Tell people you’re starring in a movie called Wet Bum, and you’ll raise a lot of eyebrows. Fortunately for actor Toronto native Craig Arnold, he can diffuse any wandering minds by also mentioning that his new film is making its debut at the world-renowned Toronto International Film Festival. Wet Bum, is actually a coming of age story starring 2014 TIFF Rising Star Julia Sarah Stone in the lead role. Arnold, who’s best known for his role on Degrassi: The Next Generation, plays Stone’s swimming instructor and love interest — the former explaining the title of the film, of course. We caught up with Arnold to find out more about the film, his top TIFF must-see movie picks, and more…
Tell us a bit about yourself. What should people know?
I’m an actor from Toronto, born and raised. I spent my teenage years training to be a musician, from the age of 13 I was playing guitar in bands in Toronto. It wasn’t until I was around 17 that I caught the acting bug and decided to change my creative route. Like 99.9% of Canadian kids, I grew up playing hockey (I’m a Leafs fan!). I’m also a relatively new vegetarian (6 months and counting!), and I have a serious love for blues and soul music.
You’re starring in Wet Bum at TIFF. That’s quite a provocative name for a movie! What is the film about and who do you play, for those who don’t already know?
Yes, very provocative name! I always get kick out of the look on people’s faces when I tell them. Interestingly enough, it’s a coming of age story about a teenage girl named Sam who learns about the darker realities of life through her relationships with an elderly man whose wife has passed away and her swimming instructor. I play Lukas, Sam’s swimming instructor, who she begins a relationship with that quickly turns dangerous.
Finish this sentence: I love TIFF because…
It gives audiences access to the most cutting edge films from across the globe in an environment that celebrates their diversity rather than their competition with one another.
What other movies are you most excited to see at TIFF 2014 and why?
Foxcatcher – Steve Carell’s portrayal of paranoid schizophrenic John Du Pont looks terrifying. I can’t wait to see him in a dark role.
Far From Men – I’m a big fan both Viggo Mortensen and Reda Kateb. The film looks like a true, gritty survival story and I’m always a fan of films that push for harsh realism.
Fires on the Plain – I can’t help but be fascinated by movies like these that offer realistic glimpses into such dark and horrific places as war zones. I’m excited to see how Shinya Tsukamoto portrays a soldier losing his mind as his regiment descends into disorder.
What other actors/directors would you be most excited to meet at TIFF and why?
I would love to meet Denzel Washington. He’s one of the greatest actors of all time and has left his unique stamp on the industry. I’m always perplexed by how he is able to create such raw, realistic characters. He’s an inspiration.
What’s your favourite Toronto restaurant and why?
Fresh. They have a wide selection of incredible vegetarian/vegan food.
What is your red carpet style?
I like to stick with the tried and true. A well-fitting suit always does the trick.
And your day-off style?
Aggressively casual.
What are three things you can’t live without?
In all honesty I don’t have much connection to my material objects — not to get too sentimental here or anything, but all I need is the people who are closest to me. Food, water, and shelter don’t hurt either I suppose.
What’s one thing most people would be surprised to know about you?
I love blues music. I’ve played the guitar since I was 13 and blues music has always had a special place in my heart. My favourites are B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. These artists are able to communicate so much through their songs. Good blues lets the listener in, it shares the artist’s pain or joy and it always comes from the heart.
Any secret hidden talents?
Nothing too crazy. I’ve been trying to work on my photography skills but I don’t think it’s at a “talent” level yet!
Go-to karaoke song?
“Informer” by Snow. Last time I did karaoke, it came on and I had no choice but to go with it. The results were both surprising and hilarious.
Where do you hope to be in five years?
I hope to be continuing my creative journey. My goal is to contribute something of value to the arts, to tell stories that I think are important. If this industry has taught me anything, it’s that as soon as you make a plan, it will go out the window. So when I think of the future, I like to keep my ideas loose and go where opportunities will allow at the given time.
Let’s get social for a moment. How do we stay up-to-date with you?
You can follow me on Twitter.