Pop Culturalist Chats with Dylan Schmid

Dylan Schmid is a fresh face in Hollywood who’s letting his performances do all the talking, and we’re definitely paying attention! He’s quickly built an impressive body of work that would rival any of today’s top leading actors, and it’s hard to believe he’s only eighteen. His credits include hit TV programs and films including Once Upon a Time, Beyond, and the newest Stephen King adaptation, 1922, a psychological thriller about a husband who conspires to murder his wife and convinces his young son to participate. He’ll next be seen reviving his role as Nick on the second season of the Hulu original, Shut Eye. The series is a dark and comedic look at the world of Los Angeles storefront psychics and the criminal organizations that run them. Pop Culturalist spoke with this emerging star who we’re expecting big things from for many years to come.

1922 Questions

PC: Tell us about 1922 and your character, Henry.
Dylan: 1922 is based on a novella by Stephen King. It’s one of his darker stories. Our film is a faithful adaptation of the book. There are lines taken directly from it. As for my character Henry, he’s easily manipulated. He’s being pulled in two different directions and worlds by his mother and father. He’s so innocent and effected by this emotional blackmail.

PC: What was it about this story that stood out to you
Dylan: I would definitely say Henry’s journey as a character, particularly where he starts and how he finishes. When I first read the script, it was beautiful; I felt like I could bring a lot to the table. As an actor, I’ve been striving for a character that I could really work on and that was Henry. I could sit down and create a mind map; I could create what he loves and create a backstory that’ll mean something. This story has an amazing arc, and I could really create this picture of who Henry is. That’s why I was so passionate about this project.

PC: Your character’s loyalty is tested by the people closest to him in his life. If you were in Henry’s shoes, would you have sided with the same person that he does by the end of the film?
Dylan: Hmm. That’s a tough question. If I lived in his shoes and in his life, maybe? I feel like his life and the time when this film takes place is so different than anything right now. So, maybe, maybe!

PC: If you had to describe Henry in five words what would they be?
Dylan: I like this one! One really, really confused kid. [laughs]

PC: You got to work alongside Thomas Jane; what did you learn from him? Did he have any words of wisdom?
Dylan: Thomas is one of the most unique actors I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. I learned a completely different side to acting from him. I’ve been lucky to have worked with Jeffrey Donovan on Shut Eye and Robert Carlyle on Once Upon a Time, and they all had different approaches. Thomas was always there; he was always in his character’s shoes. It was incredible to watch and learn from. As far as words of wisdom, they were all in his actions.

Shut Eye Questions

PC: Tell us about Shut Eye and what drew you to this project.
Dylan: When I first auditioned for the role, I was intrigued by the family’s dynamic. They love each other, but they clash a lot, and that’s because they have a ton of secrets. For my character, Nick, nothing really ends well for him. He doesn’t really have any friends, and his parents don’t tell him anything. It’s hard to see him struggle with this and all the weight he feels is on his shoulders. From my point of view, he was the love of the family, but he’s been pushed into a corner.

PC: We know you can’t say much, but if you had to summarize the second season in five words, what would they be?
Dylan: Pushed into adulthood with love.

PC: How has your character changed since we’ve last seen him?
Dylan: He’s grown up a lot and taken on more responsibilities. He’s lighter this season and finds his voice. He stands up for himself more and has more to say.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Dylan: My guilty pleasure TV show is Breaking Bad, but only because I’ve seen it a ton.

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Dylan: Probably Enemy. I love anything that Denis Villeneuve has directed. He’s a genius and I’d love to work with him in the future.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Dylan: I have a really interesting music range. It includes everyone from Otis Redding, Al Green, Ella Fitzgerald to James Blake and Travis Scott.

PC: Favorite book?
Dylan: I can’t think of one book in particular but I love astrophysics books.

PC: Favorite social media platform?
Dylan: Instagram

PC: Hidden talent?
Dylan: I like to make music.

Make sure to follow Dylan on Instagram and Twitter, and check out 1922 on Netflix today. The first season of Shut Eye is available to binge-watch on Hulu, so what are you waiting for? Season two premieres on December 6th.

Photo Credit: Kyla Hemmelgarn