Introduction
In a recent episode of the Drink O’Clock podcast, host Rob Valincius sat down with actor Matt Drago. As an East Coast native now making waves in Los Angeles, Matt shares his journey into acting, insights from his current project “Somewhere in Montana,” and a deep dive into his experiences and philosophies around film, life, and everything in between.
The Beginning: East Coast Roots
Matt Drago’s story begins in rural Virginia, where he grew up with a deep passion for stories and creativity. Matt’s stepfather, a chef, instilled in him a love for art that was further fueled by his participation in numerous theater productions. These early experiences taught Matt that pursuing your dreams requires hard work, a lesson he carried with him into his acting career.
A Journey West: Embracing Creativity in Los Angeles
Matt Drago made the brave decision to move to Los Angeles to pursue acting full-time. In the competitive world of Hollywood, Matt embraced his unique “actor’s myth,” a concept he learned from renowned teacher Sam Christensen, which emphasizes leaning into the natural energy and presence one projects. For Matt, understanding and embracing his energetic passion has been key in shaping his career and opening doors to roles like that of Fabian in “Somewhere in Montana.”
Behind the Scenes: Shooting ‘Somewhere in Montana’
Filming “Somewhere in Montana” offered Matt more than just an acting role; it provided an experience rich with collaboration and community. The film, shot entirely in Polson, Montana, allowed for deep connections with both the people and the stunning landscape. Matt describes Montana as an artist’s paradise, where the beauty of nature served as a perfect backdrop for a story about two seemingly different worlds finding common ground.
Matt’s experience on set was enriched by his interactions with the local people, learning about their lives, and building mutual respect. This atmosphere of understanding and camaraderie shines through in the film, especially in poignant scenes between Matt and co-star Graham McTavish that tackle complex societal issues with grace and openness.
A Dialogue about Typecasting and Creative Freedom
During the podcast, Matt also touched on the topic of typecasting in the industry. While some actors see it as a limiting factor, Matt views typecasting as an opportunity to repeatedly work on roles that resonate with what he naturally projects. However, he also relishes opportunities to play against type, such as a challenging antagonist role written for him by “Somewhere in Montana” director Brandon Smith.
Concluding Thoughts and The Future
As the podcast wraps up, Matt reflects on his role not only as an actor but as a storyteller committed to bringing human stories to life. With a growing career and roles that continue to push his creative boundaries, Matt Drago is keen on defying expectations and crafting narratives that resonate with audiences.
For now, he invites everyone to support indie films like “Somewhere in Montana,” which provide diverse spaces for meaningful stories. You can follow Matt Drago’s journey on Instagram and prepare for his film’s streaming release, all while embracing unique narratives that challenge and inspire.
Through conversations like those shared on the Drink O’Clock Podcast, listeners are reminded of the power of storytelling—an ever-relevant tool to connect, understand, and share the vibrant tapestry of the human experience.
This episode is available on all major podcast platforms, so grab a drink, tune in, and be prepared to dive deep into a world where dreams meet determination. Cheers!