Kim Poirier

By Derek in Actors and Actresses on November 10, 2008

Canadian actress Kim Poirier Proves That She Can Do It All

Canada native Kim Poirier is an actress, TV host and most recently a producer. She acted in the movies "Decoys" and the remake of "Dawn of the Dead," and hosts the TV show "HypaSpace." Visit Kim's MySpace or official Website for more information.

How did you become involved in acting?

My mother got me into doing commercials and modeling when I was a kid. I did around 30 commercials growing up and countless magazines shoots. I loved it. I was always putting on a little show when I was a kid for whoever would watch…whether I was singing, dancing or acting.

What is one thing you would change about the TV/film industry?

That it was more accessible for smaller indie flicks with great scripts to be made. That people who were just starting out could have more opportunities to be seen. More outside-the-box thinking and less linear.

Have you ever played a character you thought was similar to you?

I think as humans we are all connected and with an open heart and mind, we can find understanding and compassion or acceptance in almost any situation. So I think in some senses every character is in fact a part of me. It's a piece of me in different situations and circumstances. If I had to name one character that I really related to, it was in the movie "Pretend You Don't See Her." She was this free spirit who just lived moment to moment with a zest for life and love. That way of living really inspires me; to be that cosmic, dynamic, free and in the universal flow.

What was your favorite film to work on and why?

I think the first "Decoys" was my favorite. It was my first lead in a feature, and I really loved the character of Constance and had the opportunity to work with a really great crew, cast and director (Matt Hastings rocks). I lived in a hotel which was another first for me, had many moments of personal epiphanies, moments of self-discovery…there were just so many firsts on that movie and I think I'll always treasure them. You never forget your first.

If you weren't an actress, what other career would you pursue?

I think I'd be a photographer who travels the world taking pictures for a major magazine, or a critic who eats in the best restaurants and travels to the best spas to review them. Maybe a sommelier who creates wine lists for restaurants and pairs them with food. [Others include] a musical performer, a writer, a director or a Peace Corps volunteer. Who knows where the world can take you when you follow your passion.

Any projects you're currently working on?

I've started producing which has been an interesting experience. I went to Cannes with a movie that I came on at the back end of the film as a producer. [The film was called "The Gospel of Phi"]. Then as soon as I got to Paris, I knew I wanted to work there. With French being my first language and my whole family being French, I suddenly felt at home.

So I am working with a publicist out there as well to start the ball rolling in France. Then there's Los Angeles…I'm in the process of getting my Green Card so I'd like to do a little work out there too. I've kind of developed this "international internal clock" and have an itch to travel and work abroad. I'm also working on another show that I would be co-creating/co-producing and hosting of which I cannot give details to but I promise it'll be uplifting with a good dose of humor.

I am currently shooting a feature film in Chatham, Ontario called "Silent But Deadly" with Jason Mewes from the Jay and Silent Bob movies, William Sadler (from Roswell and The Shawshank Redemption), and Jorden Prentice (from In Bruges and Weirdsville). It's a horror comedy that'll make you scream, laugh and squirm all at once. I play a documentary filmmaker who ends up getting the story of a lifetime as I embark on this wild and crazy journey investigating these strange goings on.

Along with being the west coast correspondent for The Space Channel, I am involved in doing on-set interviews and hosting as a continuous gig.

Do you have any superstitions (or know of any that stick out)?

No not really…other than karma I guess and believing in what goes around, comes around. But that's not really a superstition. I guess I don't walk under ladders, but then again that's a practical decision as I don't want the guy up there to drop his paint can on my head.

Where haven't you traveled that you would like to go?

One of the places I haven't been to is India. I would really enjoy going there and doing some yoga and exploring that culture. I would also like to go surfing in Costa Rica, visit Greece, walk around in Thailand, meditate on a cliff in Asia, sip on some fantastic wine in Rome or dance the night away in Ibiza…those are a few places on my list.

Are you involved in any charities and if so, which ones?

I'm active with the humane society for animals and various fundraisers in bringing to light awareness of important issues. I've participated in giving food to the homeless with "Nameres," which is a group that does nightly runs to feed the homeless and make sure they have clothing, water, blankets and other necessities. One day I would like to work with teenage drug addicts or travel to another country and help build homes for developing communities. I really enjoy being of service and helping others. It really puts things into perspective and affects me at a deep level being able to give back in this way.

What inspires you?

Risks. Taking chances and going beyond my comfort zone into the unknown and just trusting. Most of my friends think I can be a little impulsive in my decisions and just doing it because my heart told me so…but hey, that's me. Love inspires me [and so does] art, music, deep conversations, meditation, challenges, new things, new people from different backgrounds and culture, traveling and a really good book. Also working with a teacher or different healing modalities – like reiki or shiatsu – brings about moments of clarity and sparks of inspiration.

What advice would you give actors just starting out?

To believe in yourself. Don't be attached to anyone's opinion and discount your own power. Always do your best and trust your instincts. Some people may help you along the way and some may not. Some may compliment you and some will put you down. In the end, for every good there's a bad, so if you're not attached to any of them, they just are. The biz goes up and down so find ways to enjoy both ends. And be true to who you are, know who you are and operate from that authenticity and integrity.

Always be open to learning and you'll be surprised as to what you learn. Open your heart, your mind and your guts to life, living and love.