[Interview] Actor Gregory Diaz IV for VAMPIRES VS. THE BRONX

[Interview] Actor Gregory Diaz IV for VAMPIRES VS. THE BRONX
Courtesy of Netflix
If you’ve watched the Netflix series, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”, you probably know who Gregory Diaz IV is. Portraying Quentin on the popular series, the sky’s the limit for this talented singer, dancer, and actor. You can now see him in the horror film, VAMPIRES VS. THE BRONX and he will be appearing in the much-anticipated musical film, In The Heights, next year.

For the release of VAMPIRES VS. THE BRONX, we got the chance to chat with Gregory, where we discussed what initially drew him to the film, what he hopes audiences take away from the film, and what he hopes to tackle in his career in the future.

When you read the script for VAMPIRES VS. THE BRONX, what jumped off the page to make you want to be a part of this film?

Gregory Diaz IV: So many things jumped off the script that made me want to be a part of this project, the way they described the vampires, long sharp fangs, pale skin was forming this sick image in my head. The vibrant characters.   The fact that it takes place in the Bronx which half of my family is from, but mostly because of my character Luis. He’s a skateboarding, horror-loving nerd which is the complete opposite of myself. I was excited to take on the challenge of getting to play him.

What do you want the audience to take away from watching VAMPIRES VS. THE BRONX?

Gregory Diaz IV: I want the audience to walk away with a smile on their face. The movie is fun and you should go into it expecting to laugh. Even though it is a horror-comedy, it has important messages like staying true to who you are and always being there for your friends and family.  The Bronx is represented throughout the film and I hope it makes all New Yorkers proud.

Courtesy of Netflix

Picture this. Things stay on track and it’s June 2021 and the highly-anticipated movie, In The Heights, gets its release. What does being involved in a film of that magnitude feel like for you?

Gregory Diaz IV: Honestly it’s hard to describe the feeling. The experience was so surreal and I am deeply humbled that I was cast to portray such a great character like Sonny and work with such an amazing cast and crew.  I’m mostly excited for everyone to get to see this fantastic film in theatres and also interested to see how people will react to our adaptation of the musical.  Still hard for me to believe that I was a part of something so beautiful and that represents the Latinx community in such a positive way.

What do you feel after a good stage show compared to when you nail a good take on set? Are there differences between the two for you?  

Gregory Diaz IV: The feeling is pretty much the same between the two for me and that feeling is so rewarding. Whether I just nailed a scene on set or on stage I get this crazy adrenaline rush that lasts the whole day.  I can feel it coursing through my veins and I feel more confident in my abilities than I did before.

How has COVID-19 affected your ability to be creative? Have things been relatively the same or are you finding new and interesting ways to get those creative juices out?

Gregory Diaz IV: In all honesty, I haven’t done much over quarantine besides schoolwork and play video games, which isn’t such a bad life.  I love playing video games! But I have received a few auditions here and there that keep my creative juices flowing. Other than that it’s been relatively quiet, things are starting to pick up and I’m looking forward to going on more auditions and booking my next big role!

Courtesy of Netflix

What’s your favorite video game right now?

Gregory Diaz IV: I’ve been grinding on Modern Warfare lately trying to complete challenges to unlock Damascus before Cold War comes out in November.  Which I obviously pre-ordered.  I’ve also been enjoying Warzone because it’s a lot different from other battle royal games I usually play.

With the continued support from your family, friends, and loved ones, where do you see yourself in the next few years?

Gregory Diaz IV: I just started my sophomore year of High School so in a few years I’ll be in college while continuing to act and hopefully will have more credits under my belt.  I would love to work with other great directors like Quentin Tarantino and maybe play a Superhero in a MCU or DC movie.  I dream big so I’m excited to see what the future holds.

VAMPIRES VS THE BRONX is now available to slay you exclusively on Netflix. Make sure you get your stakes sharpened and ready to go!

Elga Roberson
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