The Malta Independent presents an exclusive interview with the Canadian model Noah Mills who stars, alongside Laetitia Casta, in the new D&G ad directed by Mario testino.
1. This is the latest of several Dolce&Gabbana campaigns for you – how does it feel to work with the designers and brand again?
It’s fantastic to be working with Dolce&Gabbana again! Every experience I have had working with the brand has been incredible, so the opportunity to come to Sicily and collaborate with again is really special, I was honoured to be asked.
2. How would you describe the Dolce&Gabbana man in your own words?
He’s a real man’s man, but in this sense possibly a little rougher around the edges. He has his own way of doing things, his own unique style and he really stands out for that. I think the Dolce&Gabbana man is suave and adaptable to a range of environments and situations – but wherever he finds himself he is always smart, sharp and ready for action.
3. Tell us what you think of the fragrance?
The fragrance is really great; it’s classic and masculine with a little warmth. I love refreshing fragrances with a hint of citrus, which Pour Homme has. Fragrances which are noticeable without being overpowering are the ones I go for, and this one definitely covers that. I like to wear fragrance, for me it is the finish touch when I’m getting ready; I never forget to wear it.
4. Tell us how the ad shoot has been going? How has it been working with Mario Testino?
The shoot was amazing, but it was so hot! The temperatures were pretty intense and I have to say I’m not quite as acclimatised as Laetitia is, but even so it was a great experience and I had such a blast working with the Laetitia, Mario and the crew. Mario is a genius, his vision is in another league and it’s been an honour to work with such an expert once more. He has such great intuition and a sense of how things should look; the slightest movement can alter the way a shot looks and he completely pre-empts that. I’ve learnt a lot and I feel like we’ve got some great shots. I’d love to work with Mario again sometime soon; it has been great getting to know him.
5. What about when you haven’t been shooting? Have you been able to see the island?
The island is fantastic; it’s been great exploring. Even during the shoot we moved to a few different locations and that really whet my appetite to go and explore some more. Sicily has charm; I love its authenticity and the traditional Italian feel. Then you have the beach which is like a paradise, so beautiful – I wish we could have stayed longer, I would definitely love to come back. The food, the weather, the people have all been great. When we were shooting in Erice, we had quite a few locals come and take a look - they were so friendly and encouraging and I could just tell how proud of their town they were. That was amazing to see.
6. The chemistry between you and Laetitia Casta has been incredible to watch! How has she been to work with as a leading lady?
Laetitia is so great; we got on incredibly well during the shoot. Her sense of humour is so dry and witty and she’s so spirited; she certainly kept us all in check and was really so much fun to work with. Laetitia is a real pro; she works incredibly hard and throws herself into her work 100%. I think we had a great rapport, and neither of us takes ourselves too seriously so that really helped during the shoot. The shoot lasted for about 5 days, so it was great to get to know Laetitia during that time, to hear about her family and everything like that. I think it was pretty strange for us all at the end of the 5 days as we had all grown close and experienced so many great times together.