Teen actor August Maturo chatted with Digital Journal’s Markos Papadatos about his leading roles in two new films “Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog” and “Slapface.”
On being a part of “Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog,” he said, “It was the first movie I ever filmed. I was 10 years old and had just finished Girl Meets World. I was excited to try something new as an actor and do something dramatic. Shepherd is about a little boy and his dog during the Holocaust. The movie is finally being released in theaters this Memorial Day weekend and I can’t wait for everyone to finally see it. It was supposed to be released last year but got postponed because of COVID.”
He also opened up about the movie “Slapface,” which had its world premiere at the Cinequest Film Festival. “Being a part of ‘Slapface’ was a dream come true for me. After I filmed ‘The Nun,’ I told my mom I wanted to do another horror, but I wanted it to be a lead. When the offer came I was so excited,” he exclaimed.
“‘Slapface’ will be out this fall,” he said. “It’s a thriller and drama as well as a horror. And when it ends you are supposed to have questions. So I guess in that way it’s a mystery too. ‘Slapface’ definitely has a little something for everyone, no matter what kind of movies you like.”
Regarding his daily motivations as an actor, he said, “My motivation is to enjoy the whole process from start to finish, and not worry too much about booking the job. I try my best in my auditions and if I’m right for the role, it will fall into place. All my best projects have come to me, and they didn’t happen because I chased it. I think what’s meant to be is meant to be.”
On being an actor in the digital age, he said, “I actually love the way things are changing for actors. Instead of driving all day to auditions we can just tape at home and submit digitally. And being able to stream movies from your couch is great, but I also really love the big screen. Nothing beats the smell of popcorn and seeing a movie with a big group of people.”
For young and aspiring actors, he encouraged them to “never give up” on their goals. “If this is your dream then keep working on it. To become an expert at anything you have to train. You can’t wake up one day and decide to be a gymnast or a professional baseball player. It takes hard work and practice. But if you keep at it, eventually you can make it happen,” he said.
Maturo listed Mckenna Grace as his dream collaboration choice in the entertainment world. “One day, I would love to do a project with my best friend Mckenna Grace. That would be a dream,” he exclaimed.
On the title of the current chapter of his life, he responded, “My current chapter would be ‘Auggie: The teen years’.”
Regarding his future plans, he remarked, “My plans right now are to get good grades in school and finish college. And to have fun.”
To learn more about August Maturo, follow him on Instagram, and check out his IMDb page.
