(OUTview AMERICA) INTER-view: MK Chats with Teddy Chen Culver about "Eat With Me", Now Available on VOD and DVD!

(Left) Aidan Bristow, (Right) Teddy Chen Culver - Courtesy of Wolfe Video

by MK Scott

One of the Best and Original Gaysian Films to come out of the Gay Film Festivals in 2014 was Eat with Me and the Star, Teddy Chen Culver, came to Seattle last Fall, I was hoping to chat with him and I did recently now wth the Film's Release on DVD and VOD. Teddy answers questions about his Hot co-stars and working with George Takei.


MK: Teddy, I really enjoyed your film. It was a fresh take on being Gay and Asian in San Francisco, How did you get involved?

TEDDY: It all started many years back when I walked into an audition at LA Film School where I met David who cast me, Sharon Omi and Ken Narasaki in a film called "Fresh Like Strawberries", the short film that inspired "Eat with Me”. Lucky for me, David was generous enough to keep his original cast for the feature.

(Left) Teddy Chen Culver, (Right) Sharon Omi - Courtesy of Wolfe Video

MK: You got to work with the Fab, Sharon Omi, and what I love, it shows it from the Mother's perspective when her son comes out. Did you and Sharon discuss the material before hand?

TEDDY:  Sharon is an incredible talent, so natural and free on and off screen. What a gift to work with her! Sharon and I attended PFLAG meetings in Los Angeles and walked the Gay Pride Parade in West Hollywood to gain knowledge about the Parent/Child relationships in the gay community, especially in the Asian American community. Sharon and I had many discussions detailing the backstory of our characters and relationship. Like me, she's naturally curious and always welcomes new input and exploration.

George Takei - Courtesy of Wolfe Video

MK: So, the only person who could get through to her was George Takei? REALLY! You had that one scene, and I bet he was a Rock star. Did you learn anything from him?

TEDDY: George and Nicole were the only actors with their own private trailers, but George never set foot inside his trailer. Instead, he sat outside chatting it up with everyone. Of course we were enamored and he could have easily intimidated everyone, but he was so patient to entertain our swooning. He was all insight and smiles, lifting the positive energy on set. I'll never forget his impact. He's a great example for us all!

(Left) Teddy Chen Culver, (Right) Aidan Bristow - Courtesy of Wolfe Video

MK: I have ask about your gorgeous British co-star, Aiden Bristow, what was like to work with?

TEDDY: After our first rehearsal, Aiden suggested we go to Pasadena and hang out, to get more acquainted and develop a natural chemistry and ease with each other. He dove headfirst into his character and relationship. I really appreciated his commitment.

(Left) Burt Grinstead, (Right) Teddy Chen Culver - Courtesy of Wolfe Video

MK: Were you comfortable with your love scenes with Aiden (and Burt Grinstead as Austin)?

TEDDY:  Love scenes can get awkward fast, but both Aiden and Burt stepped up and made things as comfortable as possible. I was the nervous one!

MK: Teddy, What is next for you?

TEDDY: I'm playing the title character of "Lee", a hit man specializing in supernatural beings like Werewolves and Vampires in the Web Series "Unusual Targets". We just got picked up for Season 2 and our Pilot Episode will be showing at the upcoming LA Film Festival on June 11th. You can watch the Web Series here - http://www.unusualtargets.com/

MK: Thanks and Congrats on your Film! 

To see, Eat with Me on VOD or order the DVD, please go to wolfeondemand.com.