Chris Ana has been acting since a young age. Initially in local theatre productions, and then in background roles in the feature films. Chris Ana has been in Longest Ride (2015) with Scott Eastwood, and Bolden (2019) with Gary Carr.
An excellent athlete, Chris has trained in Parkour, wrestling, and gymnastics. He is of American Indian heritage, and is a proud tribal member of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. Chris is the lead actor in the feature film Call Sign Romeo (2022). Where he showcased his acting, athleticism, and stunt skills, and was recognized with an IndieFEST film achievement award.
indieactivity: What acting technique do you use?
Chris Ana (CA): I attended acting classes at The Actor’s Place in Norfolk, Virginia. The basis of these classes was 80% acting technique and 20% business acumen. The classes revolved around improving audition techniques, script and character analysis, visualization of scripted outcomes, how to build emotional performances, and using eyeliner to communicate emotional intent in tight framing.
The Official Trailer for Call Sign Romeo
How did you get connected to the project? Did you have to audition? If you did, would you still have got the part?
Chris Ana (CA): I was asked to audition for this part because of my athleticism and acting background. The role required a physical skill set and wrestling knowledge. I wrestled in high school and have practised Parkour since I was a young child. For the audition I was cocky / arrogant like the character, and I went shirtless. I did a backflip off a telephone pole, a move that was ultimately incorporated into the movie.
Let’s take this project you did; how did you prepare for such a role: the cast, the physicality, the terrain, the climate, weather and the demands of the project?
Chris Ana (CA): I prepared by working on my strength and flexibility. Knowing that this role was going to require me to be prepared to use my Parkour skills, I worked with my Parkour coach daily.
As one of the cast on the project, how did this ‘choice’ work for you?
Chris Ana (CA): I was able to personally perform all of the stunts needed for the role.
How do you create the character from a script into a person?
Chris Ana (CA): A Lot of the story line was reflective of my life as a high school student and wrestler, so I was very comfortable in the role. I think I had to work hardest to show the mega confidence that was required to play the role of Chris Torres.
What part of the story challenged you when you read it? What drove you to get on the project?
Chris Ana (CA): I was not a confident high school student in life so that was where I had to work hardest to portray an over-confident, somewhat arrogant high school student/athlete.
Explain one creative choice you took on the set of this production?
Chris Ana (CA): Most of my creative choices came in the wrestling scenes. For two of the wrestling scenes, another actor and I had to choreograph our moves to convince the audience that we were in an intense, competitive wrestling match. It got pretty physical, and I think the realism came through in the movie. In another scene, after an intense conversation, we improvised a group hug because it felt right for the moment. They kept it in the film.
You’re not new to indie films. What do you enjoy about the work that keeps you working?
Chris Ana (CA): Honestly, I just love acting and being able to use my athleticism.
