How did you get involved in acting?

In Elementary School, my teachers used to complain on my report cards;  "Michael needs to be less concerned with entertaining others, and more concerned with his work"  Well, now it is my work.  I think I was just born this way.

 
What has your family's response been to the movie and to its success?

They are very supportive.  The role is really racy, and at times, quite, how do I say…. Naked?  At the premier, seeing myself half-erect, in a pair of super tight undies, on a giant movie screen, sitting next to Mom and Dad was suddenly very uncomfortable.


I understand that you are also a magician, do you still perform?

I do!  Magic is always lurking beneath the surface of my work as an actor, and in life.  One time, I got out of a speeding ticket on the way home from a show by making my passenger disappear, on the side of the road.  The cops were amazed; they even taped it with their little cameras.  I always thought I'd see it some day on "COPS" or something.
 

Can you tell us a little about your role in the movie, and about the movie itself?

The film is like a gay version of American Pie.  Four High School buddies make a pact to get laid by the end of the summer.  You have Jarrod: the jock, Griff: the nerd, Nico: the flamer, and me, Andy: the All American Innocent.  I like to think of my role as a Lustful Panting and Perpetually Erect Puppy-Dog.  This isn't a coming out film. It's set in a world where being gay isn't an issue.  I think it sets a historical mark in gay filmmaking.  gay cinema can have a silly, goofy and raunchy teen comedy, just the same as we've been seeing for years in straight films like Porky's, Revenge of the Nerds, Sixteen Candles, and American Pie.

Can you tell us what it was like behind the scenes with your fellow actors (did everyone get along, etc)?

We had only 16 days to shoot this film.  We were all required to do some pretty bold scenes.  We developed, rather quickly, a tight-knit support group with the cast and crew.  We were all there for each other, keeping things safe, and, of course, funny…  The laughs were non-stop on set.  I can hardly wait for the DVD release to see some of the outtakes!

What's the most rewarding experience that you have had thus far in your career?   What has been the most challenging?

The most challenging for any beginning actor is developing the ability to roll with the punches, and the rejection, because it's constant. CONSTANT! …keeping your vision alive, and always driving forward.  It ain't easy!  The most rewarding?  I'd like to say something sappy and inspiring, but I have to tell you, winning the Best Actor Award in LA at OUTFEST for my work on this film… well that was pretty F'ing amazing!

What are your upcoming plans?  Any films in the works?

I've gotten a lot of recognition from this film so far.  Despite the film's over the top, and often vile situations, (Laughs) reviewers are talking about me being really funny and really bold.  That's the reputation I want as an actor.  You have to be fearless.  I've gotten some comedic roles on soaps, a few film offers, and I'm currently starring in the Off-Broadway comedy, "Jewtopia."  Life's pretty sweet…. Just driving forward, still rolling with rejections, and keeping my vision alive, I guess.


Anything else you would like to add?

Save the Whales?

Find Out More>>

Visit Michael on MySpace at www.myspace.com/michaelcarbonaro

View Another Gay Movie Trailer at www.anothergaymovie.com

Find Carbonaro Shorts on YouTube.com

“BOOGERS ON A TRAIN” -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YiH9R2khSg

"RICKY" -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EEq54cQ_mc

“CARBONARO AT CAROLINE” -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsZ8RF_NJTo