Malin Akerman split her childhood between Toronto and Sweden before becoming a model at 17, which eventually led to a career in acting.
Akerman’s profile has been steadily rising with high profile roles in films like The Heartbreak Kid and Watchmen. She has split her time between comedies and drama, which the young actress relishes.
“I don’t have a preference to be honest with you. Comedy and drama are so different and I enjoy doing everything as an actor,” Akerman told Metro. “As long as it’s a challenge, I’ll try it all. Bring it on.”
Akerman’s latest venture is a project from Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau (who burst onto the screen with Swingers in 1996). The pair co-wrote and star in Couples Retreat — opening next week — a comedy about a group of married couples who embark on a tropical vacation only to unwittingly end up in a weeklong series of skill-building exercises and therapy sessions.
For Akerman the film was an opportunity to work with two comic minds that she has long admired. “I heard that there was a film being made with Vince Vaughn and I knew that they were looking for their girls,” said Akerman. “I got my hands on the script and thought it was a really great concept.”
Malin landed the job and soon found herself on a plane to Bora Bora. Beyond the tropical location there was still a film to be made and one starring some pretty sharp comic minds. This led to a great deal of improvisation on set, which Akerman enjoys.
“I’ve always liked improv. I think as long as you know your character and your goal in the scene, improv is easy.”
Especially when you’re working with masters like Vince Vaughn or Jon Favreau. Once they start going at it, you just want to sit back and enjoy the show.
“I am the worst giggler. You don’t want to ruin somebody else’s take, but when you’re working with this group of people it is not easy to keep a straight face,” says Akerman. “I’ll felt so bad because I just couldn’t do it.”
• For Couples Retreat photos, trailer and screen times — or to buy tickets — click here
