled woman who literally gets off on other people's misery, and you played her brother, who suffers from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. There were so many instances where you had great insticts, and you did a lot of things that were not scripted, but they worked well. It allowed me to be free with the role, too and just let this bizarre character go where she needed to go.

Interviews: An Interview with Landyn Banx - By Duane L. Martin
Posted on Friday, April 02, 2010 @ 00:05:00 Mountain Daylight Time by Duane

Landyn Banx has been a busy guy over the last few years. He's appeared in over 90 acting projects, helped start a production company, and he's even been putting together his first music album! This month I had a chance to talk to Landyn about all the exciting things going on in his life and career.

* * *

DM: Let's start off the interview, as I always do, by having you introduce yourself and tell us all a little bit about yourself and your background.

LB: My name is Landyn Banx and I'm an independent film actor in MN. I have been acting professionally since 2007. In that time I have appeared in over 90 MN acting projects, both big and small, including feature, short, and student films, music videos, commercials, informercials, internet videos, and several webisode series. I am also one of the founding members of TRIWAR Pictures, along with Nicole Kruex and Warren Anderson. Aside from acting, I do some modeling and am currently working on a full lengh CD of my original songs as well.

DM: You acted in a few things as a kid, but in general you didn't do much until way later. Tell us about the sort of "chance" way you got back into it and how your career took off from there.

LB: I was very shy growing up and only had some acting experience in a few elementary school plays. The first one was as a frog in "The Little Red Hen" in first grade. Then I played Bob Cratchit in "A Christmas Carol." I also won a book writing contest which helped to ignite the fire to entertain and create. I got my first "on camera experience" when I was in third grade and producers and directors from the ABC Home Show were at my house filming a segment to air on television after my childhood home was featured in "Country Home Magazine" back in 1988. I was riding my bike down the street toward the camera. That started something down inside that I wasn't able to forget. However, I would forget it for many years during a quirky and awkward adolescence until 2006. It was then that I heard about Craigslist from a friend at work. I went home that night and found an ad looking for actors for a feature length horror film called "Tales of the Dead." I love horror movies so I jumped at the chance. I sent them a snap shot, told them I didn't have a resume, and that I hadn't acted in years but that I really wanted to audition for them and see what would happen from there. Haunted Autumn Productions responded to my inquiry within a day and I had my first audition in October of 2006 at the Caribou Coffee shop down the road from where I live. After the audition, they told me I had the part. I remember saying to them, "Can I think about it and let you know in a few days." Needless to say, I've never said that since. And the rest, as they say, "Is history!!"

DM: You've been in a rather large number of films in the last few years. Have you had any really challenging roles that really stretched your abilities as an actor? Also, have you had any roles that you found particularly difficult since you had a hard time identifying with the character?

LB: Yes!! There's been several different characters that I've played. I am usually cast as the quirky offbeat best friend or sidekick, or the guy next door who seems to be normal but is actually crazy. I always try to look at the character and try to find something in him that I can relate to in my own life and then draw upon that to breathe life into the character. However, there are times when I have found it difficult to relate to the character. One instance was in a film called "Lust." I got the part of Devon and was told by the director that the character was very mean. I think that in the end I brought a different dynamic to the character than what the director was looking for but that was still true to the character himself. Then I played a gamer in "The Polyhedron." I had a hard time trying to relate to this character of Dexter since I am not a gamer in real life. It was difficult to do and I had to do lots of research online to find out what exactly was going on in the script. The upside to that shoot was that I got to film some of the scenes at the beautiful Lake Minnetonka in the summer.

DM: You were one of the founders of TRIWAR Pictures with Nicole Kruex and Warren Anderson. Tell us about TRIWAR and how it all came together.

LB: TRIWAR Pictures came together in early 2008. I had met actor Warren Anderson on the set of "The Perfect Victim" in 2007. Shortly after that we were cast together in "Lust." There we met actress Nicole Kruex. After being in several projects together in the next few months, the three of us formed a bond and decided to form TRIWAR Pictures. We shot our first short film called "The Pact: Hob's Horn" in May of 2008 at the historic Mounds Theater in St. Paul, MN. I played Pete the bartender in that film, which is in post-production. TRIWAR Pictures also shot a short film called "Lemonade" in the fall of 2009, which is also in post-production. Keep an eye on TRIWAR because big things are happening with the company!!!

