Chasing his dream

Actor Joshua Frederic Smith on pursuing his childhood passion, and his latest project, “DAM999”

GOING PLACES: Joshua Frederic Smith

Joshua Frederic Smith led the life of a cowboy on a vast ranch in Northern California. And, during his childhood, even had a ‘reel' town — George Town — as his exclusive playground. Created by his grandfather George Smith, it was an old West town filled with props of period buildings, old automobiles and bustling with studio hands going about their daily grind. Joshua was so enamoured by the goings-on and would imagine himself as part of the proceedings. His grandpa even called him John Wayne; only, Joshua didn't know who Wayne was! Grandpa Smith knew that some day his little grandson would make it big in Hollywood.

And, he's getting there! Joshua plays a crucial role in Sohan Roy's international venture “DAM999”, due for release by the year-end. Excerpts from an interview with an actor who calls himself an outdoors guy, yet someone who loves writing and playing music.

When was your first major role in films? And, which one is closest to your heart?

My first role was when I was 12 in the movie ‘Quest Of The Delta Knights'. It was a lot of fun because I didn't have to go to school for four months, and it was filmed around my home and nearby counties. I've worked in more than five movies, and I like my work in ‘The Road To Freedom'. ‘DAM999''s shaping up well too.

How did you land ‘DAM999'?

Last summer, I was in Cambodia filming ‘The Road To Freedom'. When I got back, I got a chance to read for ‘DAM999'

, and it all fell in place. It took the makers almost five months to get back to me, but wonderful things come with patience.

What's your role in the movie like?

I play a sarcastic British mariner, Fredric Brown, who travels to his homeland to re-visit friends and family. He has a wonderful time with his friend Vinay and beautiful girlfriend Razia.

What kind of roles are you looking at?

I'm more a drama kind of guy, but throw in some comedy and action, and I'm all for it! I really want to be involved in films that have a wide audience.

How were your struggling years in Hollywood like?

There's no glamour in trying to make it in Hollywood; it's all hard work. But, I've had some amazing jobs before that. One year, I was building decks in Santa Monica, and that was a lot of fun!

How familiar are you with Indian films?

Honestly, not that much. ‘Slumdog Millionaire' wasn't filmed by an Indian, so, to me, that doesn't count. When I was on location in Kochi, I got to see a lot of films and commercials being shot. Hopefully, I'll be back here for another international project!

Have you interacted with any Indian actors / directors?

Yes. About four years ago, I had a small part in a film called ‘Touch Wood' — the director was Indian, and so was the producer. That was a fun shoot. With ‘DAM999', I've made more Indian friends. Most importantly, it's great knowing I'm in Hollywood, and working on films here too — it's like a part of India is with me forever now.