Movies & TV / Columns

Tamas Nadas Discusses His New Comedy Short Perps

April 27, 2020 | Posted by Bryan Kristopowitz

The 411 Interview: Tamas Nadas

Tamas Nadas is a world champion martial artist, police detective (in Albuquerque, New Mexico), actor, producer, and stunt performer who has been in the movie business for a little over a decade. Originally from Budapest, Hungary, Tamas has lived in the United States since 2000 and has worked on movies like The Last Sentinel, Battle Planet, and Fierce Target (check out my review of that movie here). Tamas’s latest project is the comedy short film Perps, written and directed by Alejandro Montoya Marin, which is now available for free on YouTube. In this interview, Tamas speaks with this writer about how he got involved in Perps, working with director Alejandro Montoya Marin, and more.

Bryan Kristopowitz: How did you get involved with Perps, both as an actor and a producer?

Tamas Nadas: Alejandro Montoya Marin, John Kaler, and I had been working on ideas. Even though I am more of an action guy, they wanted me to try comedy. Since John and Kenny (Kenneth McGlothin) are amazing at doing comedy, Alejandro pushed me into the role of which I greatly appreciate now. Hahahahaha. As far as producing it- We all produced it.

BK: How would you describe your character in Perps, Tamas? Was the character’s name always Tamas?

TS: Yes, the name was always Tamas, just like John’s was John. That’s how Ale envisioned it. I think my character was a wimpy goofy stoner who felt like a champ for being able to break a board.

BK: Where was Perps filmed? How long did it take to complete?

TS: We filmed it in Albuquerque, New Mexico and it was completed in two nights. We were able to do it so quickly because of the amazing cast and crew.

BK: What was it like working with writer/director Alejandro Montoya Marin?

TS: This wasn’t the first time we worked together. We have done a feature film called Millennium Bugs and a futuristic music video (San Antonio) last year. The guy is fantastic!!! He is so talented even Robert Rodriguez likes him. I am extremely grateful for crossing paths with him.

BK: How was the cast of Perps put together?

TS: It was not a script first and then casting. The script was written specifically for the actors. Lou was the only question at the beginning.

BK: How did Lou Ferrigno get involved with Perps?

TS: Lou was part of the idea right from the beginning, but we didn’t know if we could get him or not. We sent the script to him through his agency (Presley Talent) and he loved it. From there on, it was just communication.

BK: What was the hardest part of making Perps? What was the easiest?

TS: I am sure every one of us would answer this question in a different way. For me, it was at the beginning. I have never done comedy before. Even Ale said he was worried about me up until the point I was in front of the camera.

BK: Is Perps something that can be expanded on, perhaps into a feature film, or is it meant to be a short film and that’s it?

TS: Many people asked the same question. They wanted to see more. For now, it was just a short comedy. But we are thinking about developing each character and creating either a feature or a miniseries.

BK: Any upcoming projects you can tell us about?

TS: Yes! Once we can start filming, we will go into pre-production with a horror movie called Captive. Ale will direct it and the main actors are Scout Taylor-Compton from the Halloween movies and Cody Frank. The producer is Tom Stajmiger. I cannot wait for this movie.

BK: What’s the status of Millennium Bugs?

TS: The movie has been completed. We submitted it to many film festivals, but because of the pandemic, all festivals are canceled for the moment. However, we were accepted to Dances with Films in Los Angeles.

BK: What do you hope viewers will get out of Perps? And how will people be able to see Perps?

TS: Just a good, tasty laugh. It is a funny movie. We need to smile, especially right now. People are staying home and getting agitated with not being able to do anything. Just watch the movie and laugh because I guarantee you will. Also, it’s free to watch. Here is the link.

BK: Just how many pillows were destroyed in the making of Perps?

TS: Hahahahahahahaah. Just one. But, I messed up. The first and second time I could not tear it open. That was funny. They cut the pillow and then I was able to tear it.