A fan chat network website, Castle Whitefang, orchestrated an
exclusive interview with Harry Potter actor, Matthew Lewis to
celebrate their One Year Anniversary.
The actor behind the much beloved Neville Longbottom logged in and
chatted with an estimated 30 fans on the 1st of February 2009.
He was polite, well-spoken and gracious. He stayed longer than
necessary to make sure everyone had their questions answered.
Books and Wands' very own Rilian took part in the event and was on
hand to ask the question (#16) in person: Matt took the
opportunity to thank his family and friends for their support and
loyalty.
The qualities one admires and appreciates in others are qualities
one possesses. If you are able to recognize it in others, you'd
have to know what it was in the first place. That being said, Matt
clearly appreciates loyalty, honesty, straightforwardness and
creativity.
But don't take my word for it, read the interview yourself!
exclusive interview with Harry Potter actor, Matthew Lewis to
celebrate their One Year Anniversary.
The actor behind the much beloved Neville Longbottom logged in and
chatted with an estimated 30 fans on the 1st of February 2009.
He was polite, well-spoken and gracious. He stayed longer than
necessary to make sure everyone had their questions answered.
Books and Wands' very own Rilian took part in the event and was on
hand to ask the question (#16) in person: Matt took the
opportunity to thank his family and friends for their support and
loyalty.
The qualities one admires and appreciates in others are qualities
one possesses. If you are able to recognize it in others, you'd
have to know what it was in the first place. That being said, Matt
clearly appreciates loyalty, honesty, straightforwardness and
creativity.
But don't take my word for it, read the interview yourself!
| Matthew Lewis Interview |
| The Interview |
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Ladies and gentleman, I am very proud to welcome MATTHEW LEWIS to
Castle Whitefang!
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Hello everybody!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
So, we are going to get straight on with the Interview!
Question 1:
(on behalf of the Unforgettable: The Magical Photos website)
Where do you see yourself professionally in ten years?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Well, this is something that I've been thinking about a lot
recently. The Harry Potter films are coming to an end relatively
soon and acting is all I've ever known and wanted to do. I have no
idea where I'm going to be exactly in the coming years but
hopefully I'll still be a jobbing actor, entertaining as best I
can, whether it's in film or TV!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 2 is being asked by First Year Kate Estiller. Please post
Kate.
First Year Kate Estiller:
Question 2: If you weren't Neville in Harry Potter, what fandom
would you prefer or what character would you be?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I love this question! I'm such a geek when it comes to this kind
of stuff - and being a geek is cool nowadays, we run everything!
I'd love to have been in Star Wars as Luke Skywalker or any of the
Jedis OR I'd have been Xander in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, he was
the best character for me!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 3 is being asked by Deputy Minister of Magic Katie Hill.
Please post Katie.
Deputy Minister of Magic Katie Hill:
Question 3: Does it ever feel strange if people come up to you
asking for autographs and pictures?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Yes, it really does. You get used to it a little bit but sometimes
you still have to take a step back and ask yourself "why?" It's
really an honour for me because I'd acted since I was 5 and it's
all I've ever wanted to do but I never really thought I would get
this far and so for people to want my autograph it gives me a
great sense of achievement. I've just got back from
L.A. and I was bowling in Hollywood and the guy at the counter
said "you're Matthew Lewis aren't you?" and I was so confused
because we were so far away from home. Nothing really prepares you
for that!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 4: (on behalf of the Matthew Lewis Lovers fansite)
What scene are you most looking forward to filming for Deathly
Hallows?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Deathly Hallows is going to be so much fun to shoot. I don't have
a script yet so I can't be exactly sure how everything is going to
work out. However, I think my answer will be a bit predictable!
