Sean Maguire
A Conversation with Sean Maguire
(Prince "Charming" John)

Q: What attracted you to this film?
A: I have always wanted to do a period film in which I would swordfight and ride a horse. I've also always wanted to do a voice for animation. I've never had a role that incorporates so many things that I haven't done but wanted to try. Oddly enough, this job opportunity came along and combined all three of those things.

Q: What is this story about?
A: It's about the rite of passage for a prince who has an eye for the ladies, which is his downfall. It's about growing up and becoming a man. It's also about taking on the responsibility of what it is to be a prince, to do right by your king, your country and your duty.

Q: What attracts audiences to fairy tales?
A: They're always entertaining and fun. I think fairy tales encapsulate the kind of things we fantasize about as children. There's also a moral fiber to them, which is why I think they have stood the test of time. Parents tell them to children for entertainment, but there's also a moral lesson in each one. Although Prince Charming is an old tale, it has certain 21st-century elements in it.

Q: You broke your arm during production. How did that happen?
A: I was filming a chase scene in which I am helping a damsel in distress and chasing after a guy on a bike. I was wearing a lot of gear, including a sword. I was running a bit too fast because I wanted it to look like I was very dashing, fast and heroic. As soon as I cleared the camera, I tried to slow down but had built up too much speed and ended up doing a bit of a cartoon tumble and went down the hill headfirst.

Q: Do you think there's magic in the world today?
A: There's magic everywhere, really. It's just a question of whether your eyes are open wide enough to see it. If you wake up and think "Oh, another day at work," you can walk past everything you see on the way to work¿ignoring the beautiful sunny morning, the fact that the leaves are falling and all the trees are beautiful¿because your heart and your head are not in the right place.

Q: Why do you think PRINCE CHARMING will attract a wide range of audiences?
A: It has those Shakespearean love elements. I love that the older audience watching will be able to get something for themselves. It's really nice, across the board.

Q: So what do you look for in a princess?
A: That is a tough one. I look for honesty and trust. I look for faith in oneself. And she has to be really good with a sword.