'PACIFIC STARS' INTERVIEW

A huge hit at Supanova 2004 in Sydney and also appearing at Gamescape 2004 along with Jay Laga'aia, we caught up with Padawan Barriss Offee (Nalini Krishan) and Outlander patron Kell Borean (Eliana Dona) last week for quick round of questions that we thought would interest you.

Nalini Krishan

Barriss Offee
Jedi Padawan - EPII & III

Eliana Dona

Kell Borean
Outlander Club - EPII

Question #1: Can you tell us a bit of your background?

I was born in Fiji, I am Indian/Nepalese (great grandparents were a combination of Nepalese and Indian).

Nalini means Lotus Flower in Indian. Or as we track down (here), in Sanskrit it means 'Lovely'. 

(see the internet is fun & educational)

I was born in Venezuela. My Father was born in Syria, and my mother  in Lebanon. We left Venezuela for Australia in 1982 when I was 9. I speak fluent Arabic since it was the main language at home for a long time and my Spanish became a little broken as it was rarely practiced. My parents also speak fluent French. So it was often very confusing to communicate!

Question #2: When did acting first interest you and 
what was your first acting experience?

I think my first acting experience would have been as early as when I was a small child, I use to act out scenes from different movies with friends in primary school. I was fascinated with acting.

I have loved acting since I was in Primary School and was always in school productions. Which lead me to perform in Theatre Productions in my high school years and throughout University . Then I became interested in Film and Television work, so I did a lot of  work as an 'Extra'. It was one of the best ways to be introduced to that medium! Always meeting interesting people, great conversations and always great food! Then I gave that up to focus on my acting.

Question #3: When did you first see Star Wars and
What was your impression of the movie?

I saw Star Wars when I was very young probably around 6-7...so I would not have understood it all...but it was one of my favourites. It was very entertaining and creative. Very mesmerizing for a child to watch.

I saw Episode IV  'A New Hope' when I was 4 years old (1977). My Dad took me and my brother to see it, and I will never forget the way the audience (including myself) got up and gave a standing ovation. Clapping and cheering. It was incredible. I always remember the beginning - The music, The stars, and the beginning of something which I felt, I would never forget. Who would have thought back then, that in 27 years time I would be part that this wondrous saga.

Question #4: Having worked with different directors, what
 was the most exciting aspect of working for George Lucas?

I have worked with (various) directors, more so on small projects, but George Lucas was very pleasant and took the time to talk to people even though it was quite hectic on set. So it was nice to see that he was down to earth and approachable.

The UNPREDICTABILITY of what came next. Although George Lucas has such incredible detail to all the characters, the backstory, and amazing eye for the littlest details, on set there is always a lot of secrecy. Which is a totally exciting experience, and adds to the mystery of the film and story itself.

Question #5: What was the most enjoyable memory of
working on set at Fox Studios?

I think the people I met and worked with, e.g.. Samuel Jackson, he was awesome, so much fun to talk to.

The fact that we were working on a such a huge production here in SYDNEY!!! It was almost surreal! Every moment on set was a great memory. I still rave about it, 4 years later!!

Question #6: Just how much security was there on set?
Did it have a big impact on the filming?

I can't remember how much security there was, but the actors were never out of a crew members site if that gives you an indication, even for small minor characters like myself.

Security was perfect, it definitely impacts on the filming. Peace of mind is vital on such big sets with so many extras

Question #7: If you could play any star wars character
(from any episode) who would it be and why?

Chewbacca or an Ewok, because they were the cutest creatures!

'Kell Borean' My character of course!!! But if I had a second choice I would definitely love to be PADME ARMIDALA, so I can wear all those amazing dresses, and be in all the (prequel) Episodes!!

Question #8: How have you been received with
international and local star wars fans?

I am very surprised at the enthusiasm and encouragement I get from fans. I wouldn't be able to do conventions meet so many people as I have if I didn't have any fans to begin with. They're great!

REALLY WELL! It is really amazing to have fans all over the world getting in touch with me for an autographed photo. The conventions in Sydney have been fantastic. I didn't realise how many fans my little role actually had. I think it is absolutely wonderful when people have a real passion for anything, I find it so inspiring. The fans are a total inspiration

Question #9: What roles do you have 
in line for the coming year?

I am heading to London where I hope to concentrate on some stage work and see whatever comes my way. In between that I have a convention in Japan and France coming up.

I am still working on a film that will be going to India at the end of the year called 'SNAKES & LADDERS' in which I have the leading role. I am currently on a MOBILE 3 Commercial and LOTTO as well. And hopefully you'll see me in EPISODE III.

Question #10: What can you say about
EP3 in 10 words or less?

Finally the trilogy completes!

Things can only get better!

A very big Thank You to both Nalini and Eliana for their time, open and friendly response to our Mousedroid reporter. We wish you both all the best in your future endeavors on the stage and screen (big & small). I am sure we all look forward to seeing these 'Pacific Stars' in Star Wars Episode III when it hits the screens in May 2005.

8th June 2004, MSE-6