The scene I'm looking forward to the most is when Neville swings
the sword and kills Nagini. That is going to be intense! In fact,
the whole final battle sequence is going to be amazing. Still
can't believe they're going to trust me with a sword though!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 5: (on behalf of Fourth Year Halie Gawley)
What was your reaction to finding out that you were going to be in
Harry Potter?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Well, my reaction to getting a 2nd audition was pretty wild but
when I was told I'd got the part, it was something else! I was
just a kid. I remember, I was 11 years old and my Mum got a phone
call, she was busy talking so she just gave me the thumbs up and I
knew instantly what she meant. I went crazy, I ran into the living
room where my friend and I were playing Playstation and we just
jumped around on the sofas and shouted a lot. I think Tom Cruise
tried doing that recently on TV - it doesn't go down as well when
you're older unfortunately!!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 6 is being asked by Junior Minister Sahoonie Puppie.
Please post Sahoonie.
Junior Minister Sahoonie Puppie:
Question 6: People obviously know you when you walk down the
street but have you ever wished that you could be invisible/left
in peace, even if just for a day?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Interesting. I've thought about being invisible before but not for
peace and quiet, more for mischief! I don't think I've ever wanted
to be left in peace by fans. It can be embarrassing sometimes when
I'm with my friends because they LOVE to make jokes about it but
you know, I really love meeting the fans that watch our movies. I
like to think people feel comfortable coming over and talking to
me because at the end of the day, we make the films for the fans,
and without them there would never be a picture. We work for you
guys! It's nice to hear feedback from you!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 7 is from the Luna Fans website, who have helped promote
the interview today, and there question is: Everyone from David
Yates to JK Rowling see Evanna as Luna. Personally, how similar is
Evanna to Luna according to you?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Haha. Well, when I first met Evanna I thought it was the most
perfect casting I had ever witnessed. She was just Luna Lovegood
in every way. However, she has changed so much in the last few
years. I've seen her mature and change a lot as a person yet when
she's on screen she is always able to capture Luna Lovegood
perfectly. I think to say that she IS Luna Lovegood would detract
from her talent slightly - she really is a great actress.
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 8 is being asked by Third Year Thomas Marsh. Please post
your question Thomas.
Third Year Thomas Marsh:
Question 8: Is it hard to play a part in Harry Potter?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Thanks for the question, Thomas! Acting can be difficult. I stay
in a hotel for a long time, away from home and my family and
friends for a large part of the year. However, it's a job I've
always wanted to do and I don't know many people that go to work
every day and can honestly say that they enjoy it but I know that
I do! It's sometimes long days and can be frustrating when you
don't get things quite right but that's the same with every job. I
have the added perks of working with some fantastic, amazingly
talented people, I get to work in mind-blowing environments, and
at the end of it all I get to look back on something so memorable
and unforgettable! It can be hard at times, but I wouldn't change
it for the world!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 9 is being asked by Professor Kast Phoenix. Please post
your question Kast.
Professor Kast Phoenix:
Question 9: What was your experience of wand-combat training like?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Interesting. Very interesting. Haha. We had a choreographer called
Paul Harris who came in to teach us. He devised all these routines
for different spells and we had to go and practice them in a big
tent. I think there was Dan, Rupert, Emma, Bonnie, Evanna and
myself. I felt ridiculous waving the wand around and shouting
spells because we weren't acting, so I wasn't Neville - I was just
Matthew, looking like an idiot! We all had a laugh though, and we
got into it, and by the end I think we all enjoyed ourselves. That
was until I apparently did one of the routines perfectly and Paul
made me stand in front of everyone and show them how to do it -
that was embarrassing let me tell you!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 10 is from the Muggles Behaving Badly Website, who helped
promote the interview today, and their question is: What's the
funniest thing that's happened to you on set?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
There has been so many funny days on set, where we can't stop
laughing. Everyone at the studio likes pranks and making jokes.
