Erin Karpluk Do Exactly As I Say — Behind the Scenes Interview

Erin Karpluk Do Exactly As I Say: an exclusive behind-the-scenes interview where Erin explains playing Helen — a devoted mother forced into impossible choices — and reveals the on-set moments, improv touches, and directorial collaboration that shaped the film.

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Key Takeaways

Emotional anchor: Penny is Helen’s “north star” — Erin used this to ground every scene emotionally.
Page-turner script: The script’s twists helped Erin play Helen as someone discovering the story in real time.
Practical craft: Food-styling, camera trickery, and tight editing made the chef scenes believable.
Safety & intensity: Erin asked for multiple takes on emotionally dangerous scenes and relied on a supportive crew.
Small details matter: Wardrobe, hair and small props (earrings, shoes) informed the character’s identity.

Interview Highlights & Quotes

“Penny is my north star. I’d do anything to save her.” — Erin Karpluk

Erin explains how parenthood informed Helen’s moral arc and why she welcomed director Wendy Ord’s collaborative approach to shaping suspense and pacing.

On-Set Stories & BTS Moments

Chef montage — trickery and authenticity

Erin used online chef videos and worked closely with a food stylist to sell the illusion of being a professional chef — but admitted many shots were carefully edited to create the effect.

Emotionally dangerous coverage

For scenes that felt “dangerous” emotionally, Erin asked for extra takes and leaned on the crew’s professionalism to create a safe environment for raw performance.

Stunt hiccup

During a technical stunt Erin smacked her head on the first take — everyone checked in, adjusted, and the scene was completed safely thanks to the stunt coordinator and medical protocols.