DM: Have you ever been injured, or had an otherwise scary experience that could have gotten you injured while shooting a film?

LB: There's been several times when I've had some close calls on the set of some of the films I've done. One of the first that I can remember is when I was filming my fourth film called "Suzy's Party." It was the last day of filming and we were shooting on the 16th floor of a high-rise apartment building in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. The cast of 7 or so were all jumping up and down on the bed for the ending dream sequence. I noticed that I was the one closest to the window. Then I looked out and realized the window was open and there was no screen on the window. I was scared and so glad when the director yelled cut and I had not fallen out of the window!!! I'm also glad no one pushed me out of the window too!! LOL!! The other time I had a close call was when I was filming "Hit Chicks." There were several close calls on this film. One involved fire. The other one involved running down several flights of 100 year old plus stairs with bird crap falling in my eyes, face, mouth, hair, etc. But the most dangerous scene was with me being on the ground in the middle of the road while a car was speeding towards me trying to run me over. After a few takes, the director wasn't satisfied with the slow speed in which the car was approaching me and told the driver to "speed it up." The car came at me at about 25-30 mph then and when it was within 5 feet of me, the two actresses in the scene were to run in, grab me by the arms, then pull me to safety. That was one of the most intense nerve wracking scenes I've ever had to do and I often wonder why I subjected myself to that. Needless to say, it was a very hard shoot physically. The real work began after filming wrapped and we had to fight like hell to get the footage from the film makers. I was finally able to get my hands on the footage, which is in the process of being edited and should hopefully be released sometime down the road. I also had another scene in my first film "Tales of the Dead" in which I was banging my head so hard on the table that I was tied to that I had a huge bump on my head for several days after that. But I always try to remember that pain is temporary and film is forever. That's what I was told the other day on the of "Masquerade" for my martini shot when I was doing a stunt!! I can't say anymore about that though at the moment.

DM: What are your favorite film genres and what kinds of roles do you like to play in those kinds of films?

LB: I love horror films and comedies. I am a huge fan on the films of the Golden Age of Hollywood and love the classics. Mae West is my favorite actress of all time while Corey Haim is one of my favorite actors of all time. I am still devastated and heartbroken over his recent passing and I have been revisiting some of his old movies to make me feel better. I've never been his this hard by the death of a celebrity. I feel that I could relate to some of the quirky characters that he portrayed in his films since I myself am quirky. Such a sad end to a talented life. May he rest in peace and be remembered for the work he left behind, not his personal demons. The horror films I have been involved in have had me playing both the good guy and the bad guy. But I love to play the bad guy because it's so much fun to explore the dark side of human nature and to give way to emotions that you cannot do in the real world otherwise you would be put behind bars for life and have the key thrown away on you. I also love comedies and love to make people laugh. When I get the chance to play a comedic part it is very cathartic for me and I enjoy it immensely. I always try to not take myself too seriously, especially in this business, and to always laugh at myself for the crazy things I do!!!

DM: What have been your best and worst experiences as an actor?

LB: I have had both good and bad experiences as an actor. The good experiences come when I have someone tell me that they were having a bad day and that they watched one of my films and that I was able to put a smile on their face and help them forget their troubles for awhile. That is what I like about being an actor. If I can move someone by one of my performances than I have done my job. It is also fun when people ask for autographs or to have their picture taken with me. I have even gotten fan mail from as far away as Croatia, which is flattering and takes awhile to get used to. On the flip side of things, acting can have a lot of downsides as well. It is hard to get a date. I have even had someone date me because I am an actor because they couldn't wait to drop my name to someone. I was so appalled by that. The relationship went nowhere. Then you also have people who think that you are fair game to pick on just because you are in the entertainment industry. They make us lies about you and try to cut you down. But I don't let them get to me. They are not worth me wasting my energy on and karma will get them in the end. I look at it like this. There are some people who will like what I have to offer as an actor. And there are some people who won't like me at all. Then there are some who are in the middle and will have no opinion. But that is just the way it is. I'm not in this industry to please anyone besides myself. I am doing what I love to do the way I know how to do it. And at the end of the day, that is all that matters.

