Brief encounter: Craig Hall

Craig Hall from the TV production Operation Venus/Mars. Photo / Doug Sherring

How do you define "home" - what elements must it have?
We are here, there and everywhere, so home is where we are long enough to unpack our suitcases into drawers. Home is where my books are, and where I have my things in their place.

What's the most challenging thing about being an on and off-screen couple?
Probably filming the intimate scenes. PDA to the max.

When did you last cry, and why?
At a friend and colleague's funeral last week.

Who would you most like to play in a biopic and who would direct it?
I haven't really thought about that before. It would be fun and interesting to investigate the life of David Bowie, though. And why not grab Martin Scorcese to direct while we're at it?

Describe your "difficult years".
I was 18-20. I didn't have a focus or direction. There was a lot of energy in me with nowhere to go and it manifested as anger. I didn't know how to deal with it at the time. I just fought a lot. Around then I got involved in acting classes, and in hindsight, they gave me a focus and a drive to funnel those energies into.

Something about you that would surprise others?
I have obsessive compulsive tendencies when it comes to cleaning and tidying. Making sure everything lines up to edges. Geometrical tidiness.

What was the last show you binge-watched?
Outlander. My wife [actor Sara Wiseman] had read the Diana Gabaldon novels and was keen to see the series, and we watch most things together so I went along for the ride. Next show up is Bloodlines.

If you could live in another era, what would it be and why?
I wouldn't like to live in another era. Although things are improving, we seem to still be struggling with basic human rights, so an era less aware than this one wouldn't be my cup of tea.

How does Auckland look from where you are?
From Sydney, Auckland looks less busy and more relaxed. I love Auckland, it's my home town.

Finish this sentence: It doesn't matter how much money they'd give me, I'd never ...
Swim with sharks.

Craig Hall and his wife, actor Sara Wiseman, star in A Place to Call Home, on TV1, 8.30pm, From this Thursday.