By Denny Patterson
Exteriors, the latest feature from acclaimed filmmaker Mark Schwab, is now available to stream on GayBingeTV.
A poignant and intricately woven triptych of modern gay relationships, the film explores love, obsession, and reconnection through chance encounters that feel anything but accidental. With its emotionally rich narrative and returning characters from Schwab’s 2021 film Brotherly Lies, Exteriors stands as both a continuation and an evolution of his cinematic universe.
At the center of one of the film’s most heartrending storylines is Wyatt, played by Miami-based Latino actor Christian Gabriel. When Wyatt’s best friend unknowingly falls for his ex, the character is forced to navigate the blurred lines between loyalty and heartbreak. Gabriel, who previously starred in Schwab’s Shadows in Mind, brings depth and authenticity to the role – a natural fit for the actor, whose own story of resilience mirrors the emotional complexity of the film.
Born and raised in Miami in a neighborhood known for its rough edges and strong immigrant presence, Gabriel moved to Hollywood at 18 with dreams of entertaining. Now, he continues to shine on screen while staying rooted in the community that shaped him.
OutClique recently caught up with the actor to talk more about his role in Exteriors, working with Schwab, and what it means to bring layered, queer Latinx stories to life.
Denny Patterson: Hi, Christian! How excited are you for Exteriors to stream on GayBingeTV?
Christian Gabriel: I’m super excited! I’m excited for this film to blossom and people are going to see it. It’s receiving the recognition that it deserves.
Denny Patterson: Without giving too much away, what can we expect from this film?
Christian Gabriel: This is a very complex film. There’s so much that goes on with it, and the way it’s cut up, you won’t want to watch it just once. I think you’ll want to go through it a few separate times. There are three beautiful stories that come into one, and you can expect authentic storytelling. It’s almost like you’re sitting in a room watching a conversation.
Denny Patterson: And you play Wyatt. Can you tell us more about this character and what you wanted to bring to the role?
Christian Gabriel: I love Wyatt’s character. I feel like he’s the same, but also the total opposite of me. I may come off being super loud and confident, but in reality, I’m very shy. Wyatt, he’s confident on the inside and out, so I wanted to play him in a way where he knew exactly what was doing and he was in control of everything. Every decision he makes, he does it with purpose. I love him.
Denny Patterson: What initially drew you to Exteriors, and why did you want to be involved with this project?
Christian Gabriel: Our director, Mark Schwab. I did another film with him called Shadows in Mind, and I absolutely love that man. I love the way he films, talks, his passion for filmmaking, and I would certainly want to work with him again. The guy made me a star twice, he’s put me in two of his movies, and he’s always been there for me.
Denny Patterson: What do you ultimately hope audiences take away from Exteriors?
Christian Gabriel: The talent within this film. Not just the actors because everyone is super talented, but everyone behind the camera as well. Like, these shots that Mark did, they’re beautiful. I want audiences to take in everything they see on the screen. You may think this is all natural and easy, but no. Mark’s up on the ladders, putting up lights, doing all these different things to make these beautifully talented actors shine even more. He is delivering the best quality possible in creating such a beautiful story.
Denny Patterson: Have you always had a passion for acting?
Christian Gabriel: Yes! I love entertaining, and as long as I’m entertaining, I am complete. Unfortunately, life has gotten in the way so I haven’t been able to pursue everything I’d like to do, but that’s not going to stop me. I like making things that people like to watch. Whether it’s acting, karaoke, stand-up comedy, improv, or filling up an empty space with a random story from my childhood, entertaining is my true passion. I’ve always wanted to be an actor, but more so because I just wanted to entertain at every level of my life. This has always been my calling.
Denny Patterson: You grew up in a tough neighborhood in Miami. How did that upbringing shape your journey as an actor?
Christian Gabriel: Honestly, I don’t believe it shaped me as an actor because I haven’t truly been given the opportunity to be myself in the industry yet. However, growing up in a tough neighborhood, the barrio, has shaped me into the person I am today. I mean, I went to a high school where we fought, and my upbringing made me strong. I can say no to when I don’t want to do something. If I don’t know you, you’re not going to disrespect me. That goes for directors, producers, and fellow actors. I do what I want, work in the films that I want, and I’ve never been afraid to say no or stand my ground.
Denny Patterson: If you could give advice to young Latino actors trying to break into the industry, what would it be?
Christian Gabriel: Let me say this: be pretty, but don’t be afraid to be ugly either. People in L.A. will try to change you, but you know what? Work with that. If someone says they can give you this opportunity, but you have to change a little bit, okay. Change a little bit, but don’t lose who you truly are. Know when to clean it up, know when to let it down, and don’t be afraid to be ugly. Also, I feel like so many actors come out here being like, I went to this school and got a BFA, but that honestly means nothing. You may know how to read a monologue, but do you know how to hustle in this business? There needs to be a level of humility, and be humble with all your interactions.
Denny Patterson: What are some future goals you hope to accomplish with your career?
Christian Gabriel: I want to star in a film that’s more interesting than my life. I’ve turned down projects because, truthfully, my life is already interesting right now and I love the work I do outside of acting. I want something deep, real. Something I sit in, close my eyes, and exist in. A film that is genuinely good from the script. I don’t care who makes it or what the budget is, but if it’s achievable, I’ll do it. Give me that script that gives me goosebumps, and I’ll smile from ear to ear.