DM: Let's move on now to the film you've just done with Jennifer Prettyman called "Masquerade." How did you first meet Jennifer, and how did it come about that you landed your role in this film?

LB: We actually just wrapped "Masquerade" a bit ago. It was a two month shoot and had so many different experiences, good and bad, all rolled into one. I first met Jennifer Prettyman at a photo shoot in March of 2009. We started talking about acting and she said she was in a film called "Summer School." I told her I had that movie. Then before you know it we were having our picture taken in the staircase of the old warehouse where the photo shoot was taking place. We quickly became FACEBOOK and MYSPACE friends and kept in touch regularly. We were both in "Camp Kill" (http://www.campkill.com) together, although we shot our scenes on different days. Then in October of 2009 Jennifer sent me a message saying that she was working on a film that she had written and that she was also going to be directing for the first time. She said that she had a role that I would be perfect for. She knew of me previously being married and that I had come out during my marriage so she knew I would be able to relate to the character of Adam. We had a four hour production meeting in November to write some of the dialog for the script and to talk about the message we wanted to get across with the film and where we wanted the characters to end up on their journey together. The story centers around two lonely strangers who meet at a bar and end up becoming friends through their tragedies. They form a bond and help to encourage one another to begin again. I was able to help cast several of the characters in the film with some dear actor friends of mine.

DM: Your character in the film is in a really bad situation. Tell us about the plot and how your character is involved in it, and also what it's like to play a character like that.

LB: I don't want to give away too much of the film. But here's a bit of information on Adam, the character I play in "Masquerade." Adam has been married for two years to Connie. Things aren't going the greatest because Adam is repressing his homosexual feelings. This puts him in between a rock and a hard place, especially since he grew up in a religious family. Adam tries to find his way though his predicament the best he knows how to do and soon finds he's only happy when he is with a certain someone. I can relate to the character of Adam a lot because I have personally walked in his shoes in my own life. Being married for nearly three years, I was trying to hide my homosexual feelings. But it all came to an end when I realized that I could no longer hide from myself. I was able to begin anew after a divorce and a relocation to another town. That is what Adam wants. Although he doesn't exactly know the right way to go about doing it.

DM: What were some of your notable experiences in making this film?

LB: I had many great experiences while making "Masquerade." I was able to be reunited onscreen with Jim Westcott and Janet Fogg, two dear actor friends of mine. I also had the opportunity to work for the first time with Jennifer Prettyman in scenes together so that was fun. And then we filmed at a breathtakingly beautiful mansion on Summit Avenue in St. Paul. This is where I filmed my first scene for the film and I was in awe. It was such a beautiful place and I was so excited to be able to be there in the middle of it all. And I also had a love scene or two!!!

DM: What advice do you have for people who are looking to get started in the business? What kinds of things should they watch out for, and what can they do to improve their chances of getting good roles?

LB: I would tell anyone who wants to pursue a career in the entertainment industry to be sure that this is what they want to do and to also have a back up plan and a regular job to fall back on to help them pay the bills until their career takes off, which may or may not happen. They are no doubt going to be living a crazy life and they will have to make a lot of sacrifices in order to get their name out there. They should also want to act for the art of acting and creating a character out of words on a piece of paper. If they get into acting for the money, they are going to be highly disappointed. It also takes time to create a name for themselves and to get good roles. It doesn't happen over night. They may have to take lots of extra gigs or do some student films to get experience in front of the camera. Also nothing is ever guaranteed in this business. You can work for months on a project only to have that project never see the light of day. It is very disheartening and disappointing when that happens, but that's the nature of the beast. They may want a part really bad only to find out that someone else got the part. They should also be aware that "NO" is a casting directors favorite word most of the time. I would advise people to be aware of those around them and to do research on those they are going to work with and to ask other experienced actors about certain people they have worked with and whether or not they had a good experience or a bad experience working with them. You also need to have a thick skin and not be affected negatively by criticism from others. Everyone thinks they know it all and will want to belittle you, be it jealousy or what not, when you start to make a name for yourself. Don't let them get to know and use that negative energy and turn it into something positive to put into your career to take you further. They should try to find a mentor or someone they can trust to help steer them in the right direction. It is also a good idea to create a website to show off your talents. And use the free sites like FACEBOOK, TWITTER, MODEL MAYHEM, MYSPACE, ETC., to promote themselves and their work. Remember that no one is going to hand you your career. You have to go out their and work your butt off for it. Keep in mind that no one is going to care as much about you or your career and the development of that career as yourself.

