Photographer: Birdie Thompson | Hair and Makeup: Allison Noelle
Dana Gaier isn’t just typical 19 years old college students do internships and join sororities. She has provided voice for the Despicable Me franchise, studied Sociology and Communications at UCLA and her on-screen debut is set to be released soon. Get to know him:
- What is your favourite film from the Despicable Me franchise? Why?
I believe my favourite film in this franchise is in fact the third! That’s possibly because I like the villain. Bratt is just hysterical and I like 80s music and other references.
- Can you get in touch with Edith on a personal level?
I can certainly relate to Edith since we are both little sisters. I used to make fun of my older sister when I was little and bully her playmates with her friends. I also think that Edith has a softer side and is more protective with regards to people who mess up her family. I’m also like him in that regard.
- What was it like working with big names like Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig?
It’s absolutely crazy that I get to work with people like Steve and Kristen. I grew up watching them on The Office and on SNL. They are so talented and so humble and kind. We do not really film one another, but it is nice when we all get to see one another in between sessions or at premieres. Everyone is actually great.
- You are only 19 years old and already quite successful, what other goals would you like to attain in your career?
I love doing voiceover, but I have little sense of doing on-screen acting with an independent film I’m working on that’s coming out this summer called The Ice Cream Truck. I recently shot an episode for a television show as well. I want to do more projects on screen.
- Who is your biggest inspiration on the big screen today? Why?
Currently Brie Larson. Room is one of my favourite movies and he does a tremendous job. I believe he is very flexible and I actually admire him.
- Who is your style icon?
I’d say Sarah Jessica Parker. She at all times looks great whether she’s wearing couture or a comfy oversized t-shirt.
- Your screen debut is a horror film, The Ice Cream Truck, out next month. Was it a difficult transition to go from playing Edith to Brie?
It wasn’t a difficult transition because I felt like I had taken enough classes and worked hard enough in acting to have the ability to play a different role. I even have plenty of stage experience.
- How do you handle the commitment of being a full-time UCLA student and getting into acting?
I feel like I at all times got a plateful, even when I was young. I went to public school when I was a child when I voiced Edith and auditioned. I play sports, take guitar lessons, and perform in community theater shows. I feel like it would be strange if I did not conjure much. I actually must stay on top of my assignments, because I never know when auditions or jobs might pop up.
- You have a really busy schedule. How do you manage your time to be a “normal” student and have fun with your friends?
I’m an active member of my sorority, Gamma Phi Beta, so I ensure that I make time for friends and social life in my schedule. It’s so important to surround yourself with people you love and that I can honestly say I did that at UCLA. I love my friends.
- What advice would you give an aspiring young actress?
Remember why you like acting. It’s very easy to get entangled in this business and the fame or the rejection that comes with constant auditions. As long as you remember why you like acting, you will be fine. Also, take as many classes as you can because you won’t ever stop learning.
You can catch Dana Gaier in the Ice Cream Truck on August 18th.
