Shaquila Angela Griszell is an American-Guyanese actress. She is known for her supporting role in Fox feature film called Goldie (2019) directed by Sam De Jong. Over the years she has gained professional acting training at HB Studios and is continuing her training at Identity Drama School. Shaquila takes pride in her work and takes initiative to develop herself as a working actor in the industry.
INTERVIEW
SHAQUILA ANGELA GRISZELL
“Keep your dream alive and do not give up by any means necessary!”
Thank you so much for interviewing with us! Can you share your story on how did you get started in the film industry?
It was very random. I say this because it happened when I was walking around Harlem, New York with my Dad. I was looking at sunglasses and a woman came up to me and she went “I just wanted to let you know I really love your look and there is a director who is casting a film in NY and I feel you will be perfect for this part”. I immediately laughed and I just assumed she wasn’t telling the truth and that it was a scam! I have been in many situations throughout my life trying to break into the industry and was made promises and paid money just for it to turn out to be a scam. And so she goes “no it’s legit! Here let me take your picture and email” and I went “fine” so I gave it to her.
A week or two later, I got an email from the casting director, and when I opened it, it read “We want to invite you to come down to Vice studios and audition for the role of Princess”. I was in shock because Vice Studios wanted me to audition! On the day of the audition, I arrived at Vice and there were so many girls waiting to audition for Princess! And I remember being a bit nervous and thinking to myself “There is no way I’m going to get this part…”. When I left the audition room, I felt feeling good but was just not certain of the outcome. I told myself “If they call me back, then great! If they don’t I’m still great, and I’m not a horrible person”.
A week later they called me back, but this time I had to audition with fewer competitors. So I got there and I gave it my best shot. About a week later I got a call telling me “I got the part”. It was the best feeling in the world! I would never forget that day. And that’s how it all started for me.
Who are you grateful towards your success and can you share a story about that?
I would say my Dad is one of my biggest inspirations to become an actress. He is the person who introduced me to movies at a very young age, and I fell in love with seeing actors on the screen and wanted to be a part of that world. I always had a big imagination since I was a child and had this constant vision of seeing myself on a big screen or stage. So, thanks, Dad!
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What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? And How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge would be navigating through the world of acting. Getting a lot of no’s and some yes’s. But, I overcame it by eventually just developing resilience towards it. Accepting that not everyone is going to see your talent. And not letting it define me or stop me from doing what I truly love most, even if others think it’s not possible for me.
What are your ‘‘5 things I do to prepare for the role” and are you able to share a story or example for each?
1. I warm up.
2. I make sure I fully memorize and know my lines by heart - it helps me to feel less nervous.
3. I blank out what other people may think of me.
4. I remember to have fun.
5. I tell myself there are many opportunities.
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What methods or techniques do you use to find truth in your character’s behaviour?
I am still in the process of exploring what technique/methods are best for me. I still haven’t reached all of them. But for the most part, I try to find ways to relate to the character. Even if it’s not my personal experience, I just try and put myself in the shoes of that character. I bring a little bit of myself and what I know or don’t know about the character or situation. For me, it’s about using my imagination and incorporating it into the character I want to bring to life.
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What are your top 3 tips for actors that are starting?
1. Whatever you do, no matter what you’re going through, keep your dream alive and do not give up by any means necessary. Sounds cliche but it’s true.
2. Know who you are and don’t let anyone tell you who you are. Take advice and criticism with a grain of salt. People will try to tear you down in this industry.
3. Be consistent and have fun. Acting is already challenging enough. Remember to have fun. It’s like when you were a kid and you would create crazy scenarios when you’re playing or with your friends and you didn’t care who was watching. Remember that!
What has been inspiring you lately?
Watching a lot of YouTube videos on people who give great advice on acting. Those videos helped me to stay focus and work on areas that I haven’t thought of exploring. Also, some of my acting peers that I’ve met along the way motivate me a lot.
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What movie would you recommend watching and why?
That’s a tough question. I have a lot of favourite movies. But my all-time favourite has to be Chicago (2002) starring Richard Gere, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger. OMG, that movie gives me goosebumps just thinking about it! It’s the only musical I would watch again and again. Because the storyline is so intriguing! The acting, singing, choreography was impeccable!
What is one message you would give to your fans?
I don’t think I have a fan base yet, but I have family and friends that love and support me and that’s what matters the most for me right now.