You wouldn't think it was a serious Hollywood film if you came to
visit, we laugh and joke so much! I remember one time on Prisoner
of Azkaban when we were in the Great Hall. We were all supposed to
be asleep whilst Dumbledore and Snape watched over us. Alan
Rickman and Michael Gambon were both in character, doing their
lines and then suddenly somebody farts! At first, everyone is
being professional and nobody laughs. Then it happens again. A few
ripples of laughter breakout. It happens again. And again. And
again. By this point the whole room is laughing. Alan and Michael
were still trying to do the scene but eventually even they had to
stop. Turns out someone had hidden a fart machine in one of the
sleeping bags and Alfonso Cuaron (the Director!) had the remote
control and was in hysterics behind the monitors. That was pretty
funny!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 11 (on behalf of Third Year Cine Cauldron Crisp):
In the Deathly Hallows book, your character has a pivotal role of
killing the final crucifix in the snake Nagini. How does it feel
to play a character that is so pivotal to many of the main plot
lines?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
It gives me a great sense of responsibility. I know what the books
meant to me when I read them and I imagine the films can mean the
same to people and so it's very important to get it right. Playing
a character that has such a crucial role in how the story develops
is inspiring and I'm very excited about it - I just have to make
sure I don't mess it up!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 12 is being asked by Minister Tiffani Yager.
Minister Tiffani Yager:
Question 12: Do you hang out with any of the cast when you’re not
taping for Harry Potter?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
We film at Leavesden Studios which is in Watford and most of the
cast live in London which is roughly 20-30 miles away from the
studios I think. However, I live in Leeds which is about 170 miles
away from the studio. As you can imagine, when I was younger, this
made it difficult to see the others when we weren't filming. Now
it's much easier. I can drive to their houses whenever I want,
it's still pretty far for me to go but it's always fun when I do.
I went to see Oasis in October with James and Oliver Phelps. I've
stayed at Emma Watson's house in Oxford and there's always
someone's birthday party that I try and get down for!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 13 is from the website Ron and Hermione Source who helped
advertise this interview, and is as follows:
If you have read the last Harry Potter book, are you excited to
play any of the Kick-Butt Neville moments? If so, what was your
favorite Neville moment in book 7?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Yeah, I'm sorry, I'm going to be predictable again! It's got to be
the sword swinging, snake killing bit I'm looking forward to most.
I guess that's pretty "Kick-Butt". I'm really excited about it. I
got a taste for the action side of things in Order of the Phoenix
and I can't wait to do some more!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 14 was submitted by New First Year bob smith:
Do you intend to act on a long-term basis after the Harry Potter
series is completed?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I really hope so. Acting is an industry where nothing is certain.
I have no idea what I'm going to be doing or where I'm going to be
in 5 years time. All I know right now is that it's what I want to
do. I think I'm just going to give it my best and have a real go.
If it doesn't work out, it doesn't work out! We'll see.
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 15 was submitted by Sixth Year shaiz khn. Please ask your
question shaiz.
Sixth Year shaiz khn:
Have you ever visited any of your fansites online? How did it feel
to see yourself so magnified?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Haha. It's strange! I don't know how to describe it really. It's
quite overwhelming I guess. I mean, I went to a normal school in
Leeds, there was nothing extraordinary about it and my closest
friends are normal people, students at university mostly. I don't
see myself as a big actor in movies and stuff, I try and keep
everything as normal as possible, haha. So, when I see these
websites, it's really shocking - and I mean that in a good way! It
makes me really proud and I suppose this would be a good time to
thank all the people that put the time and effort in and have
supported me in that way. It's really fantastic and I'll try and
do my best to repay the favour by keeping you entertained and I'll
try and do a good job!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 16 is from the website Books and Wands who helped promote
the interview today.
Please ask your question Rilian.
Rilian Holden:
Who would you say has been a great influence in your life and why
or what qualities do you admire about them?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I have a ton of influences. I suppose my brothers, Anthony and
Chris would be up there. Anthony was an actor before me and it was
visiting him working that gave me the idea to become one myself.
Chris works in the industry also, but behind the camera! My
parents gave me values and brought me up in such a way that I
don't think I could thank them enough for. All my friends at
school that were there before Harry Potter and are still there
today. The cast and crew at Harry Potter. Starting acting at such
a young age, I was very impressionable. I can't attribute what
I've grown into to any one person. So many people have influenced
me. I started a band last year so even Noel Gallagher is in there
somewhere and I've never met him!!
VIP Matthew Lewis: Not quite finished!
