Firstly we have to ask, where do you prefer to shop, LA or London?
Haha – I like both! When I’m in London I always check out Portobello for interesting vintage, there is also a great shop there called Tonic. They sell menswear labels like Holland Esquire and Oliver Spencer, they also have a great selection of denim, I buy all my jeans there. In LA, I usually head down to Melrose, it has everything from Urban Outfitters to Marc Jacobs.
Now we have that out the way tell us about your new movie The Hunting of The Snark.
It’s based on a British classic written in 1874 by Lewis Carroll and directed by Michael McNeff who has the most extraordinary visual style. It’s about a group of adventures who set off on a voyage across the ocean. They are in search of an island that is said to be the home of a mysterious creature called The Snark. The story is told from the point of view of my character, The Baker. He is a fascinatingly complex individual, which is what ultimately attracted me to the role. He prides himself on his bravery, but it lets him down at times and he becomes utterly disgusted with himself. There is also a rather naïve quality to him that gets the poor chap into a lot of hot water, he doesn’t always understand the magnitude of the situations he is getting himself into until it’s too late…
Does your character have any similar characteristics to yourself?
Well, I certainly share his enthusiasm to get out and see the world, but other than that, no not really, we are very different!
What characters do you normally like to play?
I like to play characters that surprise you, that have hidden layers which only become apparent as the story progresses. And of course, variety is really important. I would hate to get stuck doing the same type of role over and over. Working on Snark was amazing; I have never played a character like him before.
Tell me about Sir Christopher Lee’s involvement in the movie.
Part of the story is told by a narrator, that’s where Sir Christopher Lee comes in.
It’s such a huge honor to be starring in a movie that he’s involved with. He is one of the absolute finest actors ever, a true icon. His voice gives the story an amazing gravitas.
A little birdie told us you started off with a Fashion Design interest and even attended the prestigious Central St Martins College in London, do you still follow the latest trends and looks?
I do like to keep a keen eye on what’s going on, definitely. I enjoy clothes and like to keep my wardrobe updated but I’m more interested in finding things that suit me than I am in following the latest trends.
Who is your favorite designer?
I’m a huge fan of Tom Ford, his tailoring is fantastic.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I don’t get much – so when I do, I usually opt for something relaxing like reading book. A friend gave me a copy of David Sedaris’ When You Are Engulfed In Flames, which I’m half way through at the moment. It’s a very funny read; I highly recommend it. I also love going for dinner with friends. When I’m in LA we usually go to Chateau Marmont or Luques, the food there is amazing; I’m getting hungry just thinking about it!
Tell us something your fans might not already know about you.
I’ve been talked into trying yoga. I just bought my mat this morning and I have my first session tonight. I can’t even touch my toes, so I’m a bit nervous!
What impresses you about people?
I’m impressed by people who have great ideas and work hard to make them a reality. Also, good manners – it costs nothing to be nice to people.
Being a fellow Brit here in LA I miss cups of tea and soft mints more than anything, is there anything you miss about England when you are here in the US?
Yes, afternoon tea and scones at The Wolseley on Picadilly!
What is your favorite thing about LA?
The people and the weather. Everyone has a smile on their face and the sun is always shining - well usually at least!
Now before you go tell us what is your Starbucks drink?
Decaf iced Americano.
