Louis Mandylor talks about “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3”

NEW YORK – by Markos Papadatos

Greek-Australian actor Louis Mandylor chatted with Markos Papadatos about starring in the upcoming film “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3.

He is looking forward to “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3” being released later this year. In this third installment, the Portokalos family travels to a family reunion in Greece for a trip full of love, twists and turns. “Obviously, we are excited about this film,” he said. “I think it’s a really special film, especially since it pays tribute to the late Michael Constantine, and it has a lot of heart because of that.” 

“The first ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ film changed all of our lives, and we hope this new movie touches just as many hearts. Get ready for this romantic comedy with the franchise. The Greek family is back to amuse you and touch you,” he added. 

Mandylor also starred in “Breakout” opposite the late Tom Sizemore, Brian Krause, and Kristos Andrews. This movie was also directed by Brandon Slagle. 

“There was a lot of puzzle-solving in this movie, and I had a good time,” he said. “If you show Brandon something and he likes it, he runs with it, and that’s why I like working with him. Brandon and I have the same sensibilities, and it’s always creative.” 

“I think Brian Krause smashed it as the villain in the film, he has both chops and experience,” he added. 

On being an actor and filmmaker in the digital age, Mandylor said, “I made and cut my first movie on film… I’m old and I come from that era. Streaming is good because it is opening a whole new platform and I hope it keeps growing.” 

“Streaming has changed a lot of things, and the business has changed but as long as there are platforms and a demand, then there will always be content,” he added. 

He opened up about his Greek-Australian heritage. “I was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia,” he said. My parents are from Kalamata and Tripoli, and I’m a Greek-blooded Aussie guy who is staying in Europe now, and that has changed my life. I was just in Athens and I am hoping to shoot there again.” 

On the title of the current chapter of his life, he remarked, “Getting Back… what belongs to me.” “I’ve had ups and downs in this business and I am working hard again. I’ve invested a lot of my love and passion back into the business,” he said. 

If he were to have any superpower, it would be “luck.” “With a little luck, you can go a long way,” he said. “I would like that superpower.” 

For young and aspiring actors, he said with a sweet laugh, “Go to school, become doctors, and get a good education. I’m not even joking.” 

“In life, if you really love something, then it’s an extension of yourself, and if you are doing that every day, then you are rich. If you love the arts, then pursue them and don’t let anybody stop you,” he said. 

“Go for it, it’s a lot of hard work and a lot of rejection,” he added. 

On his career-defining moments, he shared, “Every moment that I thought would never work again defined me. It was a rough road and I was sleeping in garages and I had no money. All those hard nights where I thought my career was completely finished is what defined me because I never gave up and I am still here.” 

“I am just excited to keep building and having some opportunities to work with more talented directors and thespians,” he added. 

Regarding his definition of the word success, Mandylor said, “Boots on ground, no matter what. When I see people that don’t have a head on their shoulders, it bothers me immensely. Hopefully, the one thing I will always retain is my feet on the ground.” 

To learn more about Greek-Australian actor and filmmaker Louis Mandylor, follow him on Instagram.