Warren Christie talks about Syfy's new series 'Alphas'
Syfy’s new series ALPHAS invites viewers to explore a world where humans have extrasensory and other special abilities. They are not super-human, but rather, super-enhanced humans. Whether it be heightened senses, the ability to read radio waves, enhanced strength or precision marksman skills, these are just abilities we all have – but to a greater degree.
Recruited by a quasi-government agency, a small group of gifted individuals use their abilities to assist with crime-fighting. But with great skill comes a price, and because these people are human after all, life is not so easy for them. Viewed as freaks, oddities, or just plain abnormal, their only safe haven is amongst themselves. Social situations and personal relationships can be awkward or even impossible. Yet because they are special, they are also great at solving crimes that may elude normal law enforcement.
During an enthusiastic interview with Warren Christie, one of the stars of the show, one thing became abundantly clear: he is excited about his new show. Describing what drew him to ALPHAS, he was quick to respond, “It was the script and the characters. There’s an amazing element to it all.” He also really admires his character, Cameron Hicks, who is gifted with hyperkinesis, which is the ability to use muscle control so precisely that he has flawless aim and enhanced motor skills. In addition, Warren shared that he also really admired how, “[Cameron] keeps picking himself up and dusting himself off. He’s trying. He’s a recovered alcoholic who’s isolated himself. But he’s opening up. He’s a fighter."
The dual role of being so physically adept and attune while grappling with emotional stressors was appealing to Warren. He explained, “The physicality was a welcome challenge. I enjoyed it. I’ve played sports and been active my whole life. But this takes it to the next level. Emotionally, there is a lot going on. He’s in a bit of a rough place. It’s a very human show.”
As the newest recruit, Cameron is assisted by one of the other Alphas in assimilating not only into their group, but also in using his skills for the greater good. So as Warren readily admitted, his primary co-star so far has been working with Ryan Cartwright (the recently departed intern from Fox’s BONES). Ryan portrays Gary Bell, a “transducer” – one who can read or see images from radio waves. As Warren describes him, “Gary is a high-functioning autistic.” Warren also explained, “Cameron can be stand-offish, but he lets his guard down around Gary.” Perhaps due to the easy acceptance offered by Gary, Cameron and Gary fall into a tentative friendship, something that is perhaps not so easy for the other teammates to extend to the man who carries within him an edge of darkness.
Being the newest Alpha member, Cameron is not exactly looking for love yet, but as Warren teasingly revealed, “I don’t know if I can say anything. But I can say that, lately, I’ve been naked a lot on set!”
Then talking about what it was to work with David Straithairn, who portrays Dr. Lee Rosen, the Alpha’s group mentor, Warren just as happily shared, “I could sit here and sing his praises. He acts with honesty and integrity. He’s an incredible man. He’s our leader and we look up to him. And he’s very, very funny! He’s a real joy to work with. He’s everything I hoped he would be and more.”
For the most part, Warren is ecstatic with all he has been able to do on ALPHAS. The coolest thing to date for him was, “I got to run and jump onto a moving car. Then another car came by that I had to bounce off of.” Just imagining that high-adrenaline moment and the risks involved, it sounds fairly scary. Warren cheekily then added, “Luckily, I lived!”
As far as what to expect above and beyond the pilot episode, Warren invites viewers to “Tune in and give it a shot!” He then explained, “The pilot has to introduce everyone and set up the situation. It keeps getting better and better each episode. It’s really exciting and really deep.” In addition, he shared, “We have a line-up of guest starts. The sci-fi genre will be incredibly excited.” In sum, he exclaimed, “It’s fun! It’s fun shooting it. It’ll entertain the hell out of you!”
On that high and super-excited note, Warren hopes you will tune in not only for the ALPHAS premiere on Monday, July 11th at 10PM on Syfy (Space in Canada), but also every Monday thereafter. He is confident the show will surprise you and delight you as it explores the ALPHAS’ world.
Tiffany Vogt blogs at The TV Addict.
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