VIP Matthew Lewis:
The qualities I admire the most about the people I mentioned is
the reason they are so close to me. My family and the friends that
I consider the closest are the ones that will tell me when I'm
being an idiot! I think it's easy in this industry to think in
your mind that you are something that you're not. My friends and
family make sure that doesn't happen to me. I don't suppose
they'll ever read this but cheers!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 17 is being asked by Third Year Cine Cauldron Crisp on
behalf of Fourth Year Athene Prewett.
Please ask the question Cine.
Third Year Cine Cauldron Crisp:
What made you want to be an actor in the Harry Potter movies?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
The story. I was a fan of the books before I'd heard there was a
movie planned. It captured me instantly and when news of the movie
surfaced I had nothing else on my mind! I wanted to be a part of
it in anyway!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 18 is being asked by First Year Jonathan P-S.
Please ask your question Jonathan.
First Year Jonathan P-S:
If you could have played any other character in the Harry Potter
films, which one would you have liked to play and why?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Good question. Every time I get this question I think my answer
changes! I think today, I would choose two people. Can I say two
people? I think somebody evil would be fun because I've never done
that before - probably Lucius Malfoy. I also love making people
laugh and the character that did that the most for me was Gilderoy
Lockhart. I don't think I'd be anywhere near as good as Jason
Isaacs or Kenneth Branagh, but it would be fun to have a go!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 19 is from the Ice Cream Man (Rupert Grint) website who
helped promote the interview today.
Please ask your question Ivana.
Ivana Medic:
What is the funniest thing Rupert Grint has ever done on AND off
Harry Potter set?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Rupert can make me laugh just by looking at me. He can be so hard
to do a scene with sometimes because when he starts to laugh,
that's it, you laugh too. It's fun though! I think on set, it's
probably in the scene when Harry and Seamus have an altercation in
the Common Room in Order of the Phoenix. Rupert had a line that
was something like "...unless you want a fist full of Weasley...."
and it was just impossible. Every time he did it, somebody
laughed. Rupert, Dan, Devon, Alfie, me. Somebody laughed and that
set everyone else off, I think they had to cut most of that scene
in the end! Off set, the funniest thing that I remember is when we
were playing darts in his dressing room. He dropped one of his
darts and it got stuck in my foot! It was pretty painful but his
face was so funny, and I couldn't help but laugh. He apologised
and I don't think he did it on purpose....I don't think. Reading
that back, it doesn't sound that funny, but believe me, we still
laugh about it today!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 20 was submitted by Fourth Year Isabella Johnson who is
unfortunately not here, and the question is:
Which of the Harry Potter directors did you like most and do you
approve that David Yates is going to shoot the following films as
well?
Only one more to go after this!
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I can't pick one Director as my favourite. They all brought
something different to the movies that they directed. They all had
their own ideas and take on the story and they had widely
different personalities too. I got on with them all and it was an
absolute pleasure and honour to work with every one of them. I
love working with David Yates - he is just a really nice man and
so talented. He makes sure that everybody on the set knows what
they are doing and that they have a role to play in the scene no
matter how small. His grasp of the story and how things should be
is really inspiring and I'm really looking forward to going back
to work with him. I really think he has managed to bring out the
best in me as an actor and I'm sure that my colleagues would say
the same.
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Final Question ..... Question 21, which is being asked by
Professor Kast Phoenix. Take it away Kast.
Professor Kast Phoenix:
Question 21: How strong a sense of place did you have on set? Were
the sets complete rooms or were there walls missing?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
It really depends on the particular shot. For example, The Great
Hall is a complete room, all four walls and a big, gold door at
one end. Mostly, the camera will be inside and the set won't
change. However, sometimes the Director may want to do a wider
shot or a big sweeping shot that involves putting the camera on a
huge crane. The only way to do these would involve taking one of
the walls out, so they do! That is the advantage to shooting
mostly in the studio. The sets can all be taken apart and rebuilt
to suit the preference of the Director. One set that was the
hardest to shoot on, in my opinion, was the Hall of Prophecy,
because it didn't exist! That was shot entirely on green screen
and put in afterwards using special effects. All we had to go on
was the floor layout and each other. Now that was tough!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Alrighty!
