Actor Matthew Ludwinksi Goes Down in LA-LA Land
By TROY MAILLIS
Going Down in LA-LA Land is premiering at this year’s Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival as the coveted final night feature. Based on the novel penned by Andy Zeffer, this film explores the ups and down, and trials and tribulations of trying to make it in Hollywood. What would you do to survive and achieve your ultimate dream? Directed by Casper Andreas, the film stars Matthew Ludwinski as “Adam,” a Hollywood newbie looking to get his start in the world of lights—camera—action. We recently caught up with Matthew to talk about his starring role, the steamy sex scenes and working with Casper Andreas.
Going Down in LA-LA Land is premiering on the final night of the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Will you be in Miami for the opening? How do you feel about the film being the closing night feature?
I won’t be able to make the opening, but all of us involved with the film are excited and honored to be the closing night feature.
What did you do to prepare for your role in Going Down in LA-LA Land? Did you spend any extra time getting in tip top shape?
Of course! I’m a vain actor! Whenever I have an important acting or modeling job I always try to step it up a bit. And Carbs—I didn’t even LOOK at so much as a slice of whole wheat toast, which was difficult because during those long night shoots they sometimes had to bring in a second meal for the cast and crew at 2 a.m. and it was always something delicious and awful like “Jack in the Box” tacos and cheeseburgers. I also gave up alcohol two weeks before, and then the month of the shoot, which is what I’m going to use as my excuse for getting a little *ahem* sloppy at the wrap party.
Did you read the book by Andy Zeffer? If so, what did you think?
I knew that Casper had the rights to the book long before he cast me as the lead, so I bought and read the book before Casper had even finished the script. After reading it, I knew it was the perfect part for me. I was dying to play that role! It’s fun to imagine oneself in various tragic situations, and this particular situation involves a sexy combination of porn, prostitution and Hollywood romance. Getting to play that role let me live in that world for a bit without any of the pesky consequences.
Are there any parts of your character you identify with? Most of them. I mean, what actor wouldn’t?
My character is sort of an “everyman” actor type. He’s a young man with big dreams and not a lot of resources. I’ve certainly been there!As an actor, did you experience any similar situations as your character when getting started in the business?
Absolutely. I know what it’s like to feel objectified. I know what it’s like to feel used. I know what it’s like to feel desperate. And every actor has thought at some point about the casting couch, and has had the thought, “I wonder if it is possible to sleep my way to the top?” But really his whole journey from arriving to Hollywood bright and excited to the process of his disillusionment—I’ve experienced all of that. I think most actors have.
You show a lot of skin in the film. Do you get nervous in situations like that
?
Not really. I’m pretty comfortable with my body. In my modeling days I would often be photographed in very little clothing. I was even in “Naked Boys Singing,” so that tells you a little bit about the roles I get cast in.
How intense were the sex scenes? Were you able to let go and have fun?
I had fun in almost every scene, and I wasn’t nervous about the sex scenes. My costars were so great, and everyone was very comfortable and committed. Occasionally I would freak out and worry that my “sock” was slipping off. But it didn’t, so we’re good! The pool scene was sort of difficult logistically. I was much more nervous about the scene where I had to be drunk and dance around wildly in my underwear. But that ended up being a blast.
The film deals a lot with sex and porn. Do you have a favorite porn star?
Who says I watch porn? I’m an actor on a limited budget and I have to content myself with those free 30-second porn clips on the Internet, and those clips don’t usually credit the performers. Maybe I ought to buy some porn DVDs, you know, just to support the arts more.
What was it like working with director Casper Andreas?
Casper and I were already friendly from working together on his film, “Between Love and Goodbye,” a few years ago. I knew we liked each other and would get along. We became good friends working on this movie. It made coming to work everyday a blast! I also came to ADORE the two other leads, Allison Lane and Michael Medico. Working with people you like is such a joy. I couldn’t wait to start each day.
Do you think roles like this “type cast” you as only being able to play one certain type of character?
I hope not! I certainly don’t mind being cast as the boy-next-door, but of course I want to do other things. In case you didn’t notice, I’m a complex multi-faceted being! My character “Adam” was such a sweet little ingénue though, so I think it’d be fun to play someone really evil and diabolical next time.
What other types of roles are you looking to sink your teeth into?
Well naturally the next step in my career is to play a sexy vampire/werewolf, and then Hamlet. Maybe a sexy vampire/werewolf Hamlet – then I could retire.
Are there any directors or actors out there who you would love to work with above all others?
Jim Carey and Nicole Kidman, because I am a blend of both. So maybe they could play my parents.
What do you want the audience to take away from watching the film or following your character from beginning to end?
That I’m an awesome actor with great hair! Ha! But really I think this movie tells a great story and I just hope people enjoy it.