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Interviews
SeverusSnape.org - September 2007
Here is an exclusive interview with Alec Hopkins,
who plays young Severus Snape in the latest Harry Potter installment, which I
conducted over the summer 2007 in partnership with UniversHarryPotter.com.
Alec tells us more about himself and speaks about
the latest Harry Potter film, his experience on the set, the casting and the
Harry Potter phenomenon.
§ Presentation :
1) Can you tell us a little more about you. (birthdate, studies, family…)
My birthday is 25/05/86.
I study BSc Film Technology Production at Stafford University.
2) How would you describe yourself in 3 words ?
Laid-back, Sarcastic and a Geek.
3) What do you like to do during your free time ?
Watch films.
4) What are your tastes in music and cinema ?
I like Muse, Placebo, Tenacious D, Led Zeppelin and others.
I like all Danny Boyle films and my favourite film of all time is Shawshank
Redemption.
§ Harry Potter
1) Before getting Snape's part, did you know the Harry Potter series ? Have you read the books?
I knew of them but I preferred the films.
2) If yes, who is your favorite character ?
My favourite character is Snape, of course.
3) Could you describe the character you play?
A softer, younger, vulnerable Snape.
4) Are there similarities between you and your character ?
Yes, we both have a big nose.
5) Why do you think those books are so popular ?
They offer escapism.
§ Casting / Movie
1) Could you tell us a little more about the casting. How did you get the
part ?
Through Pete Watt, who is the director of a theatre group I used to attend. The casting were having trouble finding a Young Snape so I sent my pictures in and then I was oofered an interview and then an audition.
2) How did your friends and family react ?
Not much. They congratulated me and that was about it. No one really believed me.
3) Do people look differently at you since you have played in Harry Potter ?
No. It was such a small part and I don't really look like the character.
4) How was the atmosphere on the set ? Do you have any special anecdote you would like to share with
us ?
It was relaxed. For instance, I was sat on set watching the Untouchables with some of the crew.
5) Can you describe a typical day on the set ?
Waking up at 5am and then having make-up and prosthetics placed on my face at 5:30am. We would then film throughout the day until 5:30pm.
They were very long days but they were fun.
6) How did you prepare for the part ?
I watched the films and read the books.
7) I remember that you met with Alan Rickman. Has he given you any special advice
?
Yes, we discussed Snape's mannerisms and I got to see him act.
8) When have you seen the film for the first time ?
I saw Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix during the cast and crew screening.
9) Do you have a favorite scene ?
In the new film it has to be when Snape (Alan) hits Rupert over the head with a book.
10) Were you disappointed that your scene is short in the final cut ?
Of course. As a fan, I wished they kept it as it is in the book.
11) What are your plans for the future ? Would you like to act ?
I would like to act but I'm focusing on becoming an Editor and Director. If anyone wants me to act in their films then I would do it because I do love it so much.
And..... If you had a magical power, what would you like it to be ?
To be able to fly.
Thanks Alec for this opportunity !
- Alec Hopkins Interviews -
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