Rock Bottom Interview: Bruce Campbell

May 20, 2007
By Tim Nydell

Bruce Campbell
 

Bruce Lorne Campbell (born June 22, 1958) is an American actor, producer, writer, and director. A legendary B-Movie actor, Campbell is most famous for his starring roles in cult films like The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, Crimewave, Army of Darkness, Maniac Cop, Bubba Ho-tep, Escape From L.A. and Sundown: The Vampire in Retreat. He stars in a spoof of his B-movie cult status in the 2007 film My Name Is Bruce. He has starred in mainstream cinema as well, most notably Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Congo and McHale's Navy. Campbell has had an extensive working relationship with director Sam Raimi, starring as Ash in Raimi's Evil Dead trilogy of horror-slapstick as well as cameos in Raimi's Spider-Man series and Darkman. He is currently starring as Sam Axe in Burn Notice on the USA Network.

Related Links:
 IMDB Resume
 Official Site

 

 

 

 

 

"Bubba Nosferatu and the Curse of the She-Vampires" is due out in 2008.  What is the story behind the movie?
 
I'm actually not attached to that project any more, so I really have no idea.

I love seeing what type of character you'll play in the Spider-man movies.  Who do you want to play in Spider-man 4?
 
I don't want to be in Spidey-4 unless Mr. Raimi participates, so that's a big wait and see. I also don't get to plan who I'm gonna be in those movies, the roles just fall into place.

You've directed a few projects, is that something you're considering besides acting?
Yes, I'm considering it big time. I enjoy the process and hope to do a lot more.

Can you tell me about "My Name Is Bruce" - such as how it got developed and a little about the storyline?
 
The idea was pitched to me by Mike Richardson, of Dark Horse comics, and the writer Mark Verheiden. I liked it and we went from there.
 
It's basically the story of a small town that's having problems with a monster and they think kidnapping Bruce campbell to help them would be a good idea.

Is it hard being Bruce?  For instance, is it hard getting work because you're "THE" Bruce Campbell?
I never lack for work. Check out my new series on USA called Burn Notice. It starts June 28th at 10:00 p.m. Be there.
 
Are there plans for any more books in the near future?
No. I have to think up an idea first!
 
 I heard you did a back-flip in order to land your role on "Brisco County Jr.".....  How far have you gone to get other roles in the past?
Flipping is about it. It's acting, after all, not brain surgery, so I won't do all that much to get a part. I can usually take it or leave it.
 
I read on IMDB.com that Sam Raimi and others say that you take "the best head shot in the business".  What exactly does that mean?
Sam is just being funny, I think. I have no idea what it means either.

Do you sometimes wish you went further in your career - or are you completely satisfied with the success that you have?
I'm completely satisfied. This is a very difficult business and I've made a good living. I'm also not famous enough for people to go through my trash and that works for me.

You are seen by many people as the best B-movie star ever - does that title ever offend you?

No. I don't make up titles because they are very limiting, but paying customers can call me whatever they'd like.

©2001 - 2012 Rock Bottom