Theatre student leading man in feature film
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre student Sebastian Hunter makes his debut professional acting role in the film Poppy, whichis screening now in cinemas.
“It’s about time for a film like this to be made, which pushes society’s perception of disability. The film challenges people’s perspective on things and opens minds to see beyond the box that often people with disability are put into,” says Sebastian.
Sebastian took a break from his degree while he filmed the movie and has now returned to his third-year classes. Though only an undergraduate student, Sebastian felt that much of what he had learned and the confidence he gained through his Theatre studies helped him embrace this role. “Studying Theatre has given me a solid foundation in performance and the things I have learned have been used and effective in this film work.”
He utilised many of the theatrical exercises and techniques from his Theatre classes on set. “Things like improvisation, mirroring, and teamwork exercises helped me to be confident in taking the initiative and trying different ways of approaching a scene or dialogue. I found that with acting, there’s a million ways you can say a line, and it’s your job as the actor to choose and perform the line and adapt to the director’s instruction.”.
The film has given Sebastian a foot in the door to an acting career, and combined his love of music and acting—he plays six different instruments and writes his own music, something which helped him gain the role of the music-loving Luke in the film. “When my agent told me about the role it seemed perfect for me: 'Under 6 foot and can play guitar and sing.’” Sebastian’s original music was recorded and used in the film soundtrack.
This experience has also grown Sebastian’s confidence and performance skills. “I’m more confident on stage. It’s nice and refreshing to come back to university after filming. I’ve grown a bit more, matured with experience and professionalism, and it’s cemented my love for acting and my confidence in my abilities and future career.”
"It has been wonderful seeing Sebastian's debut on screen—as it is with any Theatre programme students and alumni—but especially seeing him play a lead role in such an enriching and thoroughly local film,” says Dr Nicola Hyland, the director of the University’s Theatre programme. “We are also privileged to have been able to share in Sebastian’s moment as he completes his third-year courses, to see how much aroha he has for the project and how much he has gained from this experience."
Sebastian’s fellow cast and crew was key to this growth in confidence. “Ari Boyland, who plays Dave was awesome to work with and helpful with tips and pointers. It was also Libby’s, who plays Poppy, first film too so there was that camaraderie that turned into a great friendship as we learned together. At first there was a bit of imposter syndrome, but the director, Linda (Niccol) was awesome at making me feel comfortable and confident.”
“I’ve seen the industry side, I’ve lived it. I can do it. It was a once in a lifetime experience and I’m excited to see where I can go next,” he says.
Find where the film is showing near you: https://www.flicks.co.nz/movie/poppy-2021/