‘Origin’: Philipp Christopher On Starring In New YouTube Series

[Credit: Katja Kuhl / Left Bank Pictures | YouTube Premium © 2018]

German-born actor Philipp Christopher is set to star alongside Harry Potter alums Tom Felton and Natalia Tena in YouTube’ new original sci-fi thriller series, Origin.

The 10-episode series, from director ​Paul W.S. Anderson and the producers of ​The Crown ​and Outlander, ​follows a group of outsiders who find themselves abandoned on a ship bound for a distant land. Now they must work together for survival, but quickly realise that one of them is far from who they claim to be…

We had the pleasure of talking to Philipp Christopher about the new series!

Origin is a new YouTube original series—what can viewers expect?

A show with a diverse cast, unique characters and filled with twists and turns. It’s dark, it’s a bit bloody…but most of all viewers will have a hell of a good time. 

The new series certainly gives viewers a few scares! Do you feel this blend of sci-fi and horror will propel viewers to keep watching?

I certainly think it’s a good mix as it brings two genres together. In the end, it’s about the story and the characters. I’m so attached to the project so it’s difficult for me to be objective but I’m pretty sure I’d dig it and binge watch this thing within a few days. 

So, your character causes quite the drama in the first episode. What drew you to the role of Baum?

I tend to fall for characters that are very unlikeable in the beginning but start to get to you once they reveal their true self. Baum in no different. He has a hard and rather despicable shell but of course it’s all out of protection. He is scared to get emotionally attached to anything because he’s been hurt before. All and more we find out in his flashback. He’s a tragic figure, the outsider. Who wouldn’t fall for that guy.

Straight away Origin shows its diversity with its international cast—what was it like working with such a diverse range of actors?

Just splendid. I did pick up a few great British words such as “bonkers” and I was able to teach Tom a few German words. He’s pretty bad at it, to be honest. But seriously…it’s one of the things that makes the show so unique. The international episodes were shot in their original language and viewers will watch them with subtitles. That’s pretty ballsy, if you ask me. 

Were there any highlights for you while filming? 

I think working with Tom because it was just pure pleasure. The man is such a giving and professional actor and our storyline was just a blast to work on. Hindsight we joke about how we were very cautious about each other in the beginning but pretty soon it was nothing but love.

Is there a certain scene or episode that you found the most enjoyable, or perhaps even challenging?

I think the shower scene in episode 2 was pretty challenging. It was the first scene I shot for the show and I had to wear what’s called a cock-sock. It wasn’t my first time to do so, but my first time on a spaceship.

You’ve done some ‘behind the camera’ work yourself, do you find you are intrigued by what’s going on when filming?

I actually went to film school and my major was directing. I love filmmaking just as much as acting. Being part of the process makes one appreciate this art form so much more. As an actor however I try to turn that part of my brain off because I can become very critical. We were in good hand on this show though so that part of my brain never turned on. 

We saw you posted a sweet photo on Instagram of you and your family dressed in Star Wars costumes! Are you a bit of a sci-fi fan yourself?

I absolutely am. Although I have to admit that my Star Wars Fandom hasn’t really gone beyond the original trilogy. And I would throw in Rogue One. Other than that I do love all sci-fi that has a cool look and atmosphere. I am, however, the only one in the family thus far. 

What’s next for you?

I had some gigs in Germany and now started working on a play. I miss the stage. After that I’ll have a little convo with the universe…see what’s  in store for me.

Lastly, do you have any words of wisdom for those trying to break into the industry? 

Someone out there is looking for YOU exactly. Always keep your eyes open.

Origin premieres November 14th on YouTube Premium. Find out more about YouTube Premium subscriptions here and you can also get a free one month trial. The series stars Tom Felton, Natalia Tena, Sen Mitsuji, Nora Arnezeder, Fraser James, Philipp Christopher, Nina Wadia, Madalyn Horcher, Siobahn Cullen, Adelayo Adedayo and Wil Coban.

Check out the trailer for the new series and tell us in the comments below if you will be watching!