Hey Adventurers!
Thanks for checking out this week's MythForce interview with the voice behind Rico, actor Lee Savage!
Developing his acting skills with the Company of Rogues actors studio, and through workshops with Deborah Aquila of The Aquila Studios, Lee Savage began his career dancing and hosting shows and events at the age of 18. In his spare time, Lee builds his balance on either the snow-, long-, or surfboard and creates in the kitchen and on his social media.
What's the unique challenge of voice acting as opposed to stage or screen acting?
The small space in which to express myself! Seriously, I find voice acting to be much more accommodating as I am able to use my body to go over the top and capture the moment with no worry of overacting, so for me it's easier than screen or stage. The unique aspect of voice work is getting to build that world. It's a much different process from creating the scene with props and sets.
How did you first become involved in voice acting?
Hosting male strip shows! That led me into public speaking, then emceeing Muay Thai fights, which then brought me to this very project, which is technically my first actual voice-over.
Who are some of the performers whose work has most inspired your own?
Ewan McGregor is so multifaceted. His work in Moulin Rouge has me singing along every time.
Hugh Jackman really is the greatest showman. (I am also gunning for the role of Wolverine.)
Charlize Theron never backs down from a role. Her ability is one I aspire to.
I believe in order to achieve greatness one must model, mimic, and multiply it. I must live as if it already is, and these three help me paint that vision for my own success.
What most appeals to you about the character of Rico?
He is my brand personified: the rogue, the outlaw, the fringe, created in a harsh atmosphere and finding redemption through the power of people. It resonates with my history.
Was there a particular challenge in portraying Rico?
I'd really have to say the hardest part was keeping the swashbuckling attitude. There is a whole lot of hurt behind Rico's eyes, but there is also this carefree lover just waiting to get out, biding his time, being patient for the moment when he can feel no guilt or shame in enjoying and embracing the warmth of the honest and true lifestyle he so desperately wants. Redemption stories are my favorite. Sacrifice means everything.
What's your favorite video game? Or do you have a favorite memory of playing video games?
Final Fantasy 7 hands down, and I was not disappointed with the remakes.
As for my favorite memory, I was playing Silent Hill for the first time. It was probably during the creepiest moment of the game when right outside my apartment patio was thick fog. It really set the mood. Little did I know my mother had come home late that night, and I was still up playing this game way past my bedtime. She decided it would be funny to sneak up behind me and scare the living crap out of me. I pretty much peed myself and almost passed out. Ah, the good ol' days.
After MythForce, what other exciting roles do you have coming up?
Hoping to finish filming Bagman Rising (a dark horror action buddy comedy, filled with the most immature dialogue and a clichéd revenge plot) this year to get it out for 2023. Other than that, I just enjoy that I get to audition for new and interesting projects often.
Where can people follow your adventures on social media?
You can find me anywhere by looking up "thesavagelee," "theleesavage,” or on Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/leesavageDevelopment
That's all for today's interview. Tune in next week for an interview with the voice behind Maggie, Nazneen Contractor.