Jonathan Togo – Identical
Jonathan Togo – Identical
Interview by Michael Rutkowski
Independent Film Quarterly recently chatted with CSI:Miami star Jonathan Togo to discuss his transition from TV star to movie star. In 2012, Togo won Best Actor at the ITN Distribution Film and Webisode Festival for his performance in the feature film Identical. Identical follows the story of identical twins that both fall in love with the same woman, which leads to murder. Identical will be a part of the 2012 Cannes Marche du Film, courtesy of ITN Distribution, Inc. Identical is slated for a late 2012 domestic release.
Independent Film Quarterly (IFQ): CSI:Miami keeps you so busy playing Ryan Wolfe, is it nice to get away from that character and focus on something different?
Jonathan Togo (JT): It was great to try on a different character and shoot in NYC where I got my start.
IFQ: How did you first get involved in Identical?
JT: My agents sent me the script, and two auditions later I was in.
IFQ: What kind of prep did you go through to play two lead characters in
Identical?
JT: I spoke to several psychologists about people with multiple personality disorders, and spent some time with my coach talking about the most nuanced way to play twins.
IFQ: Was it emotionally straining to jump back and forth between two separate
characters?
JT: At first, but it became easier as the shooting went on. The two characters became very separate in my mind.
IFQ: What was your experience like working with Ed Asner?
JT: As incredible as I could anticipate. It’s important to note how kind and supportive he was. And how powerfully talented.
IFQ: What do you enjoy working on more, television or film, and why?
JT: They serve very different purposes. One is a marathon, the other a sprint. One is about being consistent and the other, about taking risks. They both require intense collaboration.
IFQ: What actors were inspirations to you getting into the business?
JT: Jack Lemmon, Gene Hackman and Jimmy Stewart.
IFQ: What director would you like to work with in the future?
JT: I had a small part in a film (Somebody Up There Likes Me) by director Bob Byington. I’d like to work with him again.
IFQ: What’s next for you in the feature world?
JT: I don’t know. You know of anyone looking for a guy who looks like me?