Starstruck by cinema since childhood and then trained on London stages, John Boyega was always meant to be an actor. Recently the “Star Wars” star also became a producer, forming the U.K. production company Upperroom Entertainment Limited. In this interview about his creative processes, John reveals how to transform into a character until you hardly recognize yourself onscreen, as well as his best philosophy for fellow working artists: navigating the biz is about “being present, consistently staying a fan of cinema...and trying to find what specifically motivates you.”

After training in multiple London theater programs, John broke into the film industry with sci-fi romp “Attack the Block,” and was launched to superstardom as Finn in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and its two sequels. He’s also appeared in “Imperial Dreams,” “Detroit,” and “Pacific Rim: Uprising,” which he produced. In “Red, White and Blue,” one of the films in Steve McQueen’s “Small Axe” anthology series now on Amazon Prime Video, John plays real-life British cop Leroy Logan.

U.K. casting specialist Hannah Williams also joins Jack to discuss all things Backstage on the other side of the pond. For info on how to get cast there, check out her guide: https://bit.ly/39Cfs0K

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Backstage has been the #1 resource for actors and talent-seekers for 60 years. In the Envelope, Backstage’s podcast, features intimate, in-depth conversations with today’s most noteworthy film, television, and theater actors and creators. This is your guide to every aspect of acting, from voiceover and commercial work to casting directors, agents, and more. Full of both know-how and inspiration, In the Envelope airs weekly to cover everything from practical advice on navigating the industry, to how your favorite projects are made, to personal stories of success and failure alike. Join host Jack Smart, Awards Editor at Backstage, for this guide on how to live the creative life from those who are doing it every day: https://bit.ly/2OMryWQ

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Special thanks to...

- Host: Jack Smart

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- Social media: Katie Minard, Alysa Cirelli

- Design: Mark Stinson, Caitlin Watkins

- Additional support: Kasey Howe, Samantha Sherlock, Benjamin Lindsay, Oriella St. Louis