As one of the most highly anticipated films so far this year, Truth or Dare really combines the genres of comedy and thriller to deliver an unique film filled with suspense that audiences will be thrilled to enjoy. We were lucky enough to be able to attend the premiere, where we got the chance to interview the stars of the film and see their work come to life on the big screen. The cast seemed to be genuinely excited to share their experiences on filming the movie, and we asked them to share any advice they may have for college students like the ones they portray in the film.
Lucy Hale, who plays Olivia in the film, described how her role in Pretty Little Liars actually gave her the confidence to take on a role in a horror film: “PLL prepped me to step up and take this role. [They are] both heightened realities, but Truth or Dare is an idea that can never happen where in PLL, it’s intense, but those things could actually happen.” We also received great insight into where her career is at now in a post- PLL world. “Life Sentence (Hale’s latest TV role) is on the other end of the spectrum. That’s why I was so happy to do that show because it was very different for me. There’s a lot more comedy in it, and it has so much heart. It was exactly what I needed creatively—I was itching to do something different.” When asked for advice that could be given to a college student who is faced with trouble, Hale responded with, “live your life and make mistakes to figure out what works for you because it’s different for everyone. Who you surround yourself with is so important,” which is a sentiment that is very prominent in the film.
We then caught up with Tyler Posey to get his insight into the role he plays in the movie, where he stated, “we both really care about our friends, and we both try to be the best guy we could be. Sometimes it doesn’t work for Lucas, but we both try.” The advice that Posey gave for college students was, “don’t take life too seriously! Be honest with your friends, love your friends and always be there for them. Have a good balance of not taking life too seriously and being professional—get your shit done!” Friendship is obviously an important aspect in Posey’s life, and viewers will see that same appreciation in his character in the film.
We then got the chance to speak with Sam Lerner, who shared with us how he came to the role of Ronnie: “I don’t think originally I was right for this role at all,” he joked. “Me and the director just kind of clicked. I had such a blast, and he let me improvise all my scenes—it was so cool.” After seeing the film, it was obvious that no one else would have been able to play the role of Ronnie! Lerner’s advice for college students was simply, “follow the game of life.”
Surprisingly, the film had a lot of comedic aspects to it, and while it was unexpected for such a hyped-up horror film, it was a relief. To be able to watch a movie that is scary but also gives a good laugh is something that is very unique, and without these actors, it would not have been as successful in its goal of entertaining. Overall, Truth or Dare features great talent and was able to keep us laughing, while still feeling great suspense. While the film is based on a supernatural occurrence, it does not shy far from reality when it comes to the unimaginable way some people may act under the pressure of the threat of death.
Catch Truth or Dare in theaters now! And check out our roundtable interview with Lucy Hale & Tyler Posey before the release of “Truth or Dare.”