Brandon Tyler Russell - Cont
Later that same year, Russell’s first audition for a short film led to a poignant
starring role. The bully theme of the Northwestern University production “Sweet
Vengeance” mirrored Russell’s life at school. Russell established himself as an
anti-bullying advocate and began participating in online and live events targeting
the problem. In 2009’s “The Exemption of Hunter Reilly,” Russell’s widowed mother
ignores her bullied son’s plight. The tragic finale has drawn numerous tears.
Prepping for the film included three weeks of stage combat training in addition to
learning how to stunt-fall safely. Brandon was nominated for a Young Artist Award
in 2010 for the role. Brandon was again nominated for 2011 for his role in the short
film Wurm.
Russell and his mother commuted between Illinois and Los Angeles until July ’08.
The combination of agent suggestions and their choice for manager refusing interviews
with anyone not living in L.A. helped them decide to relocate to his current home in
the San Fernando Valley.
Russell earned his first TV credit in mid 2009 with “Disney’s Three Minute Game Show”
testing tweens and teens on their knowledge of Disney film/TV trivia. Russell
victoriously competed against other actors including close friend Camila Forero
(“Gary Unmarried”).
In August 2009, Russell booked his first feature film, Tricoast Iowa Productions’
Smitty. Directed by David Mickey Evans (“The Sandlot”) and starring screen legend
Peter Fonda, alongside Academy Award winners Mira Sorvino and Lou Gossett, Jr.,
the film centers around Russell and his relationships with family and a special dog.
Russell lists the new “Friday the 13th” as his favorite film (“I like suspense….
Jason is cool!”) and Johnny Depp as his favorite actor. He enjoys studying all
aspects of feature films, from credits to discerning why each received its MPAA
rating. When not watching/studying movies, he enjoys videogames (especially
“Resident Evil” Parts IV and V), tennis, football, baseball, and skateboarding.
He hopes to eventually attend the USC Film School like his idol George Lucas.
Brandon Tyler Russell is represented by Cunningham, Escott, Slevin, Doherty Agency
(CESD), Ford Models (Print).
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