Difficult Battle Room Scenes
J-14 Magazine just published a great interview with Fly Molo actor, Brandon Soo Hoo. In the interview he dishes on the Ender’s Game movie. He talks about the challenges of filming those difficult battle room scenes, working with Asa Butterfield and Abigail Breslin, his love of the story and more! Read below:
J-14: How would you describe your character in ‘Ender’s Game?’ How are you like him? How are you different than him?
Brandon Soo Hoo: My character, Fly Molo, is a veteran soldier in Battle School. At first, he is introduced as Bonzo’s lackey, but he eventually comes to recognize Ender as the superior commander. I can definitely relate to Fly’s second-in-command role. A leader will always feel the majority of the pressure in a high-stakes situation, whereas the lieutenant is usually allowed to function below the radar. However, I’d say that unlike Fly, I would have a bit of trouble putting up with Bonzo. I have mild authority issues.
J-14: What was the most challenging scene for you to film? Why?
Brandon: The most difficult to film was probably the zero grav close up shots. Core body strength is the key to appearing weightless and I don’t think I had enough of it. Imagine flexing every inch of your body for five-minute intervals while wearing several layers of motorcycles attire. Now, rep that around twenty times. Now put a camera on your face, say some lines, and try not to look like you’re dying.
J-14: What drew you to this movie?
Brandon: When I was 11, my teacher gave me my own copy of ‘Ender’s Game’ (thanks, Laura). It is still among my top five favorite books of all time. It’s funny because when I was reading the book, I was thinking, “If this book is ever made into film, I hope I can work in it.” I was thinking Han Tzu, but Fly Molo works too!
J-14: What was your first impression of Abigail Breslin, Asa Butterfield, and Hailee Steinfeld?
Brandon: All three of them were quite charming individuals in their own ways. My first impression of Abby (Abigail) was that she was outgoing, witty, and easy to get along with right off the bat. I remember Hailee to be one of the most composed, sophisticated young women I’ve spoken to. When I met Asa, he seemed like the shy-brooding type, complete with flowy hair and teenage angst. But upon getting to know him better, I now recognize him as the hilarious, British, electro music fanatic that he is.
Read the full interview over at J-14 Magazine.