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Newsletter 05 (1998)
This interview is property of the DXF (German Xena Fan Club). Copying this in any way without written permission is prohibited. All rights are (c) by the DXF 1998.
Exclusive Interview with Kevin Smith (Ares)
Message from Kevin
Gidday! It always amazes me, the far reaching effect of the show(s); crossing barriers of language and culture. It's kinda cool getting feedback from Germany because apart from taking 2 years of German in high school (alas little remains) I have some German background. I am of Tongan/German descent on my mother's side. My matriarchal family name is 'Guttenbeil'. So to use the Kiwi vernacular, "You bewdy" --Cheers, Kev
Kevin, as you may know, X:WP is very popular in Germany and - so are you! How did you get the job of "Ares"?
I had played Herc's 'good' brother Iphicles in May of 1995, then went back to the theatre. I was while I was playing "Othello in Michael Hurst's production that they approached me about Ares. So when I finished the play I started work on Xena (although I had started a musical at the time so would film during the day and race off to the theatre at night)
What are in your opinion the reasons for X:WP's phenomenal success?
Obvious reasons abound such as a strong female character (and of course Lucy herself) and a dark texture due to Xena's history and ongoing inner battle to do the right thing. As with H:TLJ the episodes are very much 'modern' morality plays. It is also fun, it can be enjoyed on many levels and gives adults permission to enjoy and participate in a heightened fantasy world.
In what ways has "the God of War" changed since his first appearance in "The Reckoning"?
Apart from visual changes (longer hair, and a funky bejeweled costume) I think Ares has become more charming and funny. (In an evil Tim Curry/Alan Rickman kind of way)
In what direction would you like to see Ares develop? More drama, more humour?
While it is fun to play the comedic beats of the part, it is important that we never lose sight of the danger. It would also be good to see some more dilemma, inner conflict from old Ares.
Not many people in Germany know that you are also a musician. How would you characterize the kind of music you play and are you still active in that area?
I used to be heavily involved in the alternative rock scene when I played in bands in my distant youth. (You can ask Beth who can attest to the non-mainstream nature of my early music with a band called 'Say Yes to Apes') But now, I play for fun (and therapy) in a band that specializes in what can only be called crappy 70's music; tragic and overwrought.
Given that you are a musician, will this talent of yours ever be highlighted in X:WP?
I sing a couple of songs in the upcoming X:WP ep "The Bitter Suite:" Although beware; in one number I am forced to dance definitely my most modest talent - Wafer thin, in fact.
Are you interested in directing an episode of X:WP (as Bruce Campbell did in the third season)?
Dear me, no - I barely understand or control my acting work, why make it worse?
Are there differences between working on the Xena set and the Hercules set?
On Herc I can be plain evil because it is no secret that Ares wishes to destroy his brother . But on Xena there is always and element of seduction which is mega-fun as well. So I enjoy them both in different ways.
What is it like to work with Lucy and Renee?
I have known Lucy for 8 or 9 years. So we are really comfortable with each other. She is still very much the same Kiwi girl. (Oh did I mention she's gorgeous!!!) Renee as a person has such a good spirit. I like her a lot, we've only recently started having scenes together, but as an actor she is incredibly giving and generous.
What is the achievement you are proudest of careerwise?
I guess supporting my family through this silly profession still amazes me. I haven't been caught out yet and a certain diversification is pleasing to make ends meet at various times. I act, play in a band, work with an improv comedy theatre company and perform stand up comedy. But artistically, 'Othello' would be my high point.
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