Jodi Chase: Actress, 7 LIVES OF CHANCE
1Q: Tell us how you became involved with 7 LIVES OF CHANCE, and how you prepared for your role.
I had worked with the director and writer, Banks Helfrich, on 3 other films and wanted to continue to be a part of his projects. When he offered me the lead role of Chance I was so excited for the challenge. It was an amazing part to take on.
2Q: Cinequest is proud to host the World Premiere of 7 LIVES OF CHANCE. Explain to the audience how you feel about bringing this film before audiences for the first time, and what do you think their reaction will be to your film?
We are so proud and honored to have been chosen to be in this fantastic festival! I’m anxious in a really good way to finally have this movie be seen on the big screen. I think people will react positively to this movie. They will absolutely feel like they have witnessed something different, fresh and innovative. Banks has an incredible imagination. I’ve always wanted to travel to places like India, Nepal and Russia. But I think the most interesting visit would be inside that guys mind.
3Q: What was your best and/or worst experience while making 7 LIVES OF CHANCE?
The entire experience was great. From meeting with Banks to discuss his expectations of this complex character that he created to sharing my feelings as well. The actual shoot was one week so most scenes are quite limited to one or two takes. I actually like working under that kind of pressure. It forces you to be ready and in the moment. I even had scenes with balloons. We got along well. Although, It kind of freaked me out when they would spontaneously pop.
If I have to say anything negative it would be the long shoot days in non air conditioned places. I felt bad for our make up man, Skeet. I’m a sweat machine.
4Q: Festival audiences often have to make hard decisions about what to see, and the catalog descriptions sometimes run together. In your own words, why should people see your film?
It’s the kind of movie that makes you think outside of the box. I hope people will put 7 Lives of Chance on their must see list because it’s simply different but also a movie that people can relate to. I would love for them to experience the journey that Chance went on. Plus, balloons are really cool and some hoarders aren’t that crazy.
5Q: I know you are also an improv performer and do live theatre. How does that job differ from being in a scripted film? If you could only do one or the other, for equal pay, which would you choose and why?
I love live theater and making people laugh. Creating something from nothing is a very cool feeling. To hear and feed off of an audience is a thrill. However, I would rather do scripted film. There is nothing like being on a set, getting ready for a scene. For me it all gets real when I’m in front of a camera. You can’t hide behind anything. It’s just all right there. Even my dang wrinkles. Banks let me improvise in this movie so I had the best of both worlds.
Popcorn and Vodka 
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