JESSIE: An Interview with BRANDY LITTLE

 

Brandy Little makes her second screen appearance following her role in Andy Anderson's Detention. For American Nightmare, Brandy portrays Jessie, one of three sisters at the center of Jane's deadly game.

In your own words, how would you describe the story of American Nightmare?

To me American Nightmare is an adventure into the expression and repression of pain and vengeance. The overall story is not only tight, it's adventurous. It's not just a killer who kills via a method through the whole movie, [her methods] are customized to fit each person, which is even more disturbing. I think it's just a cool - I wouldn't say "twist" because every story can be reformed and put out in a different light. This is original, at least to me; I haven't seen anything like it. And I'm excited about the psychological-thriller aspect of it, as opposed to being a horror-slasher flick. I enjoyed the fact that it's for an intelligent audience.

Tell us about your character, Jessie?

I would describe Jessie as bold, assertive, protective, and creative. She is stuck in the guilt of losing herself in the loss of her sister, and she is battling the fear of the known as well as the unknown.

What challenges did you face in playing Jessie?

It is a challenge not to play the victim. To be able to maintain after repeated devastating blows, and to persevere with dignity.

Did you do any special training or preparing for your role of Jessie?

I did not do anything "special" to train for the role of Jessie. I spent a great deal of time on background information and filling in the days of her life.

What did you, Brandy Little, bring to the role of Jessie?

I brought everything to Jessie. If I have to be specific, I would say I brought my power, my sensitivity, and my insecurities.

How would you define the relationship between Jane and Jessie?

I would describe the relationship between Jane and Jessie as TENSE. They both gain from the strength and energy of others. Jane takes it, Jessie shares it. It makes for an interesting dynamic between the two when they finally come face to face!

Most male/female protaganist teams have the male being the stronger character. However, in A-N, you are the stronger. Was this a strange relationship to portray?

No, this was not a strange relationship to play, because I did not play it that way. I played us as equals, as a team. That is from where Jessie and Wayne draw their power.

What process did you go through to get the role?

I went through the same process as everyone else, I'm sure. My headshot was submitted by my agent in a large packet with many others. They then called me in for an audition. A couple of months later they invited me back to run one of the scenes with some of the other actors they were considering for the various assorted roles. Soon after that, I received the offer from them to play Jessie. To which I replied yes, yes, twenty times yes!

How did the rehearsals go?

The rehearsals were great! They are always beneficial in my opinion. It was the first glimpse into the wonderful team effort that is American Nightmare.

You spent many long nights on location. How was that?

The change in schedule for me was strange but fun. It took a couple of days for my body to adapt to the inversion of it's normal patterns, but we were making a movie!! I cannot think of a better reason to stay up all night long and play.

What was your favorite aspect of filming, American Nightmare?

My favorite aspect of filming American Nightmare was all of the wonderful people that I met and worked with. Every person was a joy to be around. My favorite, favorite though is Hayden- what an angel and one terrific little actress.