Chantel Riley Race Interview

Chantel Riley Race Interview

Cast: Chantel Riley
Director: Stephen Hopkins, Stephan James, Jason Sudeikis, Eli Goree
Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport
Rated: PG

Synopsis: Based on the incredible true story of Jesse Owens, the legendary athletic superstar whose quest to become the greatest track and field athlete in history thrusts him onto the world stage of the 1936 Olympics, where he faces off against Adolf Hitler's vision of Aryan supremacy. 'Race" is an enthralling film about courage, determination, tolerance, and friendship, and an inspiring drama about one man's fight to become an Olympic legend. Stars Jeremy Irons, Chantel Riley, Jason Sueidkis, William Hurt.

Race
Release Date: February 19th, 2016

Interview with Chantel Riley

Chantel made her Broadway debut in 2012 as Nala in the long running smash The Lion King. The Canadian-born actress moved to Broadway after performing the role of Nala in The Lion King in Germany.

Question: Why did you decide to audition for Race?

Chantel Riley: I wanted to give myself a chance to be a part of a film that would tell an incredible story.

Question: What do you hope audiences take from the film?

Chantel Riley: I hope that after watching this film people will be inspired to persevere through the challenges that they may face while going after their dreams.


Question: Where you aware of Jesse Owens' story?

Chantel Riley: I knew who Jesse was but didn't know the full detail of his accomplishments and struggle.


Question: What research did you do before casting?

Chantel Riley: I made sure to take the time and find stories online about Jesse. I wanted to know his story and how he became a part of history.


Question: Can you talk about the difficulties of acting in a film based in 1936?

Chantel Riley: The time period wasn't much of a difficulty for me. In fact I love period pieces. The costumes and set are always so intriguing to me. It's very exciting.


Question: How would you describe your character, Quincella Nickerson?
Chantel Riley: From what information I was able to find about Quincella, it was said that she was a socialite. She lived in Los Angeles and was wealthy. She went to parties with Jesse that would host celebrities and important dignitaries.


Question: Are you able to relate to your character, in any way?

Chantel Riley: A part from the love of wearing beautiful clothes everyday, not really…lol but I did have a lot of fun pretending.


Question: What was it like working with Stephen Hopkins?

Chantel Riley: It was great working with Stephen. He really knew how to get what he wanted out of me. He was kind and funny too. I hope to work with him again soon.


Question: What did you learn from working with Jason Sudeikis?

Chantel Riley: Working with Jason was great. He was very funny and chill to be around


Question: What's next, for you?

Chantel Riley: I am continuing my role as Nala on Broadway, but am looking forward to doing more work in film.

Interview by Brooke Hunter