New Page 1Q) What are the recent projects that you've been working on?
A) Since shooting Paul Blart: Mall Cop, I've appeared on multiple episodes of the new FX biker show "Sons of Anarchy" and also, on the quirky comedy "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." In 2009, I have a Disney romantic comedy coming out called When in Rome and the movie Amusement, a thriller by New Line/Picturehouse that will be released in January.
Q) What can you tell us about the premise for Paul Blart: Mall Cop and about your character Veck?
A) Kevin James plays the title role of Paul Blart. He's a security guard at a mall who takes his job way too seriously. It's typical Kevin James humor where you can't help, but laugh at his misfortune. He also brings so much heart and subtlety to the role. When his shopping mall is overtaken by a gang of organized crooks, it's up to Paul Blart to save the day. I play Veck Sims, Blart's unenthusiastic trainee who also happens to have some tricks up his sleeve.
Q) What made you want to be a part of the film?
A) I've always admired Kevin James as a comedian and actor. This was such a great opportunity to be able to go head to head with such a great cast doing improv and creating a super fun movie that people of all ages can enjoy. Also, working with Adam Sandler as a producer was a no-brainer, as he has always been one of my favorites and someone who understands how to make a truly entertaining film.
Q) Where did you draw from for your portrayal?
A) I like the edgier, rougher, unpredictable characters that actors like Tim Roth, Sean Penn, John Malkovich and Gary Oldman have portrayed in their careers. You can only bring so much danger or grittiness to a PG movie, but I'd like to say that we found a fun line of being able to push the boundaries to let me fly off the handle a little!
Q) Did you find anything about the role challenging?
A) It was certainly a challenge to shoot in a working mall. We could never tell who was a background actor and who was simply shopping in the background! I also have a great transition, a nice arch, within my character that was a challenge to keep hidden from anyone who didn't know the script. Perhaps that is a little vague, but you'll just have to see the movie to find out what I mean!
Q) Was there instant cast chemistry or did it take some time to develop?
A) I had a "chemistry" audition with Kevin James before I got the role. We hit it off immediately and I knew that who ever he cast in the movie would follow suit. And they did. We all had a blast shooting and hanging in Boston.
Q) How was working with director Steve Carr?
A) Steve was really great. He always retained a fun, energetic vibe on set. Sometimes we had to shoot late nights when the mall was closed and he was always joking around, keeping everyone enthusiastic and wanting to work hard. A lot of people don't know that Steve started doing graphic design for some of the most iconic hip hop albums in history. He also directed a bunch of music videos that I loved and grew up watching.
Q) Why should viewers take the time to check out the movie?
A) It's awesome! And it's funny and I'm in it. It will take your mind off the horrendous economic lives that we live in. Too soon? Just go see it.
Q) Is there a place online where those interested can go to learn more about you?
A) They can go to http://www.keirodonnell.com.
Q) What would you like to say to your fans and supporters?
A) I'll let the movie speak for itself! Enjoy!