We got to chat with Matt Shevin who stars in Lifetime’s new movie “Her Secret Family Killer”. We chatted with him about the movie, working with Lifetime, and more!
upfrontNY: When did you know that you wanted to pursue acting?
Matt Shevin: I was on the other side of the camera, helping cast a commercial, and found that I had a skill for acting opposite some well-known actors. I became bitten by the bug and began pursuing this career with full passion.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about “Her Secret Family Killer” ?
Matt Shevin: It’s a thriller that takes place in a small, tight-knit community. Some murders take place, and family members become suspects. It’s a great movie that was so well written and produced, and keeps you guessing the entire way through.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your character Roger and what was the best part of playing him?
Matt Shevin: Roger is the town’s sheriff. He suffers from low self-esteem, constantly trying to prove others wrong about his abilities as a police officer, and it’s wearing him down. When his trust is betrayed, he snaps. The best part of playing him was that it was essentially a chance to play two roles. My final scene is my favorite thing I’ve ever performed.
upfrontNY: How did you prepare for your role as Roger?
Matt Shevin: I took my time trying to identify how he and I were alike. I also read the script dozens of times to familiarize myself with the entire story. And, because Roger has a tremendous amount of dialogue, I had to memorize like crazy.
upfrontNY: What was it like working with Lifetime?
Matt Shevin: Everything was first-rate. They took care of the cast and crew and spared no expense. They then did a terrific job promoting the film. I’m a big fan.
upfrontNY: The movie is a thriller, what are some of your favorite thrillers?
Matt Shevin: I love Silence of the Lambs, Se7en, No Country For Old Men, and Sicario.
upfrontNY: You also starred in The Beneficiary, an award- winning film you wrote and produced. What was it like having your work recognized?
Matt Shevin: Really exciting. It was directed by Theodore Melfi, who went on to shoot Hidden Figures, and we poured everything we had into our film and it paid off in festivals for over a year.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about “Hucksters”?
Matt Shevin: It’s a workplace sitcom pilot I wrote and produced and starred in. I think it it’s hilarious, and want to shoot two more episodes before packaging it together for a network.
upfrontNY: You are an actor, writer, producer. Do you favor one over the others?
Matt Shevin: Acting is the most fun. Writing is very challenging, but a great means to an end – you have to create your own opportunities and you get to write yourself roles you love. Producing “Hucksters” was tough, but so satisfying. I was in charge of everything, including acquiring shooting permits and props, and when I pulled it all off, I was hooked.
upfrontNY: What has been the best part of living in LA?
Matt Shevin: I love it here. There is such a positive energy in this city – people happily pursuing their passion. Plus it’s an entirely eclectic place. The cliché that you can go surfing and skiing in the same day in LA is true.
upfrontNY: What do you like to do when you are not acting?
Matt Shevin: I love to challenge myself by learning new skills. Last year, I taught myself to cook. Then I taught myself to paint. I made soap! A few weeks ago, I took a glassblowing class. I want to try wood-working next.
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