Welcome to another edition of SIX OF THE BEST, the semi regular part of BRWC where we fire six questions at lovely people. This time, we chat to the lovely Isabella Blake Thomas.
Isabella Blake Thomas has worked with everyone: Jon Voight, Gillian Anderson, Rosamund Pike, Rowan Atkinson, Kelly Lynch and Cameron Bright and many other movie stars. She released an album with five original songs, right now she is promoting her single Stronger. Isabella also writes, produces and acts in her films. She even flies a Cessna 172 because she loves flying and also for a role about the young Amelia Earhart.
How was working in TV for you? Especially renowned shows like Doctor Who and Once Upon A Time?
Being on set has always been so much fun for me, being in a TV show where you’re essentially bonding with a new family is a wonderful experience. Once Upon A Time was my favourite show before I was on it so getting to be such a fun part as Young Zelena really was a dream come true. Dr Who has meant that real fans get excited to know me. So I’ve built a following with all the shows I’ve been part of. They are excited to see what I would be in next. To have a fun support network is fun.
Working on Johnny English Reborn with Rowan Atkinson and Rosamund Pike must have been quite an experience. What did you learn from them, and what did they learn from you?
Meeting Rowan Atkinson was an incredible moment because 9 year old me was like, “It’s Mr. Bean!” I learn so much on each set which is the great thing about acting. I remember learning all about stunts on Johnny English Reborn. It was the first movie that had full on stunts in it so being able to to watch how an action movie came to life was something I’ll never forget. I remember getting huge hugs from them all and laughing because Rowan actually did his own stunt. Also it’s fun to work with actors like Daniel Kaluuya before anyone knew him and then to meet him again a few years later at an event and for him to remember me is always a special feeling.
And now you’re moving into music. Has that been an easy transition?
I’ve always loved singing so making that leap into the music industry in that sense wasn’t too difficult. What’s interesting is how different the film and music industries are. My EP “Stronger” was released on February 14th 2019 and has been really well received. I’ve been learning so much over the past few years about music that I have even more admiration for well known artists that have their music on the radio because I now know how much work goes into that. I’m currently working in remixing one of my songs to be an Ibiza No.1 hit with an incredible producer. So I’m very excited for the future.
Growing up as a child movie star, how has that been for you so far?
I’m very fortunate that I’ve had incredible experiences all my life on set. From a very young age, I’ve loved what I do. How cool is it that I get to do what I love for a living! My mom has also been with me every step of the way. So I’ve had her support and presence everywhere I’ve gone. I know she is there if I was to need her. I’ve also been homeschooled because of my acting. This has meant I’ve completed High School early and now I get to audition and work in front of and behind the camera whenever I can. I literally four years ahead of my peers and so it’s fun being able to try everything without the pressure of living costs. It’s been a very different t way of life. My classroom was a train or set in Bulgaria or even a beautiful hotel in LA. I’ve also made friends of all ages. By not being at school has meant I’ve had a very colourful life.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
It sounds cheesy but be yourself. As you get higher up in the industry, people are able to tell whether or not you are genuine. Also, in the audition room, being yourself can be the fact of you booking a part and not. It’s all about bringing your life experiences to a character so if you can, why not? Also I think if you can try as many different roles as possible behind the camera then it makes you a better actor. Try and get as much set experience as you can.
Anything else you want to get off your chest?!
I get to be in front of and behind the camera working with my Mum for our production company Mother & Daughter Entertainment. I think it’s such a crucial time for women in this industry. I want to be able to be a generation that shows what’s possible and inspire others to reach for their goals. I want to be someone that sends the elevator back down for the next generation.
We hope you're enjoying BRWC. You should check us out on our social channels, subscribe to our newsletter, and tell your friends. BRWC is short for battleroyalewithcheese.
NO COMMENTS
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.