Several weeks ago, "Red State" director Kevin Smith suggested on Twitter that journalists track down film star Michael Parks to get the low-down on the film from the man himself.
I took Smith up on the challenge and wound up having an extended conversation with Parks.
Here, he talks about the controversial character he plays in "Red State," working with Smith and his first starring role after decades of supporting parts.
When was the first time that you met Kevin Smith?
The first time I met Kevin Smith was at his house. I think it was a couple of months before we started the picture because he was still getting financing. I got a call and a letter from a producer named Jon Gordon, saying "we'd like you to do this part. That's all we can say for now." He said, "I'd like to have a meeting," so I had a meeting with them and we were in the same school [of thought], so we did the movie.
How did Kevin explain the role when he was first describing the project to you. Did he mention Fred Phelps specifically, or anything like that?
He sent me a script. I said 'send me a script' and he did, so I said "OK, I'll take a meeting." The first thing I said, and he agreed with -- I think he's probably just leaving it alone because it'll attract attention -- but the first thing I said is, "this is not Fred Phelps." And if it was Fred Phelps perfectly, then I don't think I want to do him because he bores me to tears, the person himself. If I did him, I'd certainly be capable, but i think it would just bore the hell out of the audience. He's boring. That's all I can say. So why do him? And I saw an opportunity to do more of a charismatic [character]. There have been many rumors though.
The project is shrouded in secrecy, so not too many people know what we're in store for.
It's good that way, don't you think, Jeff? I think that's good, that people don't know. Don't you?
I think that too many movies get spoiled these days with every single little detail on the Internet, so it'll be nice to go into a movie cold and just let Kevin tell a story.
Yeah, I think that's absolutely it. I was just one of many puppets but I enjoyed every day with him.
What was his style? What's Kevin's process like?
I never saw a style. I hardly ever saw him for the most part. I stayed out of his way and he stayed out of mine. I mean, you've got to get out of the way when they're moving equipment. So I'd go my way and he'd go his and everything was fine.