Matthew, thank you so much for agreeing to this interview and for
staying so much longer to answer all the questions. (Matt
graciously stayed an hour longer than was originally agreed upon
to answer everyone’s questions.)
I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say thank you. I really
appreciate the time you have devoted to coming here today and it
has been an absolute pleasure having you here with us.
I would like to wish you the very best with your career and the
upcoming future.
VIP Matthew Lewis:
That's no problem at all. It's been an absolute pleasure. Thank
you to everyone who asked questions, and thanks to all the people
that bothered to come and listen to me go on and on! Ha, thanks
again, hope you all enjoy the new movie in July!
All you need is love,
Matt x
Ladies and gentleman, I am very proud to welcome MATTHEW LEWIS to
Castle Whitefang!
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Hello everybody!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
So, we are going to get straight on with the Interview!
Question 1:
(on behalf of the Unforgettable: The Magical Photos website)
Where do you see yourself professionally in ten years?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Well, this is something that I've been thinking about a lot
recently. The Harry Potter films are coming to an end relatively
soon and acting is all I've ever known and wanted to do. I have no
idea where I'm going to be exactly in the coming years but
hopefully I'll still be a jobbing actor, entertaining as best I
can, whether it's in film or TV!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 2 is being asked by First Year Kate Estiller. Please post
Kate.
First Year Kate Estiller:
Question 2: If you weren't Neville in Harry Potter, what fandom
would you prefer or what character would you be?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I love this question! I'm such a geek when it comes to this kind
of stuff - and being a geek is cool nowadays, we run everything!
I'd love to have been in Star Wars as Luke Skywalker or any of the
Jedis OR I'd have been Xander in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, he was
the best character for me!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 3 is being asked by Deputy Minister of Magic Katie Hill.
Please post Katie.
Deputy Minister of Magic Katie Hill:
Question 3: Does it ever feel strange if people come up to you
asking for autographs and pictures?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Yes, it really does. You get used to it a little bit but sometimes
you still have to take a step back and ask yourself "why?" It's
really an honour for me because I'd acted since I was 5 and it's
all I've ever wanted to do but I never really thought I would get
this far and so for people to want my autograph it gives me a
great sense of achievement. I've just got back from
L.A. and I was bowling in Hollywood and the guy at the counter
said "you're Matthew Lewis aren't you?" and I was so confused
because we were so far away from home. Nothing really prepares you
for that!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 4: (on behalf of the Matthew Lewis Lovers fansite)
What scene are you most looking forward to filming for Deathly
Hallows?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Deathly Hallows is going to be so much fun to shoot. I don't have
a script yet so I can't be exactly sure how everything is going to
work out. However, I think my answer will be a bit predictable!
The scene I'm looking forward to the most is when Neville swings
the sword and kills Nagini. That is going to be intense! In fact,
the whole final battle sequence is going to be amazing. Still
can't believe they're going to trust me with a sword though!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 5: (on behalf of Fourth Year Halie Gawley)
What was your reaction to finding out that you were going to be in
Harry Potter?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Well, my reaction to getting a 2nd audition was pretty wild but
when I was told I'd got the part, it was something else! I was
just a kid. I remember, I was 11 years old and my Mum got a phone
call, she was busy talking so she just gave me the thumbs up and I
knew instantly what she meant. I went crazy, I ran into the living
room where my friend and I were playing Playstation and we just
jumped around on the sofas and shouted a lot. I think Tom Cruise
tried doing that recently on TV - it doesn't go down as well when
you're older unfortunately!!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 6 is being asked by Junior Minister Sahoonie Puppie.
Please post Sahoonie.
