José Alvarez has completed a comedy pilot, BKS1 Radio about a radio station on the verge of going under in which his characters name was Jay. In the feature Changing the Game, his characters name was Bass. Another feature film, Sacred Game, in which José played two characters, can now be seen on Netflix®. The next feature he was in which he played the character of Frankie, was The Ride of Tom and Valkyrie. Jose can also be seen in a national television commercial.
José is currently in production with two web series’. The first is Screwed. His character, Jesus, is dragged into an uncomfortable situation. This production is directed by Stefanie Sparks. The second is Death’s Door in which his character is a corrupt politician. This production is directed by Ben Schaeffer. He also has a couple of feature films in pre-production. One of these is the anticipated comedy Miami or Bust which is about three friends who wage on who can make it to Miami in 24 hours. This will begin Summer 2011 and is directed by Chris DePierro. The second is about the music explosion in the 1970/1980’s about Asbury Park, NJ. The title of this film is Asbury Park USA which is slated for production Fall 2011 and is directed by Sean Guess.
indieactivity: Did you study acting?
Jose Alvarez (JA): Yes I did. I did study acting in several community theatres in The New York, New Jersey area. I studied at the Stella Adler Conservatory for two years. Stella Adler’s technique is based on the combination of pragmatic and the imagination.
What acting technique do you use?
Jose Alvarez (JA): The technique that I uses is a combination of my imagination and my personal exterior. I have learned to understand the written words of the director and writer. I try to reveal the secrets and the ideas and bring the message to the screen.
What wrong impressions do actors hold about acting?
Jose Alvarez (JA): You have a percentage of actors, to no fault of their own, they just deliver lines. Late, if they continue with the craft, they realize that each word, each sentence, has a message to convey to the audience. So, they start to study the craft. We as actors must translate what is on paper to a visual using out tools body, mind, and imagination to create that imaginary work for the audience. Take them on a ride if you will, it’s not easy. It’s hard, emotional, discovery work.
Do you take courses to improve your craft?
Jose Alvarez (JA): Yes, I try to between projects take classes to fine tune my own processes that I have developed. I will always take time for courses because I always learn something new. I have had the pleasure of working with directors that have steered me in the right direction. No pun intended. I also watch my children, how they create and believe in the moment. I also go back to my Stella Adler’s books.
