Ask Me Anything: Kiwi actor Vinnie Bennett talks Fast & Furious

He's a Christchurch man, and he's destined for big things.

Actor Vinnie Bennett is also no stranger to our screens. He starred in Dame Whina biopic, Whina, and landed the role of a lifetime when he starred as a young Dominic Toretto in the ninth edition of the blockbuster Fast & Furious franchise.

Bennett's latest outing is Testify, a bold new drama about a family at the head of a mega-church and the lies that will tear them apart.

We spoke to Bennett about his career and what he's up to next.

You had a key role in the ninth edition of the blockbuster Fast & Furious franchise. What was that like, and how did it impact your life and career?

"It was pretty exciting, to say the least. After a long and somewhat daunting audition process, getting that close to such a big gig and actually booking it was quite a thrilling relief.

"I felt a lot of pressure to do the character of Dom Toretto justice, so I put in hours of work and study to ensure I wouldn’t let such a big franchise down. It definitely has opened up doors for me career-wise, but regarding my life, it’s still relatively the same."

After starring in that, you had a taste of Hollywood. How prepared were you for the fame and attention?

"I think I had subconsciously been preparing myself for moments like that since I was a kid, so once it came, there was definitely a moment of 'Wow, this is crazy'. There was also a sense of familiarity that came from envisioning that kind of attention for 20-plus years."

You had plans to join the police before you became an actor. Tell us about that.

"Yeah, I wanted to be a police officer when I was about 16. I had an entire plan to eventually become a detective. I even attended a week-long introductory police course in high school. However, in year 12, I decided to give drama a go (as I had been somewhat of an actor my whole life).

"From there, I knew I had to give acting all I had and see where it could take me. Funnily enough, my career has allowed me to temporarily become both a cop and a detective, so I guess I’ve been able to live out two dreams at once."

What’s at the forefront of your mind when picking roles?

"In New Zealand, it’s really hard to be a 'choosy beggar' when it comes to acting work. The industry here isn’t too big, so the work is far less constant, which adds a bit more pressure to decide which roles are right or not.

"A lot of it boils down to the script and the other creatives involved, but it’s also important to take a risk now and then if the project and story is something I believe in."

What’s your most favourite role so far?

"I always have a hard time answering this one because I’ve loved almost every role I’ve played (all for different reasons) but I think having the opportunity to play William Cooper in Whina was an honour. I consider it such an important story for not only New Zealand but the whole world to know about."

What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

"Instead of becoming a character with an imaginary life, allow yourself to be you under imaginary circumstances."

You worked with some new and young actors in Testify. Did you find yourself mentoring them or sharing advice?

"Of course. I feel like it’s my duty to relay as much advice and information as possible to any young performers who ask for it and become the person I wish I had there for me when I was a young, fresh-eyed (and easily starstruck) actor beginning my journey.

"It’s a tough career to commit to so I’m always more than happy to offer advice or share stories of my experience thus far."

Without giving too much away, what can audiences expect from Testify?

"A lot. Testify takes many risks and takes a hard look at issues that tend to get swept under the rug. I know it may strike a chord with some viewers.

"There's a great amount of respect and care for the subjects it tackles while showing the audience that sometimes you have to let go in order to move forward."

How would you describe your role in the new series?

"David is an extremely kind and caring person who always sees the better in everyone, which ironically also contributes a great deal to his weaknesses."

You've worked on TV and movie sets. How different are the experiences, and what do you find more rewarding?

"They both are practically identical. However, I think films can usually afford a lot more time each day to ensure the director gets exactly what they need — which can also mean much longer days on set.

"TV is much faster-paced and (depending on the show) can be shot all year round."

You spend a lot of time overseas — where’s home for you, and why?

"I’ve spent most of my adult life in Auckland, where I always seem to come back to, but Christchurch will forever be what I consider my hometown, whether I live there or not.

"I think the city of Christchurch contributed more than anything to the artist I am today."

Describe yourself in three words.

"Look up Virgo."

What’s next for Vinnie?

"There are a few exciting things — most I can’t talk about…yet. But right now, I’m in Australia shooting another series, which I’m sure you’ll hear about in the not-so-distant future."

Testify premieres Monday, 8 April, at 8.30pm on TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+ and continues on Tuesday.