Gina Gerson [writer, musician, actor, producer]

By: Editor | August 17, 2009 | Ten by Ten

Gina Gershon grew up in Southern California developing her love for acting. After her breakout role in Pretty in Pink her success grew with roles in Showgirls and the television film Sinatra. Currently, Gershon stars in Lifetime Movie Network’s Everything She Ever Wanted, premiering Aug. 30.

How would you describe the feeling of happiness?
Happiness is like mercury: You may have it in the palm of your hand without even realizing it, but the moment you try to capture it, to hold on tight, it will elude you. It’s fleeting. It’s a calm smile.

What do you consider your greatest career achievement?
I’m fortunate that I’ve been able to support myself and have a really fun life by doing projects whether they are acting, music, writing, producing, etc. … whatever catches my fancy at the moment.

Is there anything that you are sorry for?
I’m sorry that I was cruel to this little boy when we were 7. I behaved really badly. I need to find him and apologize. Maybe he’s on Facebook …

How would you describe your current political point of view?
Optimistically realistic; trying hard not to be too cynical.

Who is your favorite musician/composer and why (feel free to list up to five)?
Trying to name my five favorite composers/musicians is impossible. There are too many that I love for different reasons. I’ll just go with the moment.

I happen to be in Ischia, Italy, right now at the film and music festival, and I saw this incredible pianist last night who blew me away with his creativity and connection to the muses — he was really out there. His name is Eric Lewis — very inspiring to see.

I was just watching On the Waterfront again the other day, and I must say that Leonard Bernstein’s score is super genius. His use of silence is sophisticated and effective, and of course, West Side Story. He really gets the psychology and emotions of the story and supports and elevates them with his scores.

I love Tom Waits for his wildness and originality. I often wish I could sound like him. I wish he had sung “Cracks of Sin,” a song off of In Search of Cleo, instead of me.

I’ve always loved and admired Elvis Costello. Not only is he an amazing songwriter, he’s so darn prolific. The man never stops, and he plays with so many styles and does so many different things. I really admire that in an artist.

Probably my personal favorite composer is Jack Elliott. He was my uncle, and not only did he write tons of groovy scores (my favorite probably being the theme to Barney Miller, a favorite amongst bass players everywhere), he truly inspired me to do what I love and made me appreciate great music and musicians.

Please arrange the following four subjects in order of importance to you: science, religion, politics, art.
Art, science, religion, politics.

What is your favorite quote?
“God has no religion” — Gandhi

What is your greatest source of inspiration?
Three-year-olds, chocolate chip cookies and the sea (especially craggy cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean).

Define love in as few words as possible.
Cozy. Possibilities. Bloody.

What is your greatest fear?
My greatest fear is being torn apart by a great white shark and not dying instantly.

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