DM: Who are some of your favorite people to work with both in front of and behind the camera?

LB: I have so many wonderful people that I enjoy working with both in front of and behind the camera. To name one I would have to name them all and I would not want anyone to feel left out shall I forget their name. If we have worked together over the years and still keep in touch after several years on a regular basis, chances are you're on my favorites list. I have actually been very lucky so far. I have only had a handful of very bad experiences with people in the 90 plus projects that I've done.

DM: What are you working on currently and what do you have coming up in the near future?

LB: Well I just finished "Masquerade," which shot for two months, on and off. I also have an amazing film coming out in May of this year called "Faux," which is directed by Christopher Michael Beer of Falling Up Sky Pictures (http://www.fallingupsky.com). "Faux" has also been requested to play at a major New York Film Festival in June of this year and we're all very excited about that. I have a photo shoot/music video shoot with Xris Frank of FurtherMore Productions coming up. I am also having an interview conducted by Lee Lauer in the next month or so about me and my acting. I am currently in pre-production on a music video for my first song that was released in October of 2009 called "Who Did You Call Baby Last Night." I have a few more shoots to finish up on the film "Night On Has Been Mountain," which features cameos by Ari Lehman (Jason from the original Friday The 13th) and Scream Queen Linnea Quigley. I'm also currently taking advanced acting classes through Cynthia Uhrich of In The Moment Acting Studio. She is awesome and I highly recommend her to any actor looking to up their game!!! I am also helping out with the first annual Out Twin Cities Film Festival, which is taking place on June 1st and June 2nd of this year at The Heights Theater in Columbia Heights, MN. They are still accepting submissions. Check out the website here for more information on how you can submit your film:

http://www.outtwincitiesfilmfestival.com

DM: You have talents other than acting as well. I know you've been working on getting a music CD together. Tell us about that, and also about your musical collaborator, Stephan Robberts, whose composing the music for you on some of the tracks.

LB: I'm so excited about putting together my first CD of original songs. I was inspired to do so by Heather Arneson. She was the director of my third film "Necessary Lubrication" (which is not a porn, sorry). LOL!! She has a band called The Lyre Effect (http://www.myspace.com/thelyreeffect). If you've not heard of them, check out their music. It's very good!! I also appear in her music video for the song "Imperial Fortress" as a wounded soldier. The Lyre Effect is essentially poetry set to music. That is what I am trying to accomplish with my CD. I have been writing songs since 1998 and have penned between 200-300 in that time. Writing is such a great outlet for me and I love that I'm able to capture a moment in time with pen and paper. This spoken word CD is about taking 10 or so of those moments in time from my life and bringing them to life with the help of a pop techno beat, which I hope will make people want to dance, which I love to do. I would describe the music as spoken word pop dance techno music. What a mouthful that is. I have been blessed to be able to work with some amazingly talented composers on this CD thus far. Andrew Reilly, whom I met at a music video shoot in 2009, composed the music for my first song "Who Did You Call Baby Last Night," which recounts my New Years Eve 2004 break up in great detail. I am also working with Stephan Robberts (http://www.stephanrocks.com) on composing some music for a few songs on the CD. I met him at a premiere party for the show "Th3m" in December of 2009, in which he was in. He is a very talented musician/writer/actor. He also played Bryce in "Masquerade." I'm excited to be working with him on this project. Ian Carleton (http://www.myspace.com/ianhcarleton) is another talented composer working with me on this CD. He composed the music for my second song, which I just did a scratch vocal for the other day. Ian and I met on the set of "The Perfect Victim" in 2007. And I would not be able to do this CD without the help of my producer/arranger/co-writer Chris Durant, whom I met on the "The Show So Gay," (http://www.theshowsogay.com) in 2008. Chris has believed in me from the beginning and has been there by my side helping to ensure that my vision for my music comes true. Thanks so much Chris!! I appreciate everything you have done for me and cannot wait to work on these songs with you. I hope to at least have 10 songs on this CD, which I'm hoping will be released sometime in 2011. I am inspired by Amy Grant, whom I've been a fan of for as long as I can remember. I cannot wait to get her new CD, coming out on March 30th!!!!

