Eric James Morris
He played in Stephen Dean‘s Rest Stop as Rick Hardin.
SKSM: Could you start with telling me a little bit about yourself? Who are you and what do you do?
Eric James Morris: My name is Eric James Morris. I currently live in my home town Atlanta GA with my wife of 21 years Crystal. We have two sons, and a great dog named Tucker that is a retired Racing greyhound. I am a Jeep Wrangler enthusiast, and former motorcycle enthusiast. I used to do motorcycle trackdays often on my motorcycles over the years. I currently own a Triumph Daytona 675, and had a minor crash at Barber motorsports park last fall and decided it was time to hang it up. I am also a musician, and play guitar/sing often. I used to play out live every weekend, but not so much anymore. I do festivals and fairs occasionally these days as most of my time is spent on camera filming instead these days. I also own and opérate our family business Morris Environmental Inc when I am not acting or busy within the entertainment industry.
SKSM: When did you know you wanted to become an actor?
Eric James Morris: As a child I had a dream of becoming a famous actor like many other children do, but I didn’t realize it was even a possibilty until I met an independent director while doing background as a bar patrón a few years ago who told me I should pursue acting as I had a good look on camera. Also the Atlanta film market was really taking a positive direction at the time, so I took his advice and started training, making contacts, getting representation, etc.
SKSM: How did you become involved in Rest Stop Dollar Baby film?
Eric James Morris: Dean Film Works had put out a casting call breakdown on Actors Access, which I submitted to and was selected for the role of Rick Hardin. They felt that I fit the carácter best and wanted me to accept the role. I was delighted and flattered that I had been selected for this. I was very excited to begin filiming this Project, as I have always loved all of Stephen King’s work over the years.
SKSM: What do you think it is about the story that attracts people so much?
Eric James Morris: I think the original story of “Rest Stop” attracts viewers/readers as it shows what a darker side some people can have within them when pushed to the limit. And how someone can créate an additional “profile” of themselves to be able to step outside of their comfortable box to do some things they themselves wouldnt normally do. In addition, Rick Hardin is a bit of a hero, as his heroic yet harsh actions brought a valuable lesson to the victims.
SKSM: Did you have to audition for the part or was it written directly for you?
Eric James Morris: I did have to audition, and was asked to submit a video audition for the role. I normally film my auditions at home, from my home setup with proper lighting and sound. Which I did film this audition at home.
SKSM: You worked with Stephen Dean on this film, how was that?
Eric James Morris: Working with Stephen Dean was a true pleasure. I would have to say he is the most pleasant director I have worked with, and cares about al lof his talent and crew. I feel Stephen Will continue on to do very great things within the entertainment industry in the very near future.
SKSM: Was there any funny or special moment when they made the movie that you would like to tell me about?
Eric James Morris: Their was a few, but I Will mention that the actual scene of Rick beating the vitim was shot outdoors, at 4am, in the freezing cold, with wind blowing as well. There was a large portion of dialog (approximately 4-5 pages) for my carácter that we all over looked, and I didnt receive the script until the day of shooting. Needless to say, I had to request a line more than once while filming! Thank goodness for editing.
SKSM: Do you still have any contact with the crew/cast from that time? If so with who?
Eric James Morris: I still keep in contact with Stephen Dean the director.
SKSM: What are you working on nowadays?
Eric James Morris: I have worked on several differnet independent projects which include a comedy relief carácter for a pilot on Sony Playstation Network. I have also done some crime reenactment televisión shows this year which include Disappeared 910 on NBC Peakock productions, Fatal Attraction 717 on TV One, Murder Calls 210 on ID Discovery, and Homicide Hunter 801 on ID Discovery.
SKSM: Are you a fan of Stephen King’s work?
Eric James Morris: Yes I am. All of his work is great and I enjoy catching any of his written films when I can.
SKSM: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Eric James Morris: I am normally a very quiet and reserved guy.
SKSM: Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. Is there anything you want to say to the fans that read this interview?
Eric James Morris: I say thank you for your support! It really means a lot to me knowing that.
SKSM: Do you like to add anything else?
I hope to re-visit with you again on another Stephen King film Project in the future.
Thank you
