Kevin Schmidt

The last time we talked, you had only started talking about writing and directing. And now, I’m interviewing you as a director. How does it feel to be behind the camera instead of in front of it?
Empowering. As an actor you’re usually the last part of the movie making equation. The script is written, locations scouted, crew hired and craft service consumed, haha. Actors are the last part of the process (unless you’re attached to sell the script that is). I’ve always cared so much about my on-camera work, it only made sense to get involved in all aspects of the production. Directing has always been a dream of mine, feels good to add the title to the ole’ resume.

Can you tell us a bit about The Alyson Stoner Project?
The “Project” was an idea further developed by Alyson and I after being frustrated with the business around us. It’s a dance instructional hybrid. We’re transcending many genres: health, dance, self-expression and most of all ... fun! Like everything in life, the talented don’t always go the furthest. A lot of times it’s who you know and the right timing. After Alyson and I missing that “time” a few too many times, we were ready to do something on our own.

What started off the idea of The Alyson Stoner Project?
After losing close to fifty pounds, and Alyson always being an advocate of a healthy lifestyle, we were developing an internet website for kids focusing on healthier living. Naturally we called it, “Campaign for a Healthier Youth.” We wanted to EXPLODE on the scene instantly on a National level. After a few promises for help, they fell through. The idea went dry for a year while Alyson and I continued to pursue our acting careers. Come January I wrote a pitch for the “Project”. After clearing our schedules, Alyson, Luanne – her mom, my dad and I made it happen – with the help of some talented friends of course.

Do you feel like a very new director, occasionally lost, or has it come naturally to you on set?
I felt amazing on set! I’ve dreamed of directing since I started acting a decade ago, so being able to call “Action!” on my own set was... fulfilling to say the least. It felt like a part of me all along.

What was the filming of ASP [the Alyson Stoner Project] like?
It was done like a professional music video shoot. Top of the line cameras, solid lighting kit, amazing crew, and of course, the most talented young dancers in California - maybe the world.

Are you currently in the editing part?
Yes. We wrapped principal photography on February 18th. The editing process is tedious to say the least, but incredibly rewarding. Being able to sit back and watch something evolve in front of your eyes is an amazing feeling.

Approximately when will it be released?
We’re shooting for a worldwide release summer of ’08 on DVD. TV will follow shortly after.

What has inspired you with this hybrid?
The dream. Being able to take an IDEA and turn it into a lucrative project is what it’s all about. By creating a concept, you have the ability to employ a small army of talented individuals on a set.

Apart from ASP, what else have you been working on?
I’ve been writing full-time, working on my own television shows and movies. The acting is still there too! I’m heading out on the 18th of March to Puerto Rico for a month to shoot a Disney Channel Original Movie called, “Princess Protection Program.” I play Bull, a jock who’s a little more muscle then brain.

Are you going to be concentrating solely on directing/writing now?
The goal is to incorporate everything into one. Be able to write, direct, and star in my own projects, much like my friend and mentor, Bonnie Hunt.

Since you have officially experienced directing as well as acting, would you say it’s easier or harder?
They each have their own set of difficulties. A director is managing chaos the entire time to protect his vision on screen. An actor spends his time blocking out reality to stay in character. Each has their challenges, but that’s what I love about what I do.

Now that you know what a director feels like, has it changed your views or the way you act/think in front of the camera?
Absolutely. Having to watch yourself over and over again is a crash course in humility. I’ve accepted the fact life is a learning experience. If I made one decision over another and don’t like it later, that’s the nature of the beast. That’s what next time is for!

Describe your ideal film/TV show to direct and who would star in it.
I have a teen comedy I’m writing about life hustling in California that would be a trip to shoot. Or my television show. It surrounds a teenage orphan struggling to balance the good and bad influences around him.

What are your goals for the rest of 2008?
Shoot “The Alyson Stoner Project” Volumes 2&3 as well as writing, staring, and directing one of my own scripts.

Do you have an official myspace or an area where fans can contact you?
I have an official Myspace and Facebook fans can reach me at anytime. I also post periodic updates on my IMDB message board to keep whoever likes clued in on my life.