Jennifer Gegan, actress: DESIRE IN NEW YORK

Jennifer Gegan plays “Karen” in DESIRE IN NEW YORK

1Q: Tell us how you became involved with Desire in New York, and how you prepared for your role.

The funny thing is that I almost wasn’t involved with Desire in New York. I saw the casting call but didn’t submit right away because I was involved in a couple of other projects and wasn’t sure I had the time that was needed to commit. I also was a little concerned with the extreme edgy material as described in the film. However, curiosity got the best of me, and the character and story were so intriguing, I went ahead and submitted my headshot and resume. I met with director Ed Ziari and his co-producer Luke Carron in their office building for the first audition. Ed really took the time to explain the type of film he wanted to shoot and what he was looking for in the part of Karen. His enthusiasm was so contagious, and he was so direct in what he wanted that any concerns I had, disappeared in that meeting.

To help me with the part, Ed had me do some specific film research before the call back. That helped me a lot as to how he wanted Karen to be perceived. I also did some research of my own and had some character development meetings with Ed before shooting. Before some of the more dramatic scenes, I also listened to specialized music that would help me with the deep emotions that Karen was going through. Although my personal life experiences don’t directly parallel with Karen’s, I was still able to draw from my past, some feelings, emotions and empathetic compassion for the character that would give some authenticity to her struggle of the crisis she was going through in the film.

2Q: Cinequest Film Festival is hosting the World Premiere of Desire in New York. Explain to us how it feels to bring this film before audiences for the first time, and what do you think their reaction will be to your film?

To have Desire in New York premiere at such a prestigious film festival like Cinequest, it is very exciting. It’s great to be appreciated when everyone has worked so hard to make this project such a success. The audiences will be captivated not only by the story, but the cinematography and music are so beautiful, you forget you are watching a low budget feature film. I think the movie will stir up much controversy and people will walk away talking about it and thinking about it for awhile.

3Q: What was your best and/or worst experience while making Desire in New York?

The best experience was working with such a talented cast and crew, especially the director who knew what he wanted. Ed was very precise about every scene, every shot, and what he wanted from the actors. He had a direct vision of what his movie was going to be and that confidence and talent really shows in the final product. Ed also was extremely professional, as was the crew, and created a very safe environment, especially when filming the more intimate scenes. His confidence allowed me to relax and bring everything I could to the work, the character and the film.

The worst experience ironically produced some of the most beautiful cinematography in the movie. Because of other actors time constraints of shooting in New York, we were forced to shoot most of the exterior shots on the coldest days of last year. There were irritations, but I can safely say that those frustrations disappeared when I saw on screen the amazing cinematic shots that were produced on those teeth chattering days.

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?

Desire in New York tackles a very controversial and taboo subject. It depicts the lengths some women will go through to combat alienation to find companionship,sexual satisfaction and happiness in their lives. This movie does not play it safe and it drives to the heart and soul of loneliness and depression with directness, honesty and has emotionally raw appeal. It’s an empathetic portrayal into the depths of human craving and obsession. Gritty yet beautifully written, filmed and directed.

5Q: Time to pre-plan: You just won the Oscar for Desire in New York. Give us your acceptance speech.

I want to thank Ed for writing such a complicated, interesting and controversial role that any actress would dream of playing in her career. Also huge thanks to all the cast and crew, whose unique talents all contributed to a beautiful film. Finally, my gratitude to my family and friends, specifically my Aunt Margaret and wonderful friend, Martha Hanson. Their support at the earliest stages helped to keep my eye on the prize and stay dedicated to this wonderful journey.

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