Vivek is an actor working out of Toronto, Canada. He recently completed work in a supporting role in his first independent feature film that will be released in 2019 and is in talks to co-produce and be the co-lead in 2 feature films shooting summer of 2018 and 2019.
We met up with Vivek recently to discuss acting and his career.
As a child, did you want to be an actor, or did it fall into place through other activities?
Growing up I had always dreamed of being an actor – so much so I spent more time day dreaming of winning an Oscar than I did listening to my Professor’s in University. Having said that, I never had the guts to chase my dream at that point and instead opted for the safe route in the world of business. Oddly enough, the idea of acting came back through a business I co-founded, as one of my business partners is a successful SAG actor. One thing led to another and here I am chasing my childhood dream many years later!
Who inspired you to follow your dream to pursue acting?
My parents are definitely an inspiration from the point of view they have shown me that amazing things can happen with the right attitude and by never giving up. Also, my business partner is a huge inspiration as he’s done it and been successful at it. He’s been a huge help in teaching me the ropes and instilling the need to keep on working to learn and improve on the craft.
What challenges have you faced in the entertainment industry? What has been your most rewarding experience?
The biggest challenge has been the roller coaster ride it can be from one day to the other. In one instance, you can land a gig or get great feedback to the complete opposite at your next audition.
The most rewarding experience to date has been being cast as a co-lead in my first independent feature film. It was the first role I’ve had where I could take one character through a wide range of emotions as the script progressed. It also gave me the opportunity to work with some really talented people to improve on the craft and give me more confidence to take on more challenging material
What is your favourite type of character to play?
I love playing roles in the which you go through a wide range of emotions – from emotional disasters to feeling like they’re on top of the world as their character develops during the story. Its liberating of sorts to go back to different times in your personal journey and bring them to life on film.
What market do you currently work in? Are there other areas you would like to work?
I’ve been mainly working in Toronto of late, but have had a couple of roles in LA and am finalizing the details to shoot a feature film in the Netherlands over the summer. As far as other areas, I just want to be on a set, doesn’t matter where its located. If there’s a gig for me, I will find a way to be there.
What advice would you give to someone new trying to make it in the acting industry?
My biggest advice is probably to not let the fear of failure stop you from doing something you are passionate about. Enjoy the process of auditioning and receiving feedback – learn from everything you hear – the good and more importantly the bad. There is no guarantees that you will make it, but finding out if you can will be the best adventure you will ever have!
Why, What fuels your passion?
My kids fuel my passion . I always tell them if you can dream it, its possible and I want my actions to speak louder than words when its comes to teaching them this lesson. Plus, they get a sparkle in their eyes when they tell their friends and teachers that I’m on tv or in a movie. Its pretty hard not to be motivated when your kids seem to think you’re cool because of what you do!
What is something about you that most people would never guess?
I’m a single father to the 2 most beautiful baby girls in the world, and that’s my unbiased opinion!
If you were to do it all over again, would you do things exactly the same? Do you have any regrets? Successes that make you proud?
There are times when I think it would have been better to have given acting a shot when I was younger. But I can’t really consider that a regret as the life experience I’ve had with the path I chose is what makes me who I am today – and because of those experiences, I am the actor I am today.
As far as success I’m proud of, I think I’m more just really enjoying the process of chasing this dream, with the end game not really being something I’m thinking of. I’m learning every day and meeting some really interesting people along the way, all the while being excited about what I’m doing. So from that point of view I think this has already been a success
To follow Vivek, check out his profiles below:
IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm9512866/?ref_=nv_sr_1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivek_jain1/
