Talking with Tim

Article first published as Raja Fenske and Fernanda Romero on Pendejo on Technorati.

A couple of months back, I interviewed writer/director Jairaj Walia about Pendejo, his romantic comedy starring Danny Trejo, Raja Fenske and Fernanda Romero, while the film was in post-production. More recently, the Pendejo team granted Technorati the exclusive premiere of the film’s official trailer (featured above) along with brief interviews of Fenske and Romero. My thanks to Fenske and Romero for their time. Current plans are for Pendejo to be released in 2012.

Five Questions with Raja Fenske

Were you nervous the first day on the set, or are you too experienced to get nervous any longer?

Not so much nervous. More anxious and excited to take on the role and begin shooting. It was my first experience being the lead in a film and I loved the idea that I would be in a position to carry a film.

Which attracted you more to working on the project, the director or the script?

Initially the script drew me in. It was witty and smart. It was one of those projects that you relish the chance to be a part of. Once we began filming, I quickly became very close friends with the director Jairaj Walia.

What was it like working with Danny Trejo?

An absolute pleasure and honor. Mr. Trejo is well known for his tough exterior and the badass characters he portrays. But I was lucky enough to see a rare side of him. He’s one hell of a comedic actor with a great sense of humor. I hope we’re lucky enough to collaborate again in the future.

Can you single out a favorite scene or moment in the film?

Wow, there’s so many brilliant scenes – and I had fun with every moment – but if I had to narrow it down to only one, I’d have to say the Haunted House scene was one of my favorites to shoot. Everyone on set had such a great time making that scene happen.

What is the most challenging aspect of doing a comedy?

Doing justice to the script and story Jai created. When I read the script, it was laugh-out-loud funny. My biggest concern was making sure that when the scenes came off the page they were as funny seeing them as they were if you had read them.

Five Questions with Fernanda Romero

How quickly were you able to establish a rapport with your co-star Raja?

It was pretty easy. We had instant good energy, which made it very easy and fun.

What interested you in working on the movie?

The script and the humor in it! I really liked the story.

What was it like working with the cast?

It was drama-free and quite fun on set.

Was it hard to decide how you wanted to approach playing your character?

Not at all. When I read it, I pictured her immediately! I saw her as savvy, fun, and a little bit of a joker – but never mean.

What did you enjoy most about working with director Jairaj Walia?

Jai really listens to you and is very happy to hear your feedback. At the end of the day we are a team. And having great communication with your director is a must.