Andrew Mitchell
He played in Landon Kestlinger’s Dollar Baby The Reach as Bill.
SKSM: Could you start with telling me a little bit about yourself? Who are you and what do you do?
Andrew Mitchell: I am Andrew Mitchell and I play the character of Bill in The Reach. I am from Scotland and I am currently studying Digital Media and Information Studies at the University of Glasgow.
SKSM: When did you know you wanted to become an actor?
Andrew Mitchell: As far back as I remember I always wanted to try acting due to being a fan of film growing up, but I was a shy child growing up. When I went to university I became involved with the Glasgow University Student Television society (GUST) which give me opportunities to appear on screen, which helped me get comfortable in front of the camera.
SKSM: How did you become involved in The Reach Dollar Baby film?
Andrew Mitchell: I became involved with The Reach through my association with GUST. Landon Kestlinger pitched the idea during one of GUST’s meetings and I liked the idea. Afterwards I talked to Landon to ask if he needed any help with the project, which opened the door for my involvement.
SKSM: What do you think it is about the story that attracts people so much?
Andrew Mitchell: The themes involved in The Reach are relatable and there is a sense of romance involved with a loved one watching over you from the afterlife. Also, it’s a Stephen King adaptation and the man writing is incredible, always worth seeing his adaptations.
SKSM: Did you have to audition for the part or was it written directly for you?
Andrew Mitchell: Someone in the crew suggested to Landon about auditioning me the part of Bill, I originally came on board to help behind the scenes, however I agreed to read for the part and Landon then offered me the role.
SKSM: You worked with Landon Kestlinger on this film, how was that?
Andrew Mitchell: It was a great experience, Landon had a lot of great ideas and he made the cast and crew feel very welcomed during the production of the film.
SKSM: Was there any funny or special moment when they made the movie that you would like to tell me about?
Andrew Mitchell: When it came to the final day of shooting we went to Loch Lomond, Luss which was north of Glasgow and the location was beautiful. When I had arrived, Landon informed me that there was a slight change in the script and that I would have to sing. As much as I enjoy singing, I’m not very good at it and it took a few takes to get it right. That was a funny moment for me.
SKSM: Do you still have any contact with the crew/cast from that time? If so with who?
Andrew Mitchell: I’m still in contact with Iona MacRitchie and I have exchanged a few messages with Landon.
SKSM: What are you working on nowadays?
Andrew Mitchell: I am currently starring in a new project directed and written by David Campbell, which is a mockumentary about one man who wants to realise his dream of becoming a wrestler, and the hapless camera crew who follow his every move. In preparation for the role, I began my professional wrestling training at the Glasgow Pro Wrestling Asylum training school.
SKSM: Are you a fan of Stephen King’s work?
Andrew Mitchell: I’m a fan of his many works, such as It, Misery, The Shining and The Running Man. Also, The Shawshank Redemption which I am very fond of and I would argue has to be one of the best movies ever made.
SKSM: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Andrew Mitchell: I think due to being 6ft 2” people would assume I was good at sports like basketball, however I’m terrible at sports. Also, I think I surprise people with my cooking as I have been told I can cook a good steak.
SKSM: Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. Is there anything you want to say to the fans that read this interview?
Andrew Mitchell: Thank you for the interview, it has been great. I would like to say to anyone reading this who’s maybe a little worried about getting into films. First of all, try and get involved with anything film related, don’t worry about messing up because it’s a learning experience and although the process of coming up with ideas and making them happen can be difficult, it is so rewarding seeing it all come together.
SKSM: Do you like to add anything else?
Andrew Mitchell: Follow me on Instagram at andy__mitchell. I hope you enjoyed The Reach and thanks again.
