Meet Dominic Kinnaird, originally from Yorkshire, Dom is a classically trained actor who really does do his own stunts…
Why did you make the move to LA?
I absolutely love the vibe here. People seem to be filled with positivity – they believe in their dreams and that anything is possible if you work hard enough. It’s refreshing and inspiring. There is SO much opportunity here for British actors with talent.
What do you miss most about home?
That’s easy, I miss my little boy. Thats why I split my time between the UK and LA, depending on filming commitments. My son loves the toys in Walmart, we Skype most days and he loves making me walk around the store showing him toys on my camera! When I do go back home I just adore my picturesque simple village life in Buckinghamshire. My house is opposite an amazing quaint country pub and is surrounded by beautiful fields. It’s a huge adjustment being here in LA.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
I was nominated as Best Action Performer of the Year at the Action on Film Festival back in 2010. I remember I had barely enough money to make it here for the award. The Director Philippe Leone and I felt blessed just to be here. We shared a dodgy room in the cheapest seedy motel somewhere just off the freeway towards Pasadena. We didn’t really know what we were doing and we would drive to Sunset Cinema to support our film daily, often over dressed in our tuxedos. We certainly made an impression! I now rent a place in the hills with amazing, inspiring views of the Hollywood sign. It couldn’t be more different. A pool a gym, and the tuxedo now stays tucked away in the cupboard unless it’s a red carpet. I think LA is even more popular now, it seems safer, more friendly and there are so many lovely cars on the road. That’s why the homeless situation is doubly shocking, I didn’t notice that back then. Recently I went to Skid Row to help, I just couldn’t believe it. It gives life some perspective.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA you want to share with us?
Lots! Brits in LA obviously, a big thanks to you guys. I have found a manager there and made some genuine new friends. It’s the best place to get the lowdown. I also love the Bronson Caves in Griffith Park, where you walk through and suddenly you are surprised by a secret, a beautifully framed view of the legendary Hollywood sign. I also love the Franklin UCB Improv Theater. So much talent and a really fun night for only a few bucks. Once a week I also train in improv at Electric Improv at Venice beach. That has totally changed my life, funny improv, an electric scoot to Santa Monica Pier and then a visit to the frozen Yogurt shop before hitting the beach. Totally blessed.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA looking for words of wisdom, whats the best advice have you been given?
Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate. You can make your own successes if you work with others who are keen to make stuff happen. Making movies is a team effort so why not build your own team? There is opportunity to show what you can do around every corner. So much talent waiting just to be given a chance. Look for good people when you train and take classes. Also don’t just use people, network by making genuine friendships not just useful ones. The genuine connections last and word gets around if you’re so driven you can’t be trusted. Some of my biggest opportunities here have come from the most unlikely, non-film industry friends, who have hooked me up. Agents seem to need a recommendation before anything.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
Acting and stunts keep me very busy. I’ve also written an awesome action film with a heart, I’m working on a comedy with an American comedian and I have just started selling my first proper mindfulness book – ‘Bottomless Chocolate’ its about how to build a happy, positive, rich life, full of great health, wealth and success. It’s inspired by my little boy. You can find me on Imdb, Facebook, or at DomKinnaird.com.
