Be Kind, Be Happy: Rochelle Naylor On "Whitelight"
Rochelle Naylor is an actress, known for Skating By (2019). Recently, she starred in the short film Whitelight, the third narrative shorts in the Amazon Exclusive anthology A Series of Light. We had the pleasure of chatting with her about the role, life on set, and much much more!
A Series of Light is an anthology series which explores the darkest sides of humanity, through technology, connection, intimacy and heartbreak. Whitelight follows nineteen-year-old student Arron, as he finds himself falling for the straight Adonis, Mitchell. When it becomes clear Mitchell isn't interested, Arron decides to use a new technology to get what he wants.
How did you hear about Oxygen Films and get involved in this project?
I heard about Oxygen Films when I first started working with them on A Series of Light and I found them through a casting on Mandy!
What resonated with you most about the script?
I loved the whole script, but what I loved most was just realizing that what Arron did was wrong but also innocent, he was afraid to be himself, his only intent was to have a connection with someone.
How did you prepare for the role and develop your character?
Preparing to play Aubrey was fun for me! She's a confident, outgoing girl just like myself! I loved reading through the script and getting a vibe for Aubrey. Creating a backstory to give her more depth was helpful in bringing Aubrey to life. I also found places that helped to bring myself into the character, and I really think it worked, so adding pieces of my own personality made playing Aubrey a lot easier and more fun!
Are there any fun or humorous tales from the set that you can tell us?
Filming feels like so long ago and there aren't specific moments I could pick out, but I always remember how much more comfortable myself and Ole [Madden] (the lead actor) were around each other, compared to the first day we met. It got to point were he would jokingly mock me, I can take it so it always made me laugh. I also remember one night talking about ghosts and the paranormal with Gage Oxley (the director), Ole, and Sian [Carry] (the producer) and being too scared to go to sleep, which was fun.
What drew you to the performative arts? How did you fall in love with acting?
I've always enjoyed singing and dancing and putting on shows for people. When I was really little, my auntie brought her new boyfriend to meet everyone for the first time, and I made him watch me sing and perform to Britney Spears. I did gymnastics for 14 years since I was three. I've also done dance. I did drama in school and also college, but it took me until I was around 19, I think, to realize that is was just straight acting that I wanted to do. I love the creativity and endless strands and possibilities of the Arts. I do not love the uncertainty! But I do love how watching my favorite movie or TV series makes me feel and that's how I want to make people feel.
What are some tips you give those aspiring actors out there for how they can hone their craft?
To all the aspiring actors... I'll be real, don't do it if you aren't committed, determined, strong-minded, strong-willed, and prepared for heartbreak. That might not be what you want to hear but that's the reality of it. It's hard. Really hard. Keep grinding. Invest in your craft. Get training/coaching and read books. Practice, practice, practice! Don't stop learning and pushing yourself, and be as involved as you can with projects! NETWORK. Be kind, be happy (I promise that will benefit you) and lastly, do not give up.
Do you have any upcoming projects you can share with us?
I WISH I could tell you what is possibly in the pipeline for me! Wow, I really do. The project I hope to be involved with is still early days but all I can say is watch this space... And whilst you're at it, give Whitelight a watch!
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”
Jake Watkins On "Redlight"
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!