Meet Gigi Cappetta, Actress

Hollywood young starlet Gigi Cappetta just became the youngest nominee in the Best Actress category for the Imagen Awards in Beverly Hills August 18, 2017 in the same category as Salma Hayek and Eva Longoria. Learn more by following Gigi on Facebook and Instagram, and check out her page on IMDB.

1. How did you get started with acting?

My parents really struggled to find something that I enjoyed. They tried dance, cheerleading, soccer--you name it. It was when a teacher told my dad that I had been standing on a table in the classroom belting out Barry Manilow's "Copacabana" and other show tunes in elementary school that my parents then had a chat. Some little modeling then led to small acting roles that led to bigger roles and off we went!

2. What do you like best about acting, and what do you find most challenging about it?

I love it. I love every aspect of it. I know it sounds crazy, but it is literally my life. It's all I want to do. Challenges are moving, not staying in same place and friends--loss of friends, old friends and new friends; friendships are really hard to maintain in this lifestyle. Again, it's a choice that I choose to do, and no one is making me. So it all work out in finding other ways to keep busy and the right friendships will come along in time. The travel is fun, and getting to work with big stars and directors is just like living a dream.

3. Would you tell us a little bit about your Imagen Award nomination and the film you're nominated for?

My 2017 Imagen Award Nomination for Best Actress in a Feature Film came as a huge surprise. I mean, to be nominated alongside Salma Hayek and Eva Longoria and Edy Ganem, well, what 12 year-old wouldn't be over the moon! It's almost too much to take in. My mom thought it was a typo maybe when it was announced. We had a good laugh over that. But seriously, it's the biggest honor of my life.

4. I read that you're also a talented singer. What opportunities have you found so far to combine your acting and singing talents?

That's so sweet of you to say, thank you. I love singing, I was lead singer in School of Rock when I was in New York, and that was an incredible experience. Being surrounded by a band of kids all tweens, each one a super talented musician, coming together and making awesome music was one of the best experiences of my life.

5. What else would you like readers to know about you and your work?

That I appreciate every person who is joining me in my journey online and on social media and watching my films and TV series. I love this world of entertaining people, and I know I am luckier than words can say getting to do what I love.

Thanks, Gigi!

Meet Lunden De'Leon, Actress

Actress Lunden De'Leon has played a number of diverse roles in television and film ranging from a caring therapist (Somebody's Child), to a young African mother (Vital Signs) and a sexy villain (Cryptz). Yet over and over again, the actress wins over audiences by making these characters very memorable. After taking on small roles in film and television, De'Leon began to transition into leading roles on the small screen. She soon landed bigger roles and gained worldwide recognition portraying the role of Joanne Mbutu on the television series Vital Signs. De'Leon later went on to appear in over 50 movies and television shows working alongside some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Just recently, De'Leon starred in the romantic comedy An Inherited Life, portraying the role stylish lawyer, Bianca Wallace. Whether it's a thriller, a funny comedy, or a tear-jerking drama, De'Leon has done it all. When asked what's next for the actress she replies, "I'm currently revamping my cosmetic line 'Lunden De'Leon Cosmetics', as well as working with a few charities in South Carolina. So I'm juggling a number of great things right now."

Learn more about her by visiting LundenDeLeon.com.

1. What do you enjoy most about acting?

I enjoy analyzing my character and becoming that character while staying as organic as possible.

2. How have your experiences differed when it comes to working on movie projects contrasted with working on TV projects?

I appreciate both film and television. I'm just thankful to be working. However, I can take more creative risks in film, so that gives it a little edge.

3. Would you tell us a bit more about your cosmetics line?

I started Lunden De'Leon Cosmetics years ago but decided to revamp it around Christmas time. The line offers a variation of beautiful shades for darker skin tones.

4. What are some of the charities in South Carolina that are dearest to your heart?

I dedicate my time or money to a number of charities in South Carolina. I know what it's like to struggle; therefore, I have to give back. From homeless to helping at risk youth--it's all dear to my heart.

5. Do you have any projects you're especially looking forward to in 2017 and beyond?

I have two movies coming out in 2017: a horror movie called The Lake House which should hit theaters this fall and a romantic comedy for television called An Inherited Life.

Thanks, Lunden!

Check out Simo Benbachir's Interview with Victoria Summer

As a blogger, sometimes I want to tell everyone about a particular interview I've done. It can be especially exciting to interview an artist toward the beginning of their already simpressive career, when you have the strong feeling that this person is only going to become more and more successful as time goes on.

