By Carol S. Rothchild
Canadian actor Alex Ferris has appeared in more than fifteen films, fourteen TV shows, and has earned two Young Artists Award nominations. His latest movie, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, is guaranteed to get you laughing...
Tell us about Diary of a Wimpy Kid — what makes it so funny?
I think that the books and scripts are so well written that it is hard not to laugh. Everyone who has been to school, or is currently in school, will find the movie hilarious — simply because the characters are so well stereotyped that we can all find similarities between the characters and people we know.
You play the part of Collin — a conservative, friendly boy who is always 'dressed to the nines.' Can you relate to him? How are you alike — and/or different?
My first day on set, I was immediately struck by one similarity; the way I dress is not that different from Collin. He's preppier than I am, but we both like clothes. On the other hand, Collin and I are quite different. For a lot of the movie, Collin is undermining Rowley's relationship with Greg. I do not think I would ever do such a thing.
What was it like behind-the-scenes?
Being on set was a fantastic experience. Diary of a Wimpy Kid is one of my favorites out of all the projects I have worked on. This is because almost all of the characters are around my age in this movie. Usually, most of the actors in a movie are older than me, so it was great working with so many kids. Another fun aspect was that most of the kid cast came from different places — Fregley was from Alabama, Rowley was from Rhode Island, Greg from California, and Chirag from Washington State.
What was the most difficult thing about making this movie?
Living up to people's expectations — when people love a book as much as this one, you worry about comparisons.
What was the best part?
Since there were so many kids in the movie, the set was extremely kid friendly. For instance, one day a producer brought Nerf guns onto the set for us to play with. It was a blast. Also, the items on the lunch menu were more kid friendly than usual. Instead of heavy dinner type meals, we'd get burgers.
What will you never forget?
I will never forget working with such fantastic actors. We had a really fun time. One day I hope to work with them again.
Were there any laugh attacks while filming?
Yes! In the movie, Westmore Middle School hosts a Mother-Son Dance. When Rowley's mother hears her favorite song, she takes Rowley to the dance floor. When we filmed this scene, I was blown away by how intricate and hilarious the dance was! Judging by the overall reaction, so was the rest of the crew. It was one of the funniest scenes I have ever filmed.
Why will people be able to relate to this movie?
In every school there seem to be jocks, nerds, mean kids, lonely kids, and kids desperate to be popular. This movie pokes fun at them all.
What grade are you in?
I am in seventh grade. In Canada that means that I start high school next year.
Do you like school?
Yes — I enjoy seeing my friends and learning new things. I cannot wait for high school next year.
What's your favorite subject?
My favorite subject is history. Ancient civilizations fascinate me.
What's your least favorite subject?
My least favorite subject is math. It is the only subject that I do not find interesting.
Are you very involved at your school, and is it difficult to juggle school with an acting career?
I am very involved in school. I am currently student council president, and I MC various school events like the air band and the Christmas concert. Juggling school with acting is definitely difficult, but with supportive teachers and friends I have been able to pull it off.
Do you play sports?
Yes — golf, tennis, soccer, rugby, and baseball.
What is something that people might be surprised to learn about you?
When I was in second grade, I was doing really well in school. The school gave me a few tests, and they said that I had the ability to memorize like someone in the ninth grade! I think that's why I like school — because it is easy for me to recall things that I learn. Sadly, it doesn't help me with math!
What are your hobbies?
I like making videos with my friends.
What is something you are dying to try?
Scuba diving — that would be incredible!
What is one thing you really cannot stand?
The taste of cheese — it is a weird pet peeve that I developed when I was young.
Why is the ostrich your favorite animal?
When I was really young, I remember going to the zoo and seeing the ostriches. At the time, they were the most exotic animals I had ever seen. I couldn't believe how big and fast they were.
What's next on the horizon for you?
I have been auditioning for lots of things — so, I have to wait and see what happens. In a few weeks, I'll be going to the Young Artists Awards. I am really fortunate to be nominated in two categories!
What do you see yourself doing in ten years?
In ten years, I would still like to be acting, but there are also other things I want to do. Getting a university degree is at the top of my list.
