Bilson grilled
The O.C. star discusses snack tables and more
DAVID LIPNOWSKI STAFF
On a warm September afternoon, while U1 students were frolicking in the beer gardens, I, David Lipnowski, was stuck in the office, doing hard, investigative reporting. On this particular afternoon, I was participating in a student press conference call to wrack Rachel Bilson’s brain on topics such as music in film, The O.C., and salads.
The interview was scheduled to promote the new Tony Goldwyn film, The Last Kiss, starring Scrubs funnyman Zach Braff and the O.C. starlet. The following interview consists of the most hard-hitting questions from Ohio State, University of British Columbia, Florida State, and of course, the University of Manitoba.
The studio describes the film as “a contemporary comedy-drama about life, love, infidelity, forgiveness, marriage, friendship . . . and coming to grips with turning 30.” It opens Sept. 15, in theatres near you (unless you live in Neepawa, then it’s not that close to you).
The Interview:
Ohio State: What kind of approach did you take with this character as opposed to the one on The O.C.?
RB: This character was a little more natural for me because she is a little older and the adult conversations and the situations she was in were a little more mature. To have a conversation with Zach Braff’s character was more realistic than some on The O.C., because [The O.C.] is very high school and dramatic. I went with it, and naturally played her [Kim] out, as I probably would have done myself, except with a few alterations. I would never pursue someone like that, or be that ambitious.
University of British Columbia: What attracted you to this role?
RB: Well originally . . . Zach Braff! I saw Garden State and I was such a fan. I found out Tony Goldwyn was directing it, and I read a script, and then I saw the original (L’ultimo Bacio) and thought it was such a beautiful piece. To be able to be a part of it would be such an honour and to work with these amazing actors and to recreate this beautiful film.
University of British Columbia: Music is a big part of this movie, as it is on The O.C.; what do you think music can bring to a movie?
RB: I think it’s really nice when a song can hand you a feeling. I really feel that Zach captured it in this movie, like he did in Garden State.
Florida State: Does the message of The Last Kiss have you examining your love life?
RB: Not me personally, but I think it will have that effect on certain people who are going through similar situations.
University of Manitoba: Now that you have worked in both television and film, which industry provides the best snack table?
RB: (Uncomfortably long laugh) Movies! Definitely!
University of Manitoba: Was there anything in particular that you enjoyed?
RB: I remember there was a salad that our craft services made. It was really good, and you don’t really get salads made for you on set in television.
University of Manitoba: What is your favorite genre of film and do you see yourself pursuing acting in this genre in the future?
RB: My favourite? . . . oh gosh . . . there’s so many. I’m such a fan of musicals (laugh). If I had the chance to do a movie version of a musical, that would be amazing. University of Manitoba: Thanks Rachel, we look forward to seeing you in some musicals.
