Who is Adam Ambruso, and what’s most noteworthy about him?
I’m an actor and producer who is committed to doing great work. What’s most vital about me is my role as actor and producer on the soon-to-be-released film “Trafficked” starring Ashley Judd, Sean Patrick Flanery, Elizabeth Röhm, and Ann Archer.
Tell me about growing up in Houston, Texas.
I’m very happy with my Texas roots and particularly growing up in Houston. Although it was difficult growing up without a father’s influence and being raised by an overwhelmed young single mother, Houston was a tremendous place to grow up with its lush landscape, rich traditions, and southern hospitality.
What did you study at the University of Texas at Austin, and why?
I majored in accounting and business and studied drama and Spanish. I took a business degree because I at all times knew that I would be in business myself as an artist and would have other businesses too. I chose accounting because it was the most comprehensive business degree they offered and was the number one program in the country when I graduated. I studied drama knowing that it was my true passion and that it was what I planned to dedicate my life to. I love languages and plan to know a few when I leave this planet. Spanish makes the most sense, as it’s the second most spoken language in the world.
Can you believe the amount of growth Austin has experienced over the last decade?
It’s incredible but not surprising to me that Austin has grown that much over the last decade. UT is a top 10 party, academic, and athletic university. It’s the better of all worlds. When I was in college, my friends and that I all knew that we were someplace very special and perhaps even the best place in the world to live. I’ve at all times felt a little crazy because the rest of the country hasn’t caught on yet. I got the secret.
Do you come back to visit often?
I barely return to visit because I work a lot, and my family moved to Arizona, so it is my new adopted home where I spend most of my vacations. However, I plan to change it. All work and no play is bad for my work and creativity and only planes aren’t any fun.
Talking about your schedule, tell me about what got you interested in your latest film? What attracted you Traded?
That’s an interesting question. I’ve been asked that many times because of the topic. Honestly, when searching for projects, my main goal is to find great stories, but I even have a powerful desire to leave a positive mark on this world and send impactful messages through my work. However, I believe the script found you. That’s certainly the case with “Trafficked”. My production partner and mentor, Will Wallace, dropped it on my desk and asked me to look at it and see if it moved me. Well, it certainly does that and more. I’m sad and angry that such horrific and disgusting human rights violations could be happening right under our noses. I felt like I had no choice whether to make a film or not. This movie needs to be made, and I’m going to see to it.
You share dual duties in the film, executive producing and playing the role of the Texas Ranger. Is it challenging?
In the case of this film, concurrent production and acting is not a problem. By the time I was filming, the lion’s share of my production duties had been fulfilled.
What is the role of the executive producer?
The several types of producer titles are a little deceptive and can be very confusing. What they should be and what they end up being too are often very different. In this case, I enlisted the help of Truth Entertainment, which produces “The Dallas Buyers Club,” who happens to be a friend of mine. I also help with the organization of the team and the Screen Actors Guild. I secured most of the locations for the film in addition to assisted with much smaller tasks required during filming.
When you accepted the acting role of a Texas Ranger, did you find the role too complicated?
We played around with me playing a few different roles in the film. The Texas Ranger role was a controversial one, which appealed to my rebellious and combatant sides. I understand who he’s and what instantly motivates him. He’s a little tricky because I got him right away, which makes his complexities a lot easier to work out.
What do you see as your biggest challenge in bringing this character to life?
The biggest challenge is playing it simply and embodying evil rather than showing it. He’s just who he’s. Showing that dark power without being seen is the biggest challenge of this character.
What films really address the significant issue of human trafficking?
I’m unsure if I can in fact answer this question because right now, I have not really watched many other movies that deal with this topic, aside from “Taken”, which were more about kicking butt than human trafficking.
You have recently focused on writing. Tell us about this experience.
I’ve written two other treatments in the past for movies I’m still planning to make. The script I’m currently writing is a story that I have been thinking about for the past five years. It would require a hefty budget to make, but I felt it was time to put pen to paper and be done with it. This is a story I can not wait to write. I have a powerful desire to play the main character.
A change in your career – are you searching for a transition?
About five years ago, I was very unhappy with where I was in my life in many areas, and my existence as an artist and actor was a major area of dissatisfaction. It’s okay if I do not do the job and role I want. I made a decision at that point to take matters into my own hands and began creating my own project. It’s surprising how quickly the universe will provide what you need once you make a decision and draw a line in the sand. Things instantly changed.
What is it about the Los Angeles, California area that you enjoy?
I have grown to love Los Angeles for many reasons. First, it’s a city where dreams can truly come true and are lived every day. It’s so thrilling to be amongst a group of individuals who have not forgotten how to dream and experience what that energy feels like. I also love the proven fact that it’s a global city and a real melting pot of various cultures and belief systems. It’s great to be in a city with lots of developments that are growing and changing so fast every day. I actually believe it is among the greatest cities in the world.
How a couple of restaurant? Is there a place you frequently visit?
The restaurants here are some of the best in the world and have a tendency to be healthier, which is ideal for what I like. There is an incredible variety. You can find whatever you want. The sushi and Thai food here is second to none, and the vegetarian options are incredible and delicious. I often eat Sugarfish for sushi and Gratitude Café for vegan food.
What/who has proven to be your greatest inspiration, and why?
My greatest inspiration is those who aren’t afraid to jump into the arena and risk life and limb to fight for what they believe in and play the game of life with every ounce of energy in their soul. Examples are Elon Musk, Richard Branson, Arnold Scharzeneggar, Daniel Day Lewis, Steve Jobs, Ghandi, and most significantly Jesus, but there are various more. I’m inspired to leave an indelible mark on this world that somehow changes it for the better, but I’m most inspired by how this world can change me and bring out my greatest potential.