“My training at Lee Strasberg was foundational to my work on this game,” says alumnus Jack Murillo, discussing his recent work on Battlefield 6—Electronic Arts’ latest infantry combat game developed by Battlefield Studios. “Video game acting really comes down to two things: imagination and your cast mates,” Jack explains, “Beyond that, you’re performing on a blank canvas.” The Method gave Jack the tools to make the imaginary tangible, building an inner emotional life and connecting it to the external reality of the text. “Strasberg refined my imagination so I could adapt quickly and truthfully,” Jack says. “When the director or writers came to us with changes, I was able to pivot with ease while maintaining the realism and authenticity of the scene—that’s definitely a skill I honed at Strasberg.”
Working On A Beloved Game
“Working on Battlefield 6,” Jack explains, “was nothing short of a dream come true. I’ve been a fan of the Battlefield series since I was a kid. Every single day stepping onto set, I was overwhelmed with excitement. Thirteen-year-old me would be insanely proud of thirty-two-year-old me.”
Acting for Performance Capture
In the world of performance capture (PCAP), actors are not surrounded by the trappings of a traditional set. “You’re in a grey room, wearing a jumpsuit covered in sensors and a helmet packed with tech,” Jack says. “The only tools you really have are your imagination and your scene partners. In this space, your imagination is quite literally the limit. You have to dig deep and create something within, then project that onto the blank slate around you.” By the end of a long day of that imaginative work, Jack understands why actors say, “my imagination feels sore.” But, as a Method-trained actor, Jack explains that he was prepared to deliver a consistent performance even in the face of arduous repetition. “You have to be able to wake up early the next morning and do it all again.”
On-Set Military Advisor
Jack speaks to the layers of his personal connection to the project: “As a Marine Corps veteran working on a military game about Marines, I had a tremendous experience. I was able to make meaningful contributions every day, drawing on my experience as an infantryman in the rifle platoons, machine gun section, sniper platoon, and as a squad leader.” Jack goes on to explain that the military advisors on set were crucial members of the creative team and even brought him in to share his expertise. “I kind of became a member of that advisory team! The whole team was committed to maximizing realism and authenticity. The cast did a few days of dedicated military training before shooting—everyone was motivated to develop their skills and portray service members with the utmost detail and accuracy.”
The Incredible Cast
Working with an ensemble of actors all committed to bringing the characters in Battlefield 6 to life gave Jack another layer of joy on this project. “The cast of squad (DAGGER 13) are some of the most beautiful people I’ve ever met—generous, creative, committed, and talented! Truly outstanding artists I’m grateful to have worked with. We keep in close touch, so we’re not just a squad in the game—we’ve become true comrades in real life too! Jay Walker, Ashley Reyes, Damon Dayoub, and Adam Lindo—all incredible actors and wonderful people. DAGGER 13 forever!”
Jack’s Work & Mission
Jack Murillo is a Latinx-Indigenous artist and activist of Nahua, Otomí, and Cree-Métis descent, he is an alumnus of the 2-year Conservatory Program at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in Los Angeles.
His work has encompassed independent film, television, theatre, and commercials, as well as video games and streaming. His production company, Kynetic Films LLC, has produced documentaries, commercial content, and award-nominated short films.
Jack’s mission is to create authentic and truthful narratives that engage audiences in introspective reflections on their humanity. He remains steadfast in his commitment to advocating for the rights of the Indigenous people of the Americas and their representation in media. He resides in Los Angeles with his wife.
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