So I want to share the good news of Dubai TV Alarabiya News English reporter Simo Benbachir (aka Simobb), as he recently enjoyed the opportunity to interview popular British actress Victoria Summer. You can see a video of the interview by clicking here to visit the English language site for Alarabiya. The interview was hosted at Lab Art Los Angeles by Iskander Lemseffer and directed by Brian Patamakanthin.

While their conversation took place as part of the publicity that Victoria Summer is doing for her new starring role in Game of Aces, you probably know her from two other very popular films in which she had supporting roles. She played Julie Andrews in in Walt Disney Pictures' Saving Mr. Banks starring Tom Hanks as Walt Disney and Emma Thompson as Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers. She also appeared in Paramount Pictures' Transformers: Age of Extinction, directed by Michael Bay.

In Game of Aces, directed by Damien Lay, she plays the lead role of British nurse Eleanor Morgan. The movie is set during WWI and is described as both a romance and an adventure. It has received good notices in the L.A. Times and other media.

I think you will enjoy the engaging interviewing style of Simobb. He is a Moroccan TV reporter who covers entertainment and "gossip" stories in a fun and upbeat way. He has over 18 years of experience in media and is a well-known presence at many glamorous international events.

You can see that he enjoys sharing Victoria Summer's story of perseverance as she spent a number of years funding her acting career by working as a nanny and personal trainer. She worked in musical theater in London for some time before moving to Los Angeles to follow her dream of breaking into American film and television.

In her own words, "The secret is persistence and staying focused; I just keep going, and I do not stop. You have got to take off any poky barrier that comes your way and staying on that one path knowing where you are going and keep it going.”

For the full conversation between Simo Benbachir and Victoria Summer, click here.

Meet Pragathi Yadhati, Actress

Born in Anantapur, India, Pragathi Yadhati is a film and theater actress who lives in New York. In addition to acting, Pragathi writes plays and poems, and she also does modelling work. Learn more about her by visiting her IMBD profile.

1. How does it feel to be an Indian actress in New York City?

It feels great. In this era of globalization, the world is coming together sharing all the different cultures that exist in it. I'm glad that I have the opportunity to portray my own and contribute to creating this awareness of multicultural impact globalization has. New York audiences loved my performances in off-Broadway shows like Bollywood Wedding, Baggage Claim, and others, and my stand up comedy which introduced our culture to them. We all know that a high percentage of Indians are into IT as engineers, and many of them work here in the United States. But there are hardly any Indian actors who represent this population or capture the essence of their lifestyles. I'm working in cross cultural movies that are mainly targeted to present this to the American audience and at the same time provide a platform for those Indians to connect their lives with the global culture.

2. What was it like for you to attend the well-known Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute?

It was a wonderful experience and I learned a lot in the two years that I spent there. Apart from acting on stage and in front of camera, I've learned the importance of punctuality and discipline. I learned how to keep my body, mind, and soul in tune so as to perfect the craft that I perform.

3. Would you tell us about some of the awards you've won so far for your acting work? What are some of your achievements so far?

As I'm working my way to doing big things, one of my short films got nominated for the Best Film at Queens World Film Festival (2011), and the other one just got accepted at the prestigious Heritage Film Festival. One of my Indian short films won the Best Short Film award at the Kalaignar Television channel awards show called "Naalaiya Iyakkunar 3" in 2012. Now I'm working in a feature film which is the first language agnostic film ever made. Apart from these, I’ve received several prizes in dance and acting growing up when arts was just an extracurricular activity. I performed on many a great stages in my hometown in India such as Hari Hara Kala Bhavan, Thyagaraya Gaana Sabha, and others, all places dedicated for performing arts and cinema. I won several prizes for these performances and received them from the hands of notable people in India like the present Home Minister for the State of Telangana, India, Nayani Narasimha Reddy (formerly the Technical Education Minister of the State), elite stars of South Indian cinema like Ramya Krishnan and Chiranjeevi. I feel fortunate to have received several awards from award winning seasoned actors and movie industry prominents like Dadasaheb phalke award winner (India's highest award in cinema) Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao , C. Narayana Reddy, Telangana Shakuntala , Madhukar Anand, Shobha Naidu, and others. The tradition in India is that the awardee is honored by donning a silk shawl around their shoulders for their contribution to excellence in their field. I feel extremely proud to have received such an honor by Mr. Nageswara Rao and Mr. Reddy at such a young age that I was.

4. As someone who enjoys writing as well as acting, do you hope to expand your career into writing and possibly directing work in the future?

Acting and performing is my passion. There is nothing like being on stage, in the moment and in front of the live audience. And there is no feeling better than reaching out to and touching lives of millions of audience through cinema. I choose to be an actor.

Putting in words what you want to bring to live performance is a tough process. I love writing and I enjoy this process of writing. I've started writing my own screenplays. But I haven't