Enjoy The Cheekiness: Jake Watkins On "Redlight"
Jake Watkins is an English actor, originally from South East London, known for playing Ben in The Silent Place (2020). Recently, Jake starred in the short film Redlight, the second narrative short in the Amazon Exclusive anthology A Series of Light. We had the pleasure of chatting with Jake about the role, life on set, and much much more!
A Series of Light is an anthology series that explores the darkest sides of humanity, through technology, connection, intimacy and heartbreak. Redlight follows seventeen-year-old escort Callum, who books an afternoon meet-up with business-man Jimmy. When things don't go according to plan, Callum is left with more than he bargained for.
How did you hear about Oxygen Films and get involved in this project?
I was first approached by Gage who asked if I was interested in collaborating, to which I quickly responded yes. We then met up in London and had a really exciting conversation about a lot of cool ideas!
What resonated with you most about the script?
The thing that resonated with me most with the script was firstly the character himself, it’s not really a character I have ever had the chance to play before, and I found that very exciting! I also enjoyed the cheekiness from Callum in the beginning, and how it ends up taking an unexpected turn.
How did you prepare for the role and develop your character?
So firstly, I decided to do some research into male escorting, as I didn’t want to just guess about it. So I watched a few documentaries so I could understand more about the variety of reasons people choose that path. I then looked more into the text to see what information about the character it reveals. Once I had done that, I started to write down Callum’s back story, as I think it’s important to know where your character is coming from.
Are there any fun or humorous tales from the set that you can tell us?
At the end of the shoot, I was so tired after making my body tense and shaking all day, that I binged a ton of sugary foods and ended up being a bit delirious and could not stop laughing at the tiniest things with Eleanor, the head or programs for Oxygen Films! It was very funny, a massive sugar rush!
What drew you to the performative arts? How did you fall in love with acting?
I’ve loved performing ever since I can remember. I was always putting on shows for my family and all sorts. My nan, grandad, and dad all did amateur dramatics and would bring me along and get me involved, and that’s when I fell in love with it.
What are some tips you give those aspiring actors out there for how they can hone their craft?
I would say that you have to remember that you never stop learning, ever! You can learn so much from watching other actors or even watching good actors on TV. Also always be open to criticism, always be looking to improve. Also don’t give up!!!
Do you have any upcoming projects you can share with us?
So I have a few things lined up in September, an exciting short film and also a feature film, I can’t wait to get started on them both!
Wanna learn more about A Series of Light?! Check out the links below!
A Series of Light review
Gage Oxley On His Anthology A Series Of Light
Jack Parr on “Greenlight”
Rochelle Naylor On "Whitelight"
James Coutsavlis On "Starlight"
Charlie Harris on "Blacklight"
Bruce Herbelin-Earle On "Limelight"
What do you think? We want to know. Share your thoughts and feelings in the comments section below, and as always, remember to viddy well!