Junior Minister Sahoonie Puppie:
Question 6: People obviously know you when you walk down the
street but have you ever wished that you could be invisible/left
in peace, even if just for a day?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Interesting. I've thought about being invisible before but not for
peace and quiet, more for mischief! I don't think I've ever wanted
to be left in peace by fans. It can be embarrassing sometimes when
I'm with my friends because they LOVE to make jokes about it but
you know, I really love meeting the fans that watch our movies. I
like to think people feel comfortable coming over and talking to
me because at the end of the day, we make the films for the fans,
and without them there would never be a picture. We work for you
guys! It's nice to hear feedback from you!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 7 is from the Luna Fans website, who have helped promote
the interview today, and there question is: Everyone from David
Yates to JK Rowling see Evanna as Luna. Personally, how similar is
Evanna to Luna according to you?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Haha. Well, when I first met Evanna I thought it was the most
perfect casting I had ever witnessed. She was just Luna Lovegood
in every way. However, she has changed so much in the last few
years. I've seen her mature and change a lot as a person yet when
she's on screen she is always able to capture Luna Lovegood
perfectly. I think to say that she IS Luna Lovegood would detract
from her talent slightly - she really is a great actress.
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 8 is being asked by Third Year Thomas Marsh. Please post
your question Thomas.
Third Year Thomas Marsh:
Question 8: Is it hard to play a part in Harry Potter?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Thanks for the question, Thomas! Acting can be difficult. I stay
in a hotel for a long time, away from home and my family and
friends for a large part of the year. However, it's a job I've
always wanted to do and I don't know many people that go to work
every day and can honestly say that they enjoy it but I know that
I do! It's sometimes long days and can be frustrating when you
don't get things quite right but that's the same with every job. I
have the added perks of working with some fantastic, amazingly
talented people, I get to work in mind-blowing environments, and
at the end of it all I get to look back on something so memorable
and unforgettable! It can be hard at times, but I wouldn't change
it for the world!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 9 is being asked by Professor Kast Phoenix. Please post
your question Kast.
Professor Kast Phoenix:
Question 9: What was your experience of wand-combat training like?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Interesting. Very interesting. Haha. We had a choreographer called
Paul Harris who came in to teach us. He devised all these routines
for different spells and we had to go and practice them in a big
tent. I think there was Dan, Rupert, Emma, Bonnie, Evanna and
myself. I felt ridiculous waving the wand around and shouting
spells because we weren't acting, so I wasn't Neville - I was just
Matthew, looking like an idiot! We all had a laugh though, and we
got into it, and by the end I think we all enjoyed ourselves. That
was until I apparently did one of the routines perfectly and Paul
made me stand in front of everyone and show them how to do it -
that was embarrassing let me tell you!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 10 is from the Muggles Behaving Badly Website, who helped
promote the interview today, and their question is: What's the
funniest thing that's happened to you on set?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
There has been so many funny days on set, where we can't stop
laughing. Everyone at the studio likes pranks and making jokes.
You wouldn't think it was a serious Hollywood film if you came to
visit, we laugh and joke so much! I remember one time on Prisoner
of Azkaban when we were in the Great Hall. We were all supposed to
be asleep whilst Dumbledore and Snape watched over us. Alan
Rickman and Michael Gambon were both in character, doing their
lines and then suddenly somebody farts! At first, everyone is
being professional and nobody laughs. Then it happens again. A few
ripples of laughter breakout. It happens again. And again. And
again. By this point the whole room is laughing. Alan and Michael
were still trying to do the scene but eventually even they had to
stop. Turns out someone had hidden a fart machine in one of the
sleeping bags and Alfonso Cuaron (the Director!) had the remote
control and was in hysterics behind the monitors. That was pretty
funny!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 11 (on behalf of Third Year Cine Cauldron Crisp):
In the Deathly Hallows book, your character has a pivotal role of
killing the final crucifix in the snake Nagini. How does it feel
to play a character that is so pivotal to many of the main plot
lines?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
It gives me a great sense of responsibility. I know what the books
meant to me when I read them and I imagine the films can mean the
same to people and so it's very important to get it right. Playing
a character that has such a crucial role in how the story develops
is inspiring and I'm very excited about it - I just have to make
sure I don't mess it up!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 12 is being asked by Minister Tiffani Yager.
