‘Digging To Death’ star Rachel Alig says she thrives playing “a well-developed character who is complex, dynamic, and very human.”

Where did you love of acting come from?

When I was very young, probably around 6 years-old, I used to watch my father laugh wholeheartedly while watching TV. He is a criminal defense attorney and worked a lot.  So, I realized that the TV provided him laughter and an escape and I too wanted to be able to do that for him.  That kind of prompted my intrigue for acting and storytelling.

And was there a particular actor, or even a film, that spurred your decision to enter the arts?

As a little girl I knew every word to The Wizard Of Oz. I loved everything about that movie; Dorothy, her red slippers, her blue and white dress, Toto the dog, the cowardly lion, every element was so memorable and captivating. That movie really drew me into the art of imagination, storytelling, and acting.  As an adult, there were a number of movies that compelled me to enter the industry. Mulholland Drive and The Deer Hunter are two movies that will absolutely stick with me. 

I am a huge fan of Elizabeth Moss; I think she is exceptional in everything she does. I have watched all of her movies and TV shows strictly as a form of studying the craft of acting.

Did you study? Where did you cut your teeth?

I’ve studied at a few schools in Los Angeles that have been wildly beneficial to my own technique of acting. I consider Margie Haber Studios my home school and I’ve done master classes there. I’ve also been fortunate to study at Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute of West Hollywood, Ivanna Chubbuck’s, and The Groundlings.

And was there a particular role that really helped cement your career?

I was honored to work with the world renown artist Paul McCarthy for about four years making experimental films. His approach to exploring the human condition, the dark side of humanity, and the chaos that exist amongst us has by far been the most influential filmmaking experience on me personally and professionally.

Is your agent or manager finding that you’re usually contracted about playing a particular role or type?

I don’t find myself stuck in one type of role. I work in all genres including drama, comedy, horror, and thriller. My team and I definitely know my strong suites, but understand I am comfortable in all genres and roles.

What kind of characters do you like playing most?

I like any character that is a challenge. This requires a well-developed character who is complex, dynamic, and very human. A lot of that comes with exceptional writing, but it’s also my job as an actor to make sure to bring those elements to a role. I especially like taking on roles where the character is likely out of balance mentally or emotionally. I like exploring this.

Where does your role in ‘Digging To Death’ rank?

Well, the fact that Michael Blevins was directing me was enough for me to do it!

Did you develop a backstory for your character in ‘Digging’, even if it wasn’t on the page?

Backstories vary for me. I determine if I need one on a role-to-role bases. Sometimes a backstory feels necessary and sometimes I think I have the elements within the script that need to be focused upon.

Do you envision your part in ‘Digging’ as a one-off, or is there a chance the character could return?

Let’s talk to my director Michael Blevins and convince him that she should definitely return!

The film industry has been hit hard by the pandemic over the past year – how do you think the industry is going to change as a result?

As of right now, the industry is wildly busy!  Many productions that were cut short or didn’t start at all because of the pandemic are now happening – it really is in full swing.