Erin Bethea

Erin Bethea told Christian Telegraph about herself and Fireproof

Fireproof is still #11 at the box office though 22 films have opened wide since its debut. The film, made by a church in GA, and marketed and distributed by Provident Films and Samuel Goldwyn Films/Sony Affirm Films, retains 80 percent of its original screens after five weeks, which is remarkable by Hollywood standards. We have asked Erin Bethea, who played the role of Catherine Holt, to answer some questions about her career, her family and the movie itself.

Why did you decide to take part in the Fireproof movie?

I grew up at Sherwood and had watched the church make various steps toward reaching the world. When they started doing movies as a way to reach people, it really touched me in a special way, since I am an actress. Fireproof was such a real story with such relatable characters, it was too good a script not to be interested in.

What do you think of the success of Fireproof? Have you expected the movie to gain so much attention?

It really has been surprising and overwhelming. I think we all hoped it would do well, and we certainly knew the message was relevant to the culture. But it's been wonderful to see just how many people have come out to support it. It's encouraging to know that so many people will support family-friends, faith-based movies!

Please, share your feelings while playing the role of Catherine Holt? Was it hard for you to understand her character?

Well, I am single and so I certainly have never been in the exact situation that Catherine finds herself in. But there were definitely aspects of her character that I was able to relate to. That's part of what I liked about her, I think almost any woman could find something about Catherine she relates to.

What was the hardest scene for you? Did you have to fight with your own feelings?

Well, I think probably one of the most difficult scenes was the scene with Caleb's apology to Catherine. It was difficult for several reasons. Catherine's state of mind and heart at that point in the film is very torn, and that can sometimes be difficult to convey. Also, it was the very first scene that Kirk and I did together. To do a scene so emotional with someone you don't know all that well yet was a bit of a struggle. But that scene has become one of my favorites in the film.

What is your impression from working together with Kirk Cameron?

I think Kirk is just wonderful in this film, better than I have ever seen him. He's definitely a man of conviction and really lives what he believes. Was this movie a challenge for you? It was in some ways. I've never really done film before, and certainly not on this level. All of my acting experience has been on stage, so that transition was probably the most difficult. It was a great learning experience.

Has Fireproof influenced your own life and in what ways?

Oh it definitely has. There are so many great lessons in the film that I continue to draw from. Things like what true love really means or being careful who you are seeking advice from. It's great stuff that applies not just to married people, but singles also!

Many churches think that Hollywood is the source of sin and depravity. As an actress what do you think about that? Is it true that Hollywood spreads immorality?

I believe that Hollywood puts out all forms of entertainment. Not all of it bad and not all of it good. The important thing to remember is that we have an influence on what gets produced in Hollywood. By supporting clean films with positive messages, Hollywood begins to make more movies along those lines. Support the kind of films you want to see more of. We have very little right to complain about things, if we do nothing to change them.

Do you have any Hollywood actors among your friends? Do you have possibilities to influence them with your faith?

I've never lived in Hollywood, so I really don't. I do like to believe that I have a positive influence on any of my friends, actors or not.

Would you like to continue your actress carrier? With what producers would you like to work in the future?

Acting is what I've wanted to do for a long time, it's the thing I'm really passionate about. I certainly hope to do more. I don't know if there are really specific producers or directors I want to work with as much as there are types of films I would love to do. Specifically, I'd love to be in an Indiana Jones or National Treasure type film. Also, what girl doesn't want to do a romantic comedy?

Among historical figures, which one would you like to play?

That's a great question, although many of them have already been played and beautifully by very talented actresses. I'd love to do anything historical though!

Who has influenced you most among Christian ministers?

My dad is definitely a role model for me. He's a pastor and I've seen him carry himself with integrity and maintain his character my whole life. He's a great man.

Erin, please, tell us how you became a Christian? Your dad is a pastor – was it hard for you to come to know Christ personally?

Not really, the main thing was my Dad wanted to make sure I really understood my decision. There comes a time in your life when you have to decided that something is true based on your own faith, not just because someone else says so.

Please, tell a little bit about your family. How do you spend your weekends and holidays?

Pretty normal. We traveled a lot, which I loved as a kid. Just pretty typical stuff. Watching movies on the weekends, having friends over, vacations at Disney World.

What are your three principles of success?

I think you have to be passionate about whatever you are doing. I think you have to keep to a standard of excellence. And surround yourself with wise people who also love you enough to always tell you the truth about yourself, whether you are going to like it or not.

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TAGS: USA Fireproof Erin Bethea Kirk Cameron Provident Films

[10/31/2008]

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