Liam Hemsworth on acting, being Team Haymitch and working with J.Law

MANILA, Philippines - Tall, sun-kissed, charming and close to being painfully gorgeous, Liam Hemsworth has got the superstar formula pegged to a real science –– and let’s face it, that gorgeous Aussie accent doesn’t hurt a bit. His starring role in The Last Song opposite pop star Miley Cyrus turned him into ideal tabloid fodder, especially after his offscreen relationship with Cyrus became public. And now he’s making news after rumors spread that his years-long relationship with the former Disney star is on the rocks. But there’s more to Liam Hemsworth than his golden-god looks and high-profile relationship.

He is, first and foremost, an actor –– one who seems keen on developing his craft. His portrayal of Gale Hawthorne in The Hunger Games and his latest foray into heist films and thrillers via Empire State and Thriller prove that he’s got an acting range and staying power to back up his seemingly overnight rise to fame. Also, he seems to be the sort of guy you wouldn’t mind sharing a beer with at a beach party. He’s the boy-next-door with the smile of a heartbreaker, and a true star that shines on-and offscreen.

I got a chance to sit down with Bench’s new endorser to find out more about being a Benchsetter, masking his Aussie accent, and setting the record straight: is he Team Gale or Team Peeta?

Philippine STAR: It’s pretty thrilling to have you as the newest Bench endorser. What made you decide to become part of the Bench group?

Liam Hemsworth: You know, I don’t really know too much about style in general. But I always say, if it makes you confident, it makes you feel good… I love Bench’s stuff. Casual and simple.

You’ve been delving into some pretty interesting films lately, like Empire State and Paranoia. Are there any other film genres you want to explore?

Usually when I look at a script, I look for something very interesting. For me, at the moment, the most important thing is finding a director I get along with, someone who’s on the same page… and also someone who has a clear vision.

Would you ever want to delve into other careers in filmmaking, perhaps behind the lens?

Yeah, I think one day. I’d love to be a director. And eventually, I’d love to be able to work with a great director for photography and create something great. I’d definitely love to get into that part later on, but I’d like to tackle [acting] first. (Laughs)

Is it hard to shake off your Australian accent for your films?

(Laughs) It’s getting easier and easier, I mean, I’ve been doing it for six years or something. Six years ago was the first time I did a film with an American accent. I’ve lived in the States for four years now, and it’s becoming easier, but I still work with acting coaches a lot.

I’m sure everyone has asked you about it, but are you excited for Catching Fire?

Absolutely, yeah. We got a whole new director, Francis Lawrence, who I’m a huge fan of before this, and even more so now that I was worked with him. He’s one of the most well-prepared directors and kind of stands for everything I’m look for right now in terms of directing. I’ve never felt so comfortable on the set… you wouldn’t think he’s the director because he’s so relaxed. He’s really eager about everyone working as a team. He just makes it so much more enjoyable.

Do you ever have to go all method when preparing to be Gale?

(Laughs) My biggest thing is just being present, and being able to react to what’s happening. And working with Jennifer Lawrence in the last few years, when we’re not rolling she’s completely herself and we have fun. But when it’s action, she’s more present than anyone. It just becomes so real.

Is it easier for you to be Gale as you go along, or does his larger role in the story make it more challenging?

Yeah, I played him in one film, and I played him again, so I’m getting to know him more and more. Like I said, working with Jennifer makes it easier, and working with Francis Lawrence makes it much less stressful. He’s kind of got it all covered.

All right, let’s get the facts straight: if you weren’t playing Gale, do you think you’d still be Team Gale or would you defect to Team Peeta?

(Laughs) Team Haymitch, I think. When I read the book, he was my favorite character and Woody Harrelson is one of my favorite people. I don’t get to work with him as much, because much of Gale’s storyline doesn’t really connect with his, but when I get the little moments with him, I really enjoy it. He’s such a fun guy to work with.

Really? He seems really intense.

He’s great. He’s one of the nicest people I’ve met.

You haven’t been in the Philippines much, so I can’t really ask you what’s it like so far. Is there anything you’re looking forward to seeing?

The coastline. I hear the beaches here are beautiful. In fact, uh… what’s good? (Laughs)

You should go to the mountains.

Mountains? I’ll see the mountains then. I’ve heard so many great things about this city, and I’m really excited to be here.

I guess it’s a bit like Australia, with all the beaches. Are you a big beach person?

I grew up by the beach, and surfing was my main hobby when I was a kid. I grew up on a little island. It’s more farmland by the sea, but beautiful beaches.

Do you think you’d do something that has to do with the beach or the outdoors if you weren’t an actor?

Probably. I think I’d be doing something outdoors. I used to work as a ranger. I’d probably be doing something like that, something close to nature.