Now on DVD and VOD, Buddy Hutchins stars Jamie Kennedy in the title role, a regular guy doing his best to support a wife and two kids. A recovering alcoholic, Buddy hasn’t had a drink for the better part of a year, but it turns out the only reward for his good behavior is a failing business and a cheating wife. Throw in a ruthless bounty hunter and a hot-tempered ex, and Buddy’s already short fuse is about to blow. Pushed over the edge and armed with a chainsaw, Buddy Hutchins is out for blood.
We spoke to one of the film’s supporting players, Demetrius Stear, about the film’s long journey to the screen, his early days on a TV soap opera, and the project he has lined up next.
What a journey you’ve had, Demetrius. Have to ask, how were those days on General Hospital?
It’s been a great experience with no regrets. General Hospital was a lot of fun! It’s not everyday you get to walk down the hall at work and see Rick Springfield so that was cool in itself. Soaps move fast so the days were never long and the catering was always top notch. I would have to say looking back it was probably the easiest job I’ve ever had.
As small a gig as that might have been, it would’ve been a real win for a newcomer to acting I imagine?
It was definitely a win for me. It instilled in me the confidence that I needed and momentum to build on afterwards. It also shined a light on how everything works behind the scenes and what’s expected of you. It enabled me to get my union card so I’m forever grateful for that show.
So tell us how you got involved in Buddy Hutchins?
It’s funny because I had read the script a few years back and really enjoyed it. There was talk about it being made before, but it all came down to the financing. Once it got the greenlight I got a call from Jared (Cohn) asking me if I would be interested in joining the project. The rest is history!
Did you know anyone on the film?
The shoot was an intimate cast. I have known Jared for over 10 years we go way back. Most of the cast had worked with each other at some point in other projects. It was nice to have that familiarity with each other.
How was Jamie Kennedy to work with? He’s a fairly big star… any ego there?
Jamie was really cool to work with. Down to earth, no ego, he’s all about the work. He made everything very easy for me. He’s a professional and I hope to work with him again in the future.
The film is being released on DVD and VOD. Do you believe VOD is the way of the future?
I absolutely believe that VOD is the future. It gives so much control to the consumer. You can watch what you want when you want. It provides the user with so much control and convenience and the fact that you can fast forward and rewind scenes or pause and take a break when you are binge watching makes it even better!
What’s next on your schedule?
Right now I’m gearing up for a film about a former soldier adjusting to civilian life with PTSD. I’ve also had some talks regarding a few other projects as well, but nothing in stone yet. The industry is very fluid, it changes quickly.