Young Kamloops actor talks Monkey Beach experience

Photo: Ray Sison

Oliver Tru Sison and Zooey Snow left, Adam Beach and Oliver Tru Sison right.

Kamloops teen Oliver "Oli" Tru Sison is in the movies.

The 12-year-old Kamloops boy is part of the cast of Monkey Beach, which was released on Crave last fall.

Sison was selected to play Child Jimmy in the film, which was something very special for him.

“It was such an awesome experience. I was nervous at the start but once I started bonding with the cast and crew on set, they made me more comfortable,” Sison told Castanet Kamloops. “I am so grateful.”

Working alongside actors like Adam Beach gave Sison insights into the industry and allowed for an overwhelmingly positive experience.

“Adam especially, he made Oli and Zooey feel very comfortable and supported on them on and off set,” Sison’s mother Lori said. “There was one instance when Oli was having difficulty with a scene. Adam gave a Fortnite analogy and Oli was able to run with it.”

Sison also likes to do some his own stunts, something he was able to explore durning the making of this film.

“I did most of the small stunts but I did have stunt double for the diving off the boat scene because it was too dangerous and the ocean water was too cold,” he said.

The best part for Sison was the people. Hanging out with the crew and cast, and being able to enjoy his colleagues.

“Goofing off with the other actors and crew off-set, like Adam Beach (Uncle Mick), Nathaniel Arcand (Albert), and Zooey Snow (Young Lisa),” he said. “They made it lots of fun and relaxing.”

Overall, Sison had an amazing experience, especially working with director Loretta Todd, something his parents are very grateful for.

“Oli is so fond of Loretta. To my understanding she was an amazing director,” said Raymond, Sison’s father. “Patient, kind, professional, passionate. And we are so grateful that she gave Oli this opportunity to be part of it.”