**Costa D’Angelo Talks Horseback Riding and Costar Bonds Amidst Filming of Netflix’s ‘East of Eden’**
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Costa D’Angelo, the actor portraying young Adam Trask in Netflix’s adaptation of John Steinbeck’s ‘East of Eden’, has shared insights into how he made the most of his time in New Zealand during filming. The new series, a seven-episode limited adaptation of Steinbeck’s esteemed novel, has not only allowed D’Angelo to explore his character but also the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of New Zealand.
In an interview, D’Angelo expressed his passion for horseback riding, revealing that he seized every opportunity to ride through the breathtaking mountains. The 25-year-old actor, hailing from Melbourne, Australia, found solace in the great outdoors, balancing the demands of filming with adventures in nature. “I was trying to ride the horses as much as possible,” he remarked, highlighting his love for these majestic animals. He further noted his enjoyment of the local coffee scene and delicious meat pies, likening New Zealand’s coffee culture favourably to his own city’s offerings.
D’Angelo’s enthusiasm for the country was palpable as he described his experiences. “New Zealand is a place where there’s so much to do,” he continued. “All the beautiful wildlife and animals and nature, and you just go for long walks and get a coffee. That was me.” His fondness for the picturesque environment added a personal touch to the filming experience, allowing him to unwind amidst the lush scenery.
The storyline of ‘East of Eden’ navigates the complex lives of two families within California’s Salinas Valley, exploring timeless themes of love, jealousy, family conflict, and the struggle between good and evil. This adaptation joins the ranks of Elia Kazan’s influential 1955 film, which featured James Dean in a role that earned him a posthumous Academy Award nomination.
D’Angelo took on the challenge of embodying young Adam Trask, a character deeply entrenched within American literature. Addressing the pressure of stepping into such a significant role, he reflected on the initial intimidation he felt regarding the production’s scope and the narrative’s weight. “I knew East of Eden was such an incredible part of American history and literature,” he remarked.
However, D’Angelo found clarity by refocusing on the essence of Adam’s youth. “I think once I got past all that and just looked at the script, told the story, found who this child is… I had to kind of approach it from that thing,” he explained. This approach allowed him to connect with the character authentically, shedding the overwhelming pressure and instead revealing Adam’s innate innocence and quest for understanding.
Aside from the artistic challenges of the role, D’Angelo enjoyed bonding with his fellow cast members. Sharing experiences with Joseph Zada, Tom Sweet, and Joe Anders, he found great joy in their camaraderie. “We all had such a fun time. We went out whenever we could,” D’Angelo reminisced. Together they ventured into the local scene, frequenting restaurants and bars, and even indulged in a bit of friendly competition through games of pool.
While D’Angelo admits his skills at pool were not exemplary, he appreciated the healthy rivalry that developed among the cast. “We got really good at pool. I didn’t get good, but I competed. That’s all that matters, compete,” he said, highlighting the spirit of teamwork that blossomed off-screen.
The series premiered on October 1 and has already begun streaming on Netflix. With D’Angelo’s heartfelt portrayal and engaging storylines, ‘East of Eden’ not only evokes the essence of Steinbeck’s work but also showcases the vibrant connections formed during its production, both on and off the screen. As viewers watch the unfolding drama, they may find themselves captivated not just by the narrative but also by the shared experiences of the cast, forever intertwined in their journey of bringing a classic to life.