Minister Tiffani Yager:
Question 12: Do you hang out with any of the cast when you’re not
taping for Harry Potter?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
We film at Leavesden Studios which is in Watford and most of the
cast live in London which is roughly 20-30 miles away from the
studios I think. However, I live in Leeds which is about 170 miles
away from the studio. As you can imagine, when I was younger, this
made it difficult to see the others when we weren't filming. Now
it's much easier. I can drive to their houses whenever I want,
it's still pretty far for me to go but it's always fun when I do.
I went to see Oasis in October with James and Oliver Phelps. I've
stayed at Emma Watson's house in Oxford and there's always
someone's birthday party that I try and get down for!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 13 is from the website Ron and Hermione Source who helped
advertise this interview, and is as follows:
If you have read the last Harry Potter book, are you excited to
play any of the Kick-Butt Neville moments? If so, what was your
favorite Neville moment in book 7?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Yeah, I'm sorry, I'm going to be predictable again! It's got to be
the sword swinging, snake killing bit I'm looking forward to most.
I guess that's pretty "Kick-Butt". I'm really excited about it. I
got a taste for the action side of things in Order of the Phoenix
and I can't wait to do some more!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 14 was submitted by New First Year bob smith:
Do you intend to act on a long-term basis after the Harry Potter
series is completed?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I really hope so. Acting is an industry where nothing is certain.
I have no idea what I'm going to be doing or where I'm going to be
in 5 years time. All I know right now is that it's what I want to
do. I think I'm just going to give it my best and have a real go.
If it doesn't work out, it doesn't work out! We'll see.
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 15 was submitted by Sixth Year shaiz khn. Please ask your
question shaiz.
Sixth Year shaiz khn:
Have you ever visited any of your fansites online? How did it feel
to see yourself so magnified?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Haha. It's strange! I don't know how to describe it really. It's
quite overwhelming I guess. I mean, I went to a normal school in
Leeds, there was nothing extraordinary about it and my closest
friends are normal people, students at university mostly. I don't
see myself as a big actor in movies and stuff, I try and keep
everything as normal as possible, haha. So, when I see these
websites, it's really shocking - and I mean that in a good way! It
makes me really proud and I suppose this would be a good time to
thank all the people that put the time and effort in and have
supported me in that way. It's really fantastic and I'll try and
do my best to repay the favour by keeping you entertained and I'll
try and do a good job!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 16 is from the website Books and Wands who helped promote
the interview today.
Please ask your question Rilian.
Rilian Holden:
Who would you say has been a great influence in your life and why
or what qualities do you admire about them?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I have a ton of influences. I suppose my brothers, Anthony and
Chris would be up there. Anthony was an actor before me and it was
visiting him working that gave me the idea to become one myself.
Chris works in the industry also, but behind the camera! My
parents gave me values and brought me up in such a way that I
don't think I could thank them enough for. All my friends at
school that were there before Harry Potter and are still there
today. The cast and crew at Harry Potter. Starting acting at such
a young age, I was very impressionable. I can't attribute what
I've grown into to any one person. So many people have influenced
me. I started a band last year so even Noel Gallagher is in there
somewhere and I've never met him!!
VIP Matthew Lewis: Not quite finished!
VIP Matthew Lewis:
The qualities I admire the most about the people I mentioned is
the reason they are so close to me. My family and the friends that
I consider the closest are the ones that will tell me when I'm
being an idiot! I think it's easy in this industry to think in
your mind that you are something that you're not. My friends and
family make sure that doesn't happen to me. I don't suppose
they'll ever read this but cheers!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 17 is being asked by Third Year Cine Cauldron Crisp on
behalf of Fourth Year Athene Prewett.
Please ask the question Cine.
Third Year Cine Cauldron Crisp:
What made you want to be an actor in the Harry Potter movies?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
The story. I was a fan of the books before I'd heard there was a
movie planned. It captured me instantly and when news of the movie
surfaced I had nothing else on my mind! I wanted to be a part of
it in anyway!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 18 is being asked by First Year Jonathan P-S.
Please ask your question Jonathan.
