Big Weird Swings with Skyler Gisondo & Austin Abrams
Summary
Austin Abrams and Skylar Gisondo discuss their history as childhood audition rivals and their early paths into acting. They reflect on formative experiences, including Abrams’ intense collaboration with Rob Pattinson on *Primer* and his work with director Greg Kutter on *Resident Evil*. The conversation also covers Abrams’ roles in *Weapons* and *Whale Fall*, where he highlights the challenges of practical effects and working with puppeteers.
Topics discussed
Introduction and the surprise reunion
Childhood auditions and early competition
Busking in Santa Monica and early passion
High school experience and leaving Florida
First major role and rival actors
Moving to LA and early career sustainability
Influences and the mystery of film sets
Discussion on shape-shifting actors
Working with Robert Pattinson on Prime Time
Acting process and working with director Gregor
Secret screening of Resident Evil
Origin of the Resident Evil role
Casting for Prime Time and character challenges
Voice work and collaboration with Rob
Collaborative process with director Lance
Tone of Resident Evil and dark humor
Character analysis in Weapons
Practical effects and the whale in Weapons
Challenges of solo performance in Weapons
Upcoming project: The Goblin
Formative experiences with early directors
Working with Ben Stiller on Night at the Museum
Reunion with Ben Stiller and on-set dynamics
Working with Robert De Niro
Navigating celebrity interactions and vulnerability
Personal approach to connecting with idols
Future goals and acting philosophy
Balancing big swings and everyman roles
Closing remarks and mutual support
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