BEYOND THE ONIROS FILM AWARDS®
Interview with Gail Payne, actress in ‘Outlawz 3: The Onna Bugeisha’
by OFA Team
1. Hi Gail! Outlawz the series has been recently named a Finalist in the category Best Trailer at the Oniros Film Awards. Could you tell us more about this project?
Outlawz is a short indie martial arts film by Black Phoenix Productions, shot in Brooklyn, NY. I play LINA.
2. Tell us a bit about your background. When did you decide you wanted to work in the film industry?
I moved to New York in 2018 from Indianapolis, Indiana, to study acting full-time after working in marketing, public relations and fundraising for nearly 20 years. I had performed as a singer, self-producing and performing in solo shows on the side. After I performed one of my shows at 54 Below in Manhattan in 2017, I knew it was now or never. It was time to follow my dreams! I studied acting at the Neighborhood Playhouse as well as with several independent coaches and studios in New York, including Bob Krakower and Jess Cummings for film and tv. Outlawz 2 came at a perfect time – soon after the pandemic – and I was grateful for the opportunity to work on such an interesting project and play a villain!
3. How was it to work with the director Khem Benu and the production? Was this your first time working with them?
Yes, Outlawz 2 was my first time working with Khem Benu and this team. They are all very thoughtful and passionate about filmmaking.
Gail Payne and the official poster of ‘Outlawz 3: The Onna Bugeisha’ – www.gailpayne.com
4. Can you tell us more about the team and cast involved in the production?
The team and cast are wonderful people. It was fun to get to know everyone – several of whom I still keep in touch with today. The best part of filmmaking, especially in such a big city, is building a community of friends and collaborators.
5. Do you have any on set stories you would like to share?
We rehearsed my final fight sequence so many times! By the time we shot it, it was the end of another long overnight and nearly 5 a.m. I could not stop laughing! I think I was deliriously tired! Makes it hard to be a badass, killer in that state.
6. What keeps you inspired to continue working as an actor?
Getting to know other actors, writers, producers, filmmakers who are passionate about storytelling and pursuing their dreams keeps me inspired as a working actor. Being in person together to create art is more valuable than ever and something I will never take for granted again.
7. Do you have a dream project or someone you would like to work with one day?
I’ve been working on a script for a film or series and I would love to at least start with a short film. As an actor, I would love to work with Adam McKay someday. I love his brand of humor and storytelling.
8. What’s next for you? What are you working on right now?
Besides writing my own script, I am part of a new theatre and film production company called Divine Riot, and I’m playing a lead in a new musical in development – “Juliet, Naked,” based on a book by Nick Hornby. I also starred in a short film, “Affliction” that I’m hoping will hit film festivals soon.