First Year Jonathan P-S:
If you could have played any other character in the Harry Potter
films, which one would you have liked to play and why?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Good question. Every time I get this question I think my answer
changes! I think today, I would choose two people. Can I say two
people? I think somebody evil would be fun because I've never done
that before - probably Lucius Malfoy. I also love making people
laugh and the character that did that the most for me was Gilderoy
Lockhart. I don't think I'd be anywhere near as good as Jason
Isaacs or Kenneth Branagh, but it would be fun to have a go!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 19 is from the Ice Cream Man (Rupert Grint) website who
helped promote the interview today.
Please ask your question Ivana.
Ivana Medic:
What is the funniest thing Rupert Grint has ever done on AND off
Harry Potter set?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
Rupert can make me laugh just by looking at me. He can be so hard
to do a scene with sometimes because when he starts to laugh,
that's it, you laugh too. It's fun though! I think on set, it's
probably in the scene when Harry and Seamus have an altercation in
the Common Room in Order of the Phoenix. Rupert had a line that
was something like "...unless you want a fist full of Weasley...."
and it was just impossible. Every time he did it, somebody
laughed. Rupert, Dan, Devon, Alfie, me. Somebody laughed and that
set everyone else off, I think they had to cut most of that scene
in the end! Off set, the funniest thing that I remember is when we
were playing darts in his dressing room. He dropped one of his
darts and it got stuck in my foot! It was pretty painful but his
face was so funny, and I couldn't help but laugh. He apologised
and I don't think he did it on purpose....I don't think. Reading
that back, it doesn't sound that funny, but believe me, we still
laugh about it today!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Question 20 was submitted by Fourth Year Isabella Johnson who is
unfortunately not here, and the question is:
Which of the Harry Potter directors did you like most and do you
approve that David Yates is going to shoot the following films as
well?
Only one more to go after this!
VIP Matthew Lewis:
I can't pick one Director as my favourite. They all brought
something different to the movies that they directed. They all had
their own ideas and take on the story and they had widely
different personalities too. I got on with them all and it was an
absolute pleasure and honour to work with every one of them. I
love working with David Yates - he is just a really nice man and
so talented. He makes sure that everybody on the set knows what
they are doing and that they have a role to play in the scene no
matter how small. His grasp of the story and how things should be
is really inspiring and I'm really looking forward to going back
to work with him. I really think he has managed to bring out the
best in me as an actor and I'm sure that my colleagues would say
the same.
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Final Question ..... Question 21, which is being asked by
Professor Kast Phoenix. Take it away Kast.
Professor Kast Phoenix:
Question 21: How strong a sense of place did you have on set? Were
the sets complete rooms or were there walls missing?
VIP Matthew Lewis:
It really depends on the particular shot. For example, The Great
Hall is a complete room, all four walls and a big, gold door at
one end. Mostly, the camera will be inside and the set won't
change. However, sometimes the Director may want to do a wider
shot or a big sweeping shot that involves putting the camera on a
huge crane. The only way to do these would involve taking one of
the walls out, so they do! That is the advantage to shooting
mostly in the studio. The sets can all be taken apart and rebuilt
to suit the preference of the Director. One set that was the
hardest to shoot on, in my opinion, was the Hall of Prophecy,
because it didn't exist! That was shot entirely on green screen
and put in afterwards using special effects. All we had to go on
was the floor layout and each other. Now that was tough!
Headmaster Harry Shires:
Alrighty!
Matthew, thank you so much for agreeing to this interview and for
staying so much longer to answer all the questions. (Matt
graciously stayed an hour longer than was originally agreed upon
to answer everyone’s questions.)
I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say thank you. I really
appreciate the time you have devoted to coming here today and it
has been an absolute pleasure having you here with us.
I would like to wish you the very best with your career and the
upcoming future.
VIP Matthew Lewis:
That's no problem at all. It's been an absolute pleasure. Thank
you to everyone who asked questions, and thanks to all the people
that bothered to come and listen to me go on and on! Ha, thanks
again, hope you all enjoy the new movie in July!
All you need is love,
Matt x
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