Lisa Solberg talks The Journey and being the female face of FIFA 19
Australian actress Lisa Solberg plays Kim Hunter in both FIFA 18 and 19's 'The Journey'. She talks to FTBL Life about her increasing role in the game, the process behind the production and becoming one of the female faces of the FIFA series.
While 'The Journey' series centred around Alex Hunter's story in the FIFA 17 and 18 series, Lisa Solberg's role as Kim Hunter became one of the centrepieces of the FIFA 19 edition.
FIFA lovers will have followed Kim's journey to the Women's World Cup and the struggles the character faced alongside Alex Hunter and Danny Williams.
Here is the woman behind Kim Hunter, Australia's own Lisa Solberg.
How did you land the gig for 'The Journey'?
"I had just recently moved to Vancouver from Toronto and 'FIFA 18 The Journey' was one of my first auditions here.
"So, as I was sitting in the audition room I realised everyone else had three scenes auditioning for Kim Hunter and I only had one. Turns out I didn't get sent the other two scenes so I only had 20 minutes to memorise and prepare an extra five pages.
"I got called back a few days later for a 2nd round audition and a week later I found out I booked the role.
"The funny thing is I didn't know what I had booked until I went to the wardrobe fitting and found out it was FIFA! I was completely shocked and as you can imagine very excited.
What was the reaction from friends and family to seeing you in what is a unique role in comparison to other acting roles?
"My family and friends were very excited to see me in FIFA. Especially my brother in law who has been playing FIFA since he was a kid, so he was really pumped!
"Everyone was surprised at how much Kim Hunter looked like me. I have to say, it was a pretty interesting conversation trying to explain to my grandmother how motion capture works."
What was the development process like for the game and how long did you spend recording?
"The first step in the process was when I went in for my wardrobe fitting to try on all the Kim Hunter outfits, next was my head and body scans, then I would go in for my filming days which required wearing a full body suit with motion capture balls all over it as well as a head camera helmet.
"I also had a series of dots and lines drawn all over my face that were used to track my facial movements.
"We filmed all the cutscenes (three different ways for user choices), the goal celebrations and recorded the voiceover.
"The process for me for each game was over a 6 month period."
Australian actress Lisa Solberg plays Kim Hunter in both FIFA 18 and 19's 'The Journey'. She talks to FTBL Life about her increasing role in the game, the process behind the production and becoming one of the female faces of the FIFA series.
What is it like seeing your face and hearing your voice in a video game?
"It honestly still feels so surreal seeing myself on FIFA!
"Admittedly, I don't have the kind of football skills that Kim Hunter has so it's pretty awesome to have an alter ego that is a professional football player!"
The game has continually pushed to have more female inclusion in the series and Kim Hunter's involvement has been key to that, how does it feel to be considered the 'female face' of FIFA?
"I must say that it's a huge privilege to be the female face of FIFA and also be involved in the growth of women's football.
"It has been a very exciting time as EA Sports has made history by creating Kim Hunter as she became the first female protagonist in a sports video game!
"It's great to know that FIFA is helping to raise the profile of women's football."
How did you like Kim Hunter's introduction to 'The Journey' series and her subsequent storyline?
"I thought it was a really unique and creative way to incorporate a new character who, upon her introduction, was a bit of an outsider.
"As Kim's participation in the storyline progresses, we see her confidence build, skills develop and relationships strengthen with her family and teammates.
"Kim is such a quirky, feisty and determined young woman so it was a really fun and challenging character to bring to life."
This year Kim had her own storyline centred around the Women's World Cup, what was it like being one of the key characters in a series that is played by millions worldwide?
"I think for most people when you think of the World Cup, the men's game is what comes to mind first, but EA is playing a huge role in shifting that thought.
"Basing a major part of the plot on the Women's World Cup was an ingenious way to shine a light on women's football I have had many female and male fans contact me from all around the world saying how Kim Hunter inspired them and has given them hope that they can also achieve their dreams.
"It's really encouraging to hear the positive impact this character is having, especially on young people. On a personal level, it has made me very excited to follow the next Women's World Cup."
Australian actress Lisa Solberg plays Kim Hunter in both FIFA 18 and 19's 'The Journey'. She talks to FTBL Life about her increasing role in the game, the process behind the production and becoming one of the female faces of the FIFA series.
Who was the biggest superstar you met while working on the game?
"Without a doubt that would have to be Alex Morgan. In all honesty, I was a little bit nervous about meeting an Olympic gold medalist and FIFA World Cup Champion but that all melted away after about five minutes.
"Alex was so genuine, humble and enthusiastic! It was an unforgettable experience, I even got to kick a ball around with her and she was kind enough to give me a few tips and also compliment me on my football skills!
"Alex is also very inspiring off the field too as she is a strong advocate for gender equality."
Have you had many more opportunities since your involvement in the FIFA series?
"I don't think I was prepared for what a huge hit the game, and this series, in particular, would be.
"The exposure I received from the release of FIFA 18 and 19 has been overwhelmingly positive and has afforded me many more acting opportunities, which I'm very grateful for, as well as a significant increase in my social media following."
While it has been hinted that Alex Hunter's story is over, the end of FIFA 19's Journey perhaps suggests that there is more to the Kim Hunter story. How would you feel about continuing Kim's story in future FIFA's?
"While I would, of course, be thrilled at any opportunity to step back into this character's shoes, unfortunately, The Journey trilogy has come to an end.
"Kim is such a strong and vibrant personality that playing her brought me so much inspiration and joy.
"I can only say that it has been the most exciting and rewarding experience of my young career and I'm so grateful to have had this unique opportunity!
"I just want to say a huge thank you to all the fans for your incredible support!"
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