Becoming “Abby” in American Trash
Sheila Ball, an actress noted for her emotional depth and openness, plays an important role in Robert LaSardo’s directorial debut American Trash. The film, set against the background of Venice Beach, California, dives into the lives of shattered people, their personal tragedy, and society’s ongoing decline. At the core of the picture is the figure “Abby,” played by Ball, who provides a relaxing and strongly meditative presence in the middle of mayhem. In a recent interview, Sheila discussed her role and the experience of working on this challenging project.
When asked about her character, Ball describes “Abby” as a motherly figure within the community created by LaSardo. “Abby is important to the narrative as she is part of the community “family” Robert LaSardo has created; I am the Mother Hen and care deeply for each and every member of our extended group. As circumstances unravel the sense of well-being, I am instrumental in maintaining calm and balance—or rather, that is what I set out to do.” Despite Abby’s outwardly nurturing role, Ball adds depth by highlighting the internal struggles her character faces. “Deep down, I too worry about my own existence in this seemingly off-balance world of Venice Beach, which is why I have compassion for Mandy and Milles and everyone around me. We are all struggling.” This internal tension reflects the broader themes of the film—how individuals seek stability amidst societal and personal collapse.
Ball’s relationship with Robert LaSardo, both as a director and collaborator, played a pivotal role in shaping her performance. She speaks highly of his directorial style, emphasizing the way his extensive acting experience allowed him to offer direction that went beyond technicalities. “Robert and I started discussing the script, “Abby,” early in the process. I immediately identified with his vision and the way he viewed filmmaking. On set, Robert was an actor’s director; he has done so much acting himself that he gave direction that was beyond technical. We really delved into “Abby,” her character and circumstance, but also how to bring myself to “Abby.” Robert knows the language and was a great director from the get-go; experience speaks for itself.”
LaSardo’s vision for American Trash required the cast to confront intense themes of social decay and personal trauma, something that Ball was fully prepared to tackle. When reflecting on how she prepared mentally and emotionally for the role, Ball candidly acknowledged that “No one escapes crisis. We all have our trauma. This is part of being human. The world of the film was tough but real. The scenes were intense, but because we all know what it is like to be down and out (whether we admit or not), I was able to tap into the difficult circumstances.” For Ball, the art of acting is an intricate balance between personal experience and imagination. “Our imaginations are as powerful as reality; the mind does not know the difference if you are willing to give over imagination.” By drawing on the Sanford Meisner technique of “living truthfully under imaginary circumstances,” Ball’s approach involved combining personal history with the unpredictability of the present moment on set.
As the film progresses, Abby’s journey mirrors the overall tone of transformation and healing in American Trash. Ball shared that crisis inevitably brings change, both for her character and for the larger narrative. ““Abby” experiences a lot of hardship and evolves into a more compassionate, loving human being by the end of the film: a deep understanding that we are all connected and responsible for each other is brought to the forefront, and love is at its core.” This evolution from a protector to a more enlightened, loving figure underscores one of the central messages of the film—that love and human connection are fundamental to survival, even in the darkest times.
The film’s ensemble cast features talents like Robert LaSardo and the late Tom Sizemore, and Sheila Ball considers herself fortunate to have worked alongside such experienced actors. She reflects on the experience of collaboration on set as a learning process: “I always learn a lot on set. The process is exhilarating. Even on days that are difficult, something positive unfolds; one learns something new and bonds with the cast and crew grow deeper.” This camaraderie not only reflects the sense of community within the film but also mirrors the ensemble nature of the cast’s work ethic. Ball concludes by honoring her time with the late Sizemore, adding poignantly, “RIP Tom Sizemore.”
Sheila Ball’s representation of a woman attempting to keep her town and herself together in the face of collapsing circumstances is grounded but colorful in American Trash. Her performance, along with LaSardo’s uncommon direction, promises to have a significant effect on viewers. Through Abby, Ball communicates a message of understanding, connectivity, and the everlasting power of human strength.
Information about Sheila Ball:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0050462/
https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/sheilaball
