By Neil Abbey
In the thought-provoking sci-fi drama “Love Eternal,” Anthony Sayo brings depth and authenticity to the character of Paul, a man grappling with loss in a world of advanced technology. This exclusive interview with Anthony Sayo offers a glimpse into the making of “Love Eternal” and the actor’s personal connection to the story that has captivated audiences at the 50th Boston Sci-Fi Film Festival, the longest running and one of the most highly regarded genre film festivals in the US.
In the film, Sayo plays Paul, a widowed husband who keeps his deceased wife “alive” as a digital avatar through a VR simulation program. When asked about his initial reaction to the script, Sayo’s eyes light up with enthusiasm. “When I first read the script, I thought that the character of ‘Paul’ was easy to play with, and is easy for me to relate to,” he explains. “Paul lost his wife and simply can’t let her go. I’ve had experiences in my life where I also felt love and loss, and there were instances that I wanted to cling to a love which is no longer around.”
This personal connection to the character’s emotional journey allowed Sayo to tap into a wellspring of authentic emotion. “As artists, we feel emotions with an intensity that allows us to transform personal pain into universal storytelling,” he reflects. This approach aligns perfectly with director Dominic Czarnota’s vision of using technology as a vessel for exploring genuine human emotion in the film.
Anthony Sayo’s Approach to Portraying Grief and Loss
Sayo’s acting process for “Love Eternal” involved drawing from personal experiences of love and loss to bring authenticity to his character. The film’s exploration of grief through a digital lens offered Sayo a unique challenge. “Being a part of this project, and playing Paul – I am deeply grateful for the opportunity because this is a story where the human spirit doesn’t triumph; it is a story where the human spirit breaks,” Sayo shares.
He continues, “I think to feel defeated, to feel lost, is very human. As an actor and a storyteller, it’s important that we get to show the many facets of life, triumphs and joys, sorrows and defeats.” This commitment to portraying the full spectrum of human emotion is evident in Sayo’s nuanced performance, which has resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Collaboration and Creativity: Behind the Scenes of ‘Love Eternal’
Going behind the scenes of “Love Eternal,” Sayo reveals the collaborative process with director Dominic Czarnota that brought the film to life. “In the movie business, I always say that you are only as good as your collaborators,” Sayo emphasizes. “Working with Dominic Czarnota was a great experience. He’s a very smart person, gifted intellectually and artistically.”
Sayo appreciates Czarnota’s clear vision and directorial style. “The script was well-written, and working with him on set, he has a clear vision of how the story should flow. But at the same time, as an actor, he gave me the space to act out which is organic and true to my instincts,” he shares. This balance of structure and creative freedom allowed Sayo to fully embody the character of Paul and contribute to the film’s emotional depth.
Reflections on Acting and the Film Industry
When discussing his broader thoughts on acting and the film industry, Sayo’s passion for storytelling shines through. “My favorite movies, the ones that inspired me to be an actor, are generally movies that show the human spirit triumphing, overcoming the odds,” he says. However, he also recognizes the power of stories that explore the darker aspects of the human experience.
“The film ends on a sad note, and it reminds me that personally, as a movie fan, I was also very moved by films like Phantom of the Opera and Cinema Paradiso,” Sayo adds. “When we watch movies, it is a time in our lives when heartbreaks feel better. Because to feel pain, and to have your heart broken, or shattered to pieces — it reminds us that we are human.”
This philosophy informs Sayo’s approach to selecting roles. “In the movie business, I always try to go for roles that really resonate with me, and play characters that I can relate to. I want my performance to be authentic,” he concludes.
As our conversation winds down, Sayo shares a glimpse into his life outside of acting. “I enjoy boxing, piano, and learning Japanese swordsmanship,” he reveals, showcasing the diverse interests that contribute to his craft. With a twinkle in his eye, he adds, “My dream actor to work with is Dave Bautista. When I was growing up, my brother introduced me to the world of professional wrestling, and from then on, I was inspired by these entertainers, these storytellers.”
Anthony Sayo’s performance in “Love Eternal” is a testament to his dedication to authentic storytelling and his ability to connect deeply with complex characters. As the film continues to make waves in the festival circuit, audiences can look forward to more powerful performances from this thoughtful and passionate actor.
