I recently had a chance to email Julie Benz some questions. She discussed what interested her in “Saw V,” the film that was recently released on DVD, her thoughts on working with Sylvester Stallone on the latest “Rambo” installment and Rita’s growth on “Dexter” among other things.
1. What appealed to you about the “Saw V” script? Have you always wanted to do horror films?
I was drawn to the script of “SAW V” because it was so intense! I had nightmares after I read it and slept with the light on. These films really hit you hard and really make you think, “What would I do” if I was put in this situation. I have always been terrified of horror films. I am such a girlie girl and get so scared watching films like “Saw,” so it is pretty ironic that I have been part of such great horror/sci-fi franchises such as “Saw,” “Dexter,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Angel.”
2. Where you actually attached at the neck to the four other actors? What was that like?
We were and it was so scary! The panic and fear you see on film was all real! I couldn’t get out of that thing fast enough. Needless to say I didn’t sleep very well during the shooting of the film.
3. You were in the latest “Rambo” installment. What was it like working with Sylvester Stallone?
It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. Mr. Stallone, as I called him, is one of the hardest working and dedicated men in the business. He is so professional and I learned so much from him. It is so great to be part of a project that brought attention and awareness to a real life genocide and horrific events that are actually taking place in our world. What you see if the film is actually happening right now in Burma. The film actually got me very involved in the US Campaign for Burma which helps bring awareness to what is happening and relief to the Burmese refugees. More info is available at: http://uscampaignforburma.org
4. As a big fan of “Dexter,” I’m curious to know your thoughts on Rita’s emotional development. At the start of the show she was just scared and afraid, now she seems more confident, self assured.
I think Rita has really grown from a damaged woman, because of her abusive relationship with Paul, into a strong and confident woman. I really feel that Dexter has shown Rita that she deserves to be loved and that she is an amazing mother and beautiful woman. She was very needy in the first season because Paul made her feel worthless, as if she was nobody on her own, but now she is independent and is standing up for herself and has become happy with herself. I love Rita. I think she has such a heart and has come along way.
5. Do you have any favorite scenes/episodes from “Dexter”?
I loved the last episode of season 3 because I loved my gorgeous wedding dress! I am such a girl!
6. Rita is now pregnant. Do you think the producers/writers will have the child exhibit signs of sociopathic tendencies?
Hopefully not while the baby is breast feeding!
7. You spent two years as Darla on the popular series “Angel.” What are your thoughts on that character?
Darla was so much fun! It was pretty special to play the most evil being that ever lived…. And then died…. And then relived…. And then died…. And then…
8. Do you have any upcoming projects outside of “Dexter” fans can expect to see you in?
I have “Punisher: War Zone” coming out on DVD soon and just wrapped shooting the “Boondock Saints” sequel titled “All Saints Day”.
9. In your spare time, what are some of your favorite hobbies?
I love to exercise and play with my dog Bamboo!
