Rena Owen: Interview

Interview by Clint Morris

Interview with Rena Owen
Starring in the movie Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.

New Zealand actress Rena Owen might be best known for her work in the unforgettable Once Were Warriors, but as she tells Clint Morris, her face is suddenly becoming more recognised for her ties to "Star Wars".

New Zealand native Rena Owen plays Taun We in Star Wars: Episode III

Rena Owen's co-stars, Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen, gettin' nasty

Owen left the Independents behind for a role in the pricey blockbuster Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, and had such a blast that she gladly accepted an invitation to return to the galaxy far, far, away for Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.

Granted, most Australian or New Zealand actors or actresses that took part in any of the "Star Wars" films (local actors that had roles included Jack Thompson, Graeme Blundell, Claudia Karvan, and Joel Edgerton) seem rather embarrassed by their participation in a film so light on acting-requirement and heavy on effects, but Owen was chuffed to do it: She thinks there's a lot more going on in the Star Wars movies than technical gimmickry.

"It was a lot of fun for me personally and professionally", she gushes. "When I first did Episode 2 as [the character] Taun We, I really had no idea of the world I had become a part of, let alone the fact that I would become an action figure!

"But now, with the passing of time, and having done a few Conventions, I can say I am honoured to be a part of a world that means so much to so many people around the world," she says, adding that she's now asked to be part of conventions, meeting up with fans from all over the world.

Owen says there's no difference in wearing the galactic attire of Senator Nee Alavar in Episode III to playing an abused wife in a small film like Warriors. "There is really no difference in the acting process whether it is a big budget or a small one. The mechanics of the craft are the same and I do like to give my best to every role I play.

"The really major difference between a big and small film is in the size of the crew and security, which of course on Star Wars was enormous. And whether you're working with George Lucas or a first time director, I believe in treating all the same and with respect.

"Ultimately, an actor is there to serve the director's vision and I aspire to keeping my focus on doing a good job."

Owen says that "The most obvious difference is high art, low budget films feed and fill the soul, whereas big budget films fatten the wallet. But both have their place and neither is better then the other. As an actor I aim to learn and grow through all creative journeys and I do like to do a little of everything and keep it diverse. My ultimate project is high art with a big budget!" she laughs.

Director George Lucas believes Revenge of the Sith is the darkest of the series - and Owen agrees. "I thought Episode II was better then Episode I, and I believe Episode III will be 'da bomb'! I've so much respect for George Lucas, a genius and a gentleman. He's a privilege and pleasure to work with."

Lucas has created a film series that's got an important underlying message, says Owen, and that's part of the reason she's enjoyed being a part of the series.

"My humble opinion is that the essence of "Star Wars" epitomises the essence of being human and our struggle as a species, between the light and the dark side within each of us.

"We all want to be in tune with the Force, God. In simple terminology, it is an old fashion, good versus evil, action love story, in space! "Star Wars" has given our imaginations a place to go where we can all be a good Jedi hero or explore the darkness of Darth Vader. For many, it has given them hope.

"For me, Yoda is my favourite character, oh to be Yoda for a day! Also when it first came out, it was so ahead of its time. Its advanced technology and special effects have captured many. George Lucas is a visionary with a capital V."

Rena Owen in Once Were Warriors

Owen will next be seen in another dark sequel, The Crow: Wicked Prayer, co-starring Edward Furlong and David Boreanaz. The studio has decided to release it direct to DVD, but Owen says she can't let such decisions affect her.

"As an actor you can't be invested in the outcome, as you have no control over that aspect of the film making process. You go in and do your bit, and move on. Some films are hits and some are misses. I am disappointed for the director, Lance Mungia and producer, Jeff Most, who worked so hard and put so much of themselves into the project. I personally believe the film deserved a cinematic release, but them's the breaks!", she says.

"I shot my scenes in July 2003 in Salt Lake City, Utah. A great crew to work with rocked with the director, Lance Mungia, and had a blast with Eddie (Furlong). I will never forget looking into Eddie's deep, deep eyes. Such a talented young man, I thought he made for an awesome 'Crow' with sensitivity.

"And who better to play the Devil than the Angel himself, David Boreanaz. I will forever be a fan of David's. In my eyes he is the epitome of a true leading man who should be doing films back to back. He is so easy to work with, generous as an actor, and a very kind, decent human being."

She's been in a great string of international films since she caught out attention in Once Were Warriors, and says she'd never have got where she is without the acclaimed Kiwi drama. But despite all the offers she primarily got from the film, not everything worked out.

"I did get many offers, and I chose a film that was to be shot in Australia. The shooting date changed half a dozen times in a year, meanwhile, I'm turning down good work, to save myself for the project, which eventually lost its budget and never got made! I learnt then, that one can only take a project for granted once you're on set and hear the director say, "Action". It is a common occurrence in this industry, to have films delayed, canned, and then some do get made and never get seen. I've learnt to say 'yes' to good work when it is offered and the future is always uncertain."

What is certain is that Owen's ties to the "Star Wars" universe don't start and end with the two recent prequel movies. She's hankering to take part in the recently announced Star Wars TV spin-off and has also been working on Star Wars video games. "I have been doing voice over work for the new game, Republic Commando."

Whether it's in this galaxy or another - Rena Owen's making quite a name for herself.

Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith opens on Thursday May 19th, 2005.

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