Mello in ‘The Magnificent Seven’
Rob Mello, far right, is in the newly released film “The Magnificent Seven.” He is pictured here with James Marsden, second from left, in “The Best of Me.” (Public domain)
MOLLIE S. WATERS/THE GREENVILLE STANDARD
Just a few years ago, Rob Mello was like any other Greenville resident.
He worked, supported his family and was involved with his children’s activities. Mello was even attending classes at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in order to further his educational pursuits.
Eventually, he and his family moved to Tampa. While looking for a job, he decided to respond to a Craig’s List advertisement for extras in a film.
Since that unlikely beginning in the film industry, Mello has gone on to act in the 2014 Nicholas Spark book-turned-film “The Best of Me” with A-lister James Marsden, has been in several Indie films and has had a role on the television show “Nashville.”
Now, he is in one of the most successful releases of the summer: the remake of “The Magnificent Seven,” starring Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke and Chris Pratt.
Mello said his character in the film is a henchman for the villain (Peter Sarsgaard). Mello plays the mine paymaster.
“I’m a bit cruel,” Mello said of his character. “I facilitate what’s going on in the town. When the ‘7’ show up, I turn sides.”
Mello said several of his roles have showcased his villainous acting chops.
“Bad guys work for me,” said Mello. “People aren’t born bad; they’re made, so it’s fun to create the how’s and why’s of what makes people do the things they do.”
Mello said the experience of working on “The Magnificent Seven” was fun, but it had a few challenges, too.
“We were all in period costumes, meaning wool,” said Mello. “It was shot in Baton Rouge, so there wasn’t really any wind. The principal actors got their own area that was air conditioned. Extras and background didn’t.”
Mello said working with some of the stars of the show was enjoyable. He spent a good bit of time getting to know Chris Pratt.
While Mello is proud to have been a part of some big films, he hopes it is just the start of a career in making movies.
He has just wrapped “Heart, Baby,” an independent film starring Jackson Rathbone of “Twilight” fame.
“‘Heart, Baby’ is more than likely going to Sundance,” said Mello. In it, Mello plays the part of Gypsy.
“That’s actually the first role I have played of a person who actually existed,” said Mello.
“The Magnificent Seven” is now playing in The Edge 8 theaters in Greenville.
