Exclusive Interview with Lost in the West’s Fallon Smythe

Born in Las Vegas, Fallon Smythe started her career in the acting industry at the age of ten, doing voice-over work for a multitude of different projects. Over the next three years, she scored many national voice spots for radio and television. From there, she began to pursue acting, first booking short films and print jobs and then landing parts in television and film. By the time that she was fifteen, she had booked her first leading role in the series S.H.R.I.E.K. and played the character Erin in the show I Didn’t Do It.

Now, she’s playing the lead character Lisa in Nickelodeon’s highly-anticipated three-part original TV movie Lost in the West, premiering this weekend and airing over three consecutive nights. In an exclusive interview with Talk Nerdy With Us. Smythe took the time to chat about her acting idols, what it was like to film in Spain and her love for A Wrinkle in Time. Check it out below!

What inspired you to go into acting?

A friend of my mom’s had put me into an acting class just to get myself comfortable in my skin and thinking on my feet. It only took one class for me and I instantly fell in love with the craft.

Who are some of your acting idols?

Some of my acting idols are Meryl Streep, of course, Natalie Portman, Angelina Jolie and Morgan Freeman.

What appealed to you about the mini-series “Lost in the West”?

I was immediately drawn into the script because of all the adventures and the incredible writing. But when I dug a little deeper I noticed what a strong sense of female empowerment the films carry.

Did you know a lot about that time period before getting into the project?

I didn’t know much about the time period before I booked this project, but as soon as I booked it I did tons of research. I’m a huge history buff so I was googling historical architecture and people and history. It was amazing to actually feel like I was living it.

What was the audition process like?

The audition process was rather long! I went on six auditions for this project and made a few friends along the way.  I met Morgan Higgins (Texas Jane) during the audition process. She was actually auditioning for my role as Luna/Lisa before they asked her to read for Texas Jane.  You just never know how the audition process will go especially when there are so many talented people reading for the same role. I’ve learned to be flexible and be prepared for anything. Thankfully, I wasn’t asked to dance for my audition because I have two left feet! (laughs).

In what ways is Lisa like you and how is she different?

Lisa and I are similar in the sense that we both strive to do our best in school. Education is very important to me so I am always working very hard. She’s also excited for a new adventure which is very similar to me.

What was it like filming in Spain?

Filming in Spain was absolutely magical. I had never been out of the country before this and to be able to see the different culture, history, and architecture the country had to offer was truly incredible.

Do you have any funny behind-the-scenes stories that you could share from filming?

There were so many moments that we were just laughing uncontrollably on set. One of the moments that stand out to me was during a night shoot around a campfire and the whole cast was so tired that we became loopy (laughs). We started playing ridiculous songs on the banjo and dancing like crazy people! I couldn’t control my laughter.

What was it like working with the rest of the cast and crew?

The cast and crew were/are some of the best people I have ever met. The production company, Galdo Media, was based in Spain and they were so warm and loving. It’s standard to greet one another with a hug and kiss. It made me feel right at home. The films were directed by Carlos Gonzalez and he made sure the cast felt comfortable on and off set. We all clicked and got along so well, which is something you always worry about going to a new set because you never know who you’re working with. I think our chemistry really comes through in the movies. I consider myself lucky to have been a part of a great team.

What shows, books, movies, music, etc. bring out the nerd in you?

Anything having to do with poetry! I’m a huge poetry nerd and am starting a collection to see how many I can get. And “A Wrinkle In Time.” I’ve read every book in that series they’re my favorite.

 

Lost in the West begins tonight, May 28th, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on Nickelodeon, and will continue to run at that same time on Sunday, May 29th, and Monday, May 30th.