Shafer area actor-writer finds even more artistic opportunity the longer he stays in the game

Editor’s note: In recent years we have checked-in with Brett Rickaby, a Shafer area native and Chisago Lakes grad who has managed to develop a multi-faceted career in television, stage and film industries; where many have tried and failed. He also writes and, as he tells us in this piece, is also soon-to-be a producer/director on a project. Rickaby just finished a Seth MacFarlane movie and we begin with that in our Question & Answer e mail.

Q: Been hearing about a movie you are supposed to be doing, a cast-of-thousands deal, “A Million Ways to Die in the West” Is it on track for a 2014 release?

A: Yes, it has a release date of May 30, 2014. And, yes, an all star cast. You can go on Imdb.com (The Internet Movie Database) and look it up. But the movie has Amanda Seyfried from Les Misérables, Charlize Theron, Liam Neeson, Neil Patrick Harris, Giovanni Ribisi, comedienne Sarah Silverman and Seth MacFarlane starring in his first role on-camera. It is the highest profile film I've ever had the opportunity to work on. Audiences may be surprised by a few other faces that pop up on the screen that have gone unmentioned.

Q: Can you talk about your character at all? Was it a role of a lifetime or just good solid work that helped to pay the bills?

A: I will say that it's a western comedy. That I play someone who fits in that environment like a glove. Seth (who is directing the film as well) liked my work enough that he had me back an extra week to shoot some reverse footage that could have been done without me. That did mean an extra paycheck, so my family and I were definitely appreciative of that. Plus, we shot in New Mexico, which is beautiful. While not exactly the role of a lifetime, I will say that by doing this role I got to cross something off my bucket list. For those going to see it, don't be late for the beginning of the movie (wink, wink).

Q: Was there a professional role model of yours involved in this movie, and did you get to interact with him/her?

A: Well, my kids were pretty impressed I got to work beside Amanda Seyfried. My 12-year-old was not happy I didn't ask to get a picture with her. I think I got a picture of the cast chairs with our names on them next to each other. I know, creepy, right? It was nice to watch Charlize Theron work and Giovanni Ribisi is amazing! While I have respect for what I do, I'm a fan as well as an actor, sometimes I have to say something to someone when their work has affected me in some way. I did that with Giovanni. It's always a bit weird expressing your admiration for someone's work before you've kind of proven yourself. Fortunately, the next day he came up to me and was complimentary after seeing my work on the film. I have many nice things to say about Seth, but they should probably wait until after the movie has opened.

Q: The last time we communicated you continued to be into writing, and I’m wondering if you’ve been creating stuff professionally on the other side of the camera/curtain?

A: Yes, we are in the beginning stages of funding a feature film that I wrote called Mojave. The story of an alcoholic who wreaks havoc on a hapless town after his wife leaves him, lashing out at family and his community until an eccentric old man comes to the rescue. I am producing and slotted to direct. I am, however, not going to act in the film. We are hopeful to start filming next summer. We are exploring the ways to go about funding that will best suit the project which is designed to be shot on a modest budget. I was very inspired by a film I worked on called Tentacle 8 which was shot on a shoestring budget and is looking for an early 2014 release date. I am the lead in the film. How about that? My first ever! It is a challenging and timely piece about an NSA analyst who is reluctantly thrust into a position where the fate of the U.S. falls into his hands. We shot that film in 16 days of filming (the norm is around 28 for a film like that) which took phenomenal planning and preparation on their part. Folks can look for it on Video on Demand in the early months of 2014. Visit BrettRickaby.com for other news and to catch up on previous and upcoming films and TV programs go to Imdb.com (The Internet Movie Database) and type in my name.

Q: Any script activity or stage plays you want to call attention to?

A: I have numerous other projects that I'm working on. Or should I say are working on me? Film scripts, Television, an acting book, a book of short stories, a one-person play and a book of poetry. All in various stages of development. I'm reluctant to discuss the details of any until they reach a certain degree of readiness. Each, in their own way, bring me joy. I'm lucky that way. While my success is debatable I've never let my fears stand in the way of pursuing what I love.

Q: I’m thinking you are close to turning 50 years old, yes?

A: Closing in. I'm 48 (for a bit longer). Coming into my prime for on-camera character work!

Q: We all change so much from when we were youngsters-- but is there still anything you really like to do when you come back to visit the Shafer area?

A: Well, I've have a real hankering to do some fishing on the St. Croix of late. The waters of Chisago County still run through my veins. Might just be a priority next time I come back.