Horror-On-Sea 2018 Interview: Dani Thompson talks ‘Pumpkins’

Pumpkins is new 80’s style horror from writer and director Maria Lee Metheringham, which has been selected to play at the Horror-on-Sea Film Festival on Sunday 21st January. I got chance to ask actress Dani Thompson a few questions about her character, what makes Pumpkins stand out in the horror genre and her favourite scenes to film.

What can we expect from the film Pumpkins?

Halloween themed horror set in Rural England.

Can you tell us a bit about your character?

Pam is the landlady of the village pub. She’s a bit of an out of towner, use to dealing with rowdy Londoners, so she won’t take any nonsense.

How did you become involved in the film?

I’d almost worked with Maria a few times, we’d both been cast in a couple of projects together before that never got off the ground and we became friends so when Maria told me she had written something for me in Pumpkins, I jumped at the chance of finally working with her!

What preparation did you do for the role?

Er, I went to a lot of pubs . . .

Are there any elements of your character Pam which you feel reflect some of your own personality?

I’m quite feisty like Pam, tiny but mighty, like my chihuahua.

What makes the film Pumpkins stand out in the current horror genre?

It’s got that real British atmospheric feel, set in real English country locations, perfectly quaint.

What was your favourite scenes to film?

Apart from it being freezing, I loved filming in the forest, I do love being out in nature, I’m terrified of spiders though so every time a leaf fell on me I screamed thinking I was under arachnid attack!

Do you have any new projects which you are working on?

I have Bad Moon Rising still in edit which I wrote as well as acted in, its coming along slowly but surely. I need to get back in front of my laptop next year too as have a couple of feature film ideas I want to get written.

What advice would you give to someone who is looking to get into acting?

Work hard and have fun.

Pumpkins will be playing at the Horror-on-Sea Festival on Sunday 21st January at 8pm.
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You can find out more information on the event and to purchase tickets for the Horror-on-Sea please see the website for details:  https://www.horror-on-sea.com