Cristos [Interview]

Today we have a great interview with a man I have been hoping to have on the site for a very long time. He has been involved with so many amazing projects, many of which we have talked about at length here at Trainwreck’d Society. Not the least of which would be our beloved film Hell Ride! He’s also had done some brilliant work as an actor in films like From Dusk Till Dawn, Desperado, Drillbit Taylor, and so many more.

And in recent years, Cristo has established himself as a man of the industry having not only starred in so many amazing projects, but also chocks up writing and producing credits. He is a fascinating person that I was so excited to learn more about. And Cristos was kind enough to take some time out of his busy schedule to do just that! He dives into some of his back catalogue and tells us what the future holds for him. So please enjoy some wonderful words from the brilliant Cristos!

When did you decide that you wanted to work in the world of film and television? What initially drew you this life?

Back in the 70’s when HBO originated, They had a some kind of Behind The Scenes episodes where they showed how films were made and how the cameras and the dollies operated and what consisted of making a feature film. I had never seen anything like that, and was very intrigued by the whole process. I started watching it every week. So, I borrowed a camcorder and began shooting and making my versions of films that I made up and wrote.

Actors and films that I was impressed with early on were Clint Eastwood in Dirty Harry and Robert De Niro in Taxi Driver. In the late 80’s I wrote, produced, and acted in a short action film that cost me a couple thousand dollars to complete.

I experienced editing in a real studio and working with other actors on the set. It was a lot of fun to say the least. For the first time, I got a small glimpse of the whole production process.  I knew it excited me, being involved in that realm especially back in Pennsylvania  where the entertainment industry wasn’t a common thing. I started taking acting class shortly after. I got my first set of headshots,  a talent agent, and started getting work in Pittsburg and New York City.

I knew that it would be a long road and a lot of work, but I wanted to be a part of that lifestyle as much as possible and make a career of it no matter what it was going to take to be in that world. I moved to LA in 1992. I felt I needed to fullfill and a dream . I finally had the opportunity to turn into a reality.

And what keeps you wanting to create in this world? What makes this world one in which you enjoy working within?

It’s not the  same reasons from when I originally started as far as acting goes. I think in the beginning, you want to just be in front of the camera , be seen, be acknowledged , prove yourself. Later I realized it’s more about wanting to express yourself  as an artist. You can get caught up in the hustle and bustle of it all, get stressed trying to survive in the this industry  and lose sight of what it’s all about . I had to step out of it for a while to catch my breath and re-evaluate it .

In the end you realize it’s an art. Its a lifestyle of being creative and expressing yourself through words , emotions and actions. It’s a passion .

One of your earliest moments on screen came in 1995 with your appearance in the classic film Desperado. And I have to say, it features one of the most gruesome leg breaking scenes I have ever seen on screen (or in real life for that matter). How was your experience working under the guise of a filmmaker like Robert Rodriguez in an amazingly well done fight scene?

Thank you for the compliment. That film and working with Robert was one if the most memorable and greatest experiences I’ve ever had in my career. Desperado was my first studio film and even though it was over twenty five years ago I still get excited when I think about it . I was very  grateful and fortunate to be a part of it .

In 2008, you appeared in our friend Larry Bishop’s film Hell Ride, alongside our other friends Laura Cayouette and Alyson Sullivan. This film has always been an absolute joy to watch, so I am curious about what it was like to work on this project? What was the set life like for you on Hell Ride?

Great set ! In the middle of the desert. Extremely cold at times and sandstorms. Very authentic the real deal as far as sets go.

I had the opportunity to use my own bike in the film , a lot of fun. It was a kicker with no electric starter. So it was an interesting experience. Trying to get it started every time  they called action, lol.

I always wanted to work on a biker film. So I finally got my chance , thanks to Larry. Everyone was great to work with I really enjoyed it. It was an honor working along side of Dennis Hopper. The man is an icon. Watching him work was truly educational. Another extremely memorable experiences!

In 2013, you manage to add the titles of producer and writer, to your resume with the crime/thriller Tunnel Vision. What inspired you to take on these roles the world of film?

I had this story in my head I wanted to tell I was passionate about making it come to life. I wanted the opportunity to create my own film and give myself the freedom to do my own thing as an actor without limitations. The majority of the time your doing other people’s projects with their ideas and concepts which is great.  I thought this time it would feel good  and be a challenge to do my own I learned a great deal from the process It made me look at films in a new light

What does the future hold for you? Anything you would like to plug to our readers?

I have a new film project I’ve written and that I’m working on. An action suspense thriller. It’s The Fast and the Furious meets the Zodiac/a biker film. I am in the process of trying to produce It and  get it made.

What was the last thing that made you smile?

I have four dogs that I rescued. One of them had puppy swimmer syndrome. A year ago and his legs didn’t work. He was paralyzed. Now he’s fine and runs like a champ. My other dogs had some major issues as well. When I watch my dogs run and play in my yard and see them happy it puts a huge smile on my face !