Movie Feature
Twilight's Judi Shekoni
Monday 14 November 2011
Since leaving Albert Square, Judi has made guest appearances in Casualty, NCIS and All of Us, as well as appearing on reality TV show, Celebrity Love Island.
Now living in Los Angeles, Judi's career is going from strength to strength. In her biggest venture to date, Judi has taken on the role of the dark and powerful Zafina from the Amazon Coven in Breaking Dawn. Laura Delaney finds out what she thinks of this amazing opportunity.
What was it like coming into the Twilight saga as a newcomer? Judi Shekoni: It was wonderful. The cast were totally there to guide us and took us in as part of the family. It was a great learning experience to watch how they interacted with fans, and learning the tricks of the trade from them. Everyone got on really well and hung out together. It was really great, it was like getting a new set of friends.
Had you seen the films or read the books before you went for the audition?
Yes, I have always been a huge fan of the books. I started to read the first book on a cruise holiday. I initially thought it was about kids in high school, but when Edward entered everything changed. I am a complete Twihard. I knew everything there was to possibly know long before I even auditioned.
Did you do any physical training for the role?
When I saw the costume I was like, 'I need to get myself in shape!' I tried a few different training methods. At one stage, I got the same personal trainer who was coaching Nicole Kidman. It was so exciting. Then I ended up taking my own time and figuring it out myself. Getting the job and actual shooting were quite far apart, so I really had time to get myself fit.
Would you like Zafina's power in real life?
The power to make anyone see want they wanted to? Of course I would love to have it! I would place myself on a beautiful island instead of being in my house. It would also be quite fun in a room of boys. I guess that's the single girl in me coming out.
What is your most memorable moment with the cast?
One of my fondest memories throughout the filming period was when we took a night off. The entire cast went to a local karaoke bar in Louisiana, and everyone was taking turns. I can't sing at all but somehow found myself being roped into singing Salt 'n' Pepa. Some of the cast were actually really good. I will treasure that memory forever.
If you could take one prop from the film what would it be? Definitely the coloured contacts! When I first put them in I couldn't stop looking at myself. There is something so hypnotic about them. I would love to wear them on a night out and see what people said. I have always worn contact lenses, so it was quite easy for me to put them in. Ironically, after I finished shooting I went and got laser eye surgery.
Team Edward or Jacob?
Most people usually don't say, but I am 100% Team Edward. He came first in the book and is such a bad boy. There is just something about him that is so captivating. It was love at first sight when I read the book.
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 is out in cinemas on Friday, November 18.
Laura Delaney
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