DM: You've also done some modeling, and I notice that in addition to the more serious type of modeling, you've also done some really bizarre and artsy types of shots as well. Tell us about your modeling experiences, and also, who are some of your favorite photographers to work with.

LB: I have had over 25 professional photo shoots since 2008. I always hoped that the acting would segue into doing some modeling, and it eventually did. I love to do some outrageous photo shoots and try to always keep it fresh and interesting so you never see the same look twice. I prefer to do the bizarre, shocking, artsy pictures as compared to the mundane and boring. I'm also the only male model not afraid to put on lots of fun and outrageous make-up and to go out there and work it!! It's always nice to have some different looks as an actor and to have different pictures to help in the promotion of my work. Some of my favorite photographers to work with are H. Morgen, Joel Jameson, Nicole Kruex, Andy Elliott, Kurt Schumacher, Jason Schumacher, Holly Kuchera, Geoff Kuchera, Tom Frisch, Ben Zvan, David Dettmann, Martin Hoffsten, Eric James, Dave Nicol, and many others. I have enjoyed bringing different looks to life through modeling and am always looking for more fun shoots to do!!

DM: As busy as you are and with so much going on, how do you manage to juggle everything while still maintaining any semblance of sanity? Do you still manage to find time for a personal life, hobbies, etc. or is your career eating up most of your time right now?

LB: Do I come off as sane? That's not what my therapist says. LOL!! Just kidding. I don't have a therapist. Right now my career is taking up a lot of my time. But I enjoy it. I couldn't imagine not doing what I'm doing now. I wish that I had more time for a social life. Usually I hang out with friends in the entertainment business when I have social time, which is very rare. It's usually at premieres or wrap party's or script read throughs that we get together because we're all so busy. I still love to enjoy the summer when it's here in MN, which is short but I try to enjoy it as much as possible. I love to watch old horror movies and classic movies. I also enjoy writing, reading bios on old Hollywood starlets, and taking walks outside in the beautiful summer sun around the lake by where I live. I'm also single and still looking for Mr. Right, so if you're out there, show yourself!!!!! I'm waiting for you!!!!!

DM: Is there anything else going on with you that you'd like to mention before we wrap this up?

LB: I would like to say that I'm very thankful and grateful to all of the wonderful genuine true friends and family that I have in my life that have loved me unconditionally and supported me over the last several years while I am pursing my dream. I would not have been able to do any of this without the love, support, and encouragement that I have received from these amazing people. They were there whether I did an exceptional job or fell flat on my face, which has happened a few times. I also have two feature films that I'm in that just received distribution this year. One is "Terror Overload," in which I play Edward, the guy with a secret in the "Dinner Date" segment. NFTS Productions (http://www.nftsproductions.com) is behind "Terror Overload." The second is "Why Am I In A Box?" from Silent-But-Deadly Productions (http://sbdproductions.com). I have a small role as a police officer in this film. I'm excited that some of the films I'm in are starting to get noticed and get distribution. It's a good thing. I am always seeking out new film roles as well. If you would like to audition me or have me in your film, please get in touch with me via my contact page on my website at http://www.landynbanx.com/contact. You can also check out my demo reel at the following link: http://landynbanx.com/demo_reel. I have never been on a plane and I'm waiting to go on one when I book that first movie out of MN, which I hope will happen soon!!!!! The dream is coming true one day at a time and the best is yet to come so stay tuned!!!

LANDYNBANX.COM

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Interview with Scream King Landyn Banx (Part1)