Today I am presenting an interview with a well known actress who happens to be someone I have interviewed in the past. She is as talented as she is beautiful and I always enjoy talking to her. Her name is Tristan Risk and she has a lot to say, so let’s begin shall we.
DERF: It has been a while since we last talked. What have you been up to?
RISK: Most recently, I just completed filming for a short film. This will be my first film as a writer/director. I have my fantastic team to thank for making this happen with Topher Graham and Jordan Barnes-Crouse for leading the way and making it happen as AD and DOP, respectively. They were wonderful and my cast were as good as gold and better. I’m pretty excited to have ticked that off of my to-do list. Every month so far this year, I do one thing that terrifies me that has been good for personal growth. January, I put up one of my paintings for sale, and it sold. February, I taught my first snake dance class, with burlesque in mind. This month it’s two things: directing a short film based on a script that I wrote, and the second is acting as vendor and sponsor coordinator for the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival, which is happening in April. Since last we’ve talked I’ve wracked up a few more screen credits, written a number of essays, toured as a sideshow performer up and down the West Coast of North America, and started my own Patreon account. Things are going very well these days.
DERF: The last time I interviewed you, we were discussing your role in the cult classic film American Mary. I understand you have a new movie role you would like to discuss. What is the name of the film?
RISK: Aliens Ate My Homework, based on the novel by author Bruce Coville. The book was celebrating it’s 25th centennial last year in 2017, so it was auspicious as a time to bring it to film.
DERF: In Aliens Ate My Homework, what is your character’s name? Tell us a little about her.
RISK: My character is Madame Pong, diplomatic officer of the Starship Ferkle.
DERF: How did your prepare for the part? I mean, what inspired you to be the best alien you could be?
RISK: I’ve watched Sci-Fi films all of my life, and read more of it on printed page. I think that my Madame Pong is more regal Star Trek than slithering xenomorph, and certainly more friendly too. But I watched lots of space operas to get me well in the mood.
DERF: Fans of yours know that you are friends with the Soska Sisters, are you planning on working with them for another film?
RISK: I would love to work with them again. Working with them is so easy and we flow together well. The last project we worked on together was the Women In Horror Month Massive Blood Drive PSA video, Twinpool. Any time we get to share a set together, it’s totally magical.I know they’ve got a pretty full plate coming up what with Rabid and all, but if there is a chance to audition for them, I adore working with them and their vision.
DERF: Do you still do a lot of modeling?
RISK: I don’t do as much any more. My focus has shifted now from modelling to acting, which is like modelling plus. I still love creating crazy shoots and editorials with my friends, but there is only so much time in a day, and I find that some things may fall by the wayside in favor of other endeavors.
DERF: What else can we expect from you in the near future?
RISK: My short film Parlour Tricks will be out this year, I’m launching my Patreon account this month with blogs, vlogs, BTS, special photo sets, videos and more. My partner and I are continuing to give our snake workshops, which teaches handling and husbandry. And finally, Aliens Ate My Homework comes out March 5th on Blu-ray and DVD through Universal Pictures.
DERF: I look forward in seeing Parlour Tricks. Do you have any movies that you are dying to see?
RISK: I just saw The Shape Of Water, which I’ve basically been waiting to see my whole life.
DERF: I’m glad to hear it, I want to see it for myself. Do you have any movies that you would recommend to our readers?
RISK: LOL, well, The Shape Of Water, The Three Don’ts from Celtic Badger Media, Ayla, Amplify Her, and everyone should re-watch The Dark Crystal.
DERF: Great advice! Where can our readers follow your wonderful career?
RISK: You will soon be able to find me on Patreon, and I’m on both Instagram and Twitter as @littlemissrisk. You can check out my circus/sideshow collective, The Caravan Of Creeps, on Facebook and on Instagram at @carvanofcreeps!
DERF: Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! make sure to check out Aliens Ate My Homework in stores and available on demand March 5th as well as her upcoming short film Parlour Tricks when it is released. I will keep you posted when it becomes available.
Until next time, unleash your inner NERD!
