John Boyega has two things in common with his Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ co-star Daisy Ridley, both are just 23 years old and British but unlike newcomer Ridley, has a movie under his belt, cult favorite “Attack The Block.” But that is nothing to starring in one of the most successful movie franchises of all time.
You would think that the about to be newly minted Star Wars hero would be a jumble of nerves on a press junket filled with a gazillion interviews across a gazillion media outlets but you would be so wrong.
So how does a 23 year old actor on the verge of worldwide recognition arrive at a press interview, bouncing enthusiastically with a smile on his face, wearing a rucksack (backpack to us Americans) “for no reason” and carrying very little in it, he later admitted.
Finding Out About Getting the Part
John auditioned for 7 months and found out in a cafe directly from J.J. Abrams and Larry Kasdan (the screenwriter.)
Stunt Doubles During the Big Explosion Scene?
Jokingly admitting, “That was me, that was all me. I was fantastic.” Explaining that he did not expect the explosions to be so big. He just remembers them coming to him and explaining the scene, do the dialogue, have fun and just run. Then it’s camera, action and he’s running, looking at his co-star Daisy Ridley (Rey) and see’s that everyone is backing up. He told us that if you watch the scene which is featured below, “I am actually freaking out. I am too young to die like this. But it was definitely fun-those scenes.”
On Being Recognized
“I think that because I still move through public places, sometimes people recognize me but they do this.” He role played, “Naw, all right, that ain’t him.” But for now it’s gradual. He did mention that his Father who was excited when he was told that his son was going to be in Star Wars but had no idea what Star Wars was actually going on the Asian Press Tour with him. His father who has been seeing his son’s picture all over England is starting to realize how big it (Star Wars) is.
What was the most inspiring thing about your character?
“What is so inspiring about Finn is how complex he is. He’s a Stormtrooper who has never really experienced individuality. We have never, ever had a Stormtrooper take off his helmet for us to see who he really is.”
What makes Star Wars movies and the story so timeless in your opinion?
“I just think it’s the continuous dialog between fans.The fans have the ability to make a whole press conference on probably two minutes of footage like who shot first. That was few seconds. There’s a whole debate about that and that keeps fans engaged. There’s only been six films but if you look at the fandom, it seems as though there’s been twenty.”
On that note, here is the Star Wars trailer that has launched a gazillion articles on what is happening, what could be happening and what might be happening.
All I can say is that Mr. John Boyega was a delightful interview, all boyish charm with a great sense of humor. I am so excited for such a nice down to earth, the son of a preacher to be on the verge of being one of the most recognized people on the planet.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens Global Press Event Coverage
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Disclosure: NYC Single Mom’s travel and accommodations to attend the Star Wars: The Force Awakens and ABC TV Event were covered by Disney. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.
