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Proskater Paul Rodriguez Jr. or P-Rod is well-known in the skating world and he's hoping to translate that success into acting.
In his first leading role, the son of comedian/actor Paul Rodriguez stars in a new DVD release VICIOUS CIRCLE alongside his father and "Quinceñera's" Emily Rios. The punk love story won Best Picture at the 2008 New York International Latino Festival and centers on the forbidden romance between two teens in Venice, California. P-Rod doesn’t stray too far from his real life as RJ in VICIOUS CIRCLE, an artist and skater in love with a troubled teen singer of a punk band.
By age 14, P-Rod signed with a major sponsor, the first proskater to do so, by 16 he turned pro (2002) and in 2005 Nike signed him for his own signature shoe. This young 24 year-old professional has come a long way at an early age and is ready for a different kind of stardom. CineMovie talked to P-Rod by phone as he vacationed in Hawaii for some well-deserved time off the ramps.
You shot this film in 2006? How does it feel to finally see it released on DVD?
It's been long overdue. I'm very happy about it.
What about VICIOUS CIRCLE are you most proud about?
The fact that we were able to go to festivals and receive good feedback.
The film is heavy on music. Are musically inclined?
I can strum a few notes on a guitar. I was playing heavily before taking up skating.
Did you get a chance to play in the film?
No, I wasn’t asked to.
In the film, you get to work with your father Paul Rodriguez Sr., what was it like with him on set?
It was awesome. My pop is a true professional. He's been doing this for 30 years. I took that opportunity to see how he approached his role because at that point, I hadn't taken any acting classes so I studied the real actors around me.
 What is the best acting advice your father gave you?
He told me acting is in the eyes. The eyes are what's going to show your emotion and feelings.
Did you inherit any of your father's funny genes?
Not really. I wish! As a kid, I would go to his comedy show and laugh at his jokes but when I tried it back at school, my friends wouldn't laugh at them. I realized it was all about timing and punch lines.
Are there any actors you would like to work with?
Heck, yeah! There's lots of them. Tony Danza is one of my favorite all-time favorite actors. Also Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, and Christopher Walken - he's awesome. That would be great working with any of them.
Any plans to start your own skater-influence empire like Tony Hawk?
My own game is not in the works. It's definitely something to strive for. I’m sure that opportunity will happen. But I am in the latest Tony Hawk video game that just came out. I'm one of the characters in it. It's my third time. He always hooks me up.
You turn 25 on December 31st. Any big plans for the new year/birthday bash?
I'll be celebrating with a couple of friends in a hotel.
As 2010 approaches, what are you looking forward to in the new year?
I'm really feeling fired up right now -- really passionate and really motivated with my skateboarding. I'm looking to come in red hot on the contest circuit and really do some damage. I'm looking to stay healthy and just be the best skateboarder I can be.
With no acting projects in the coming months, P-Rod’s dedication to his sport will keep him at the top of his game which should translate into more opportunities on the big or small screen.
VICIOUS CIRCLE is now on DVD.
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