MADISON LAWLOR & ORION SMITH

Q&A: Madison Lawlor

GN: The Conjuring universe has such a devoted fan base. How did you approach stepping into a world with so much history and expectation around it?

ML: With a lot of love, care and hard work! It was massively important to me, in stepping into a role that fans are already familiar with, to do young Lorraine justice. 

GN: Horror often demands both vulnerability and fearlessness. What was the most surprising thing you learned about yourself while filming The Conjuring?

ML: I think it's interesting to see how far you can push yourself and all of the different places you can go. I learned that I can really trust myself and I have the tools that I need. 

GN: Behind the scares, these films are very collaborative. Can you share a moment with the cast or crew that really shaped your experience on set?

ML: There was a scene we filmed on location in a narrow hallway of an old building. There were a lot of spatial constraints and the scene was fast, intense and high stakes but it really felt like we were weathering the storm together. It was one of my favorite moments to film. 

GN: Many actors say working in horror sharpens their craft in unexpected ways. How has your time on The Conjuring influenced the way you approach future roles?

ML: The wonderful thing about horror is the stakes are high and everything is an eleven. You really can't hold back, it doesn't work if you do, so there's a freedom in letting go and just releasing and being as raw as possible. It's remarkably vulnerable, and getting in touch with that is a beautiful thing.

GN: Looking beyond horror, what kind of characters or stories are you most eager to explore as your career unfolds?

ML: There are so many stories, genres and worlds that I would absolutely love to be immersed in. Always been a childhood dream to be a spy though. 

GN: What does the term Goodnight mean to you?

ML: As much as it's an ending, it's a beginning. The slate starts clean tomorrow.

Q&A: Orion Smith

GN: The Conjuring has become a cornerstone of modern horror. What drew you to be part of the project, and how did you prepare for stepping into such a chilling universe?

OS: I have always been a fan of The Conjuring universe, so when I saw that I had an audition for the next movie I immediately called off work and began prepping for it. After I was cast in the role I spent a lot of time trying to get into Ed Warrens mindset. I would do the rosary, and study paranormal cases. I also spent a lot of time rewatching the movies and studying Patrick's portrayal of Ed.

GN: Horror roles often demand a unique kind of emotional and physical intensity. What was the most challenging moment for you on set, and how did you push through it?

OS: There were a lot of challenging moments on set. Specifically shooting the final sequence, over a couple of days, took a lot of effort. I made it through by taking long baths at the end of every shoot day just to let all of the stress go and reset for the next day. 

GN: Fans often say the best horror performances feel “too real.” How do you balance immersing yourself in those dark storylines while still protecting your own energy and mental health?

OS: It can absolutely be overwhelming. There were some aspects of the shoot that stayed with me for months after filming. The stakes are so high and that can be difficult to navigate. I think it is important to keep the acting life separate from your real life in order to strike a balance. I was able to get through it by investing time with all of the amazing people around me.

GN: Looking back, is there a particular scene or behind-the-scenes memory from The Conjuring that stands out as especially meaningful or transformative for you as an actor?

OS: There was a moment when we were shooting a close up of me and the camera battery wasn't operating right. Because of that we had to break for lunch. I was like 'uh oh' because I just had to hold onto the headspace for the close up for the entirety of lunch which was not easy. It really taught me that no matter what happens you just have to learn to be able to roll with the punches.

GN: Beyond horror, what kinds of stories or roles excite you most right now, and how do you see your career evolving in the next few years?

OS: I would love to explore the action genre more. I have been training in martial arts and would love to use that skill on set. I will say though that I love variety. After a few years of doing one thing I always have to mix it up or I will get bored haha.

GN: What does the term Goodnight mean to you?

OS: Goodnight sounds like a temporary goodbye to me. My brother and I shared a room growing up and every single night before we fell asleep we would always be sure to say goodnight, even if we were mad at each other. In a way I think we were saying no matter what is going on I appreciate you and wish you the best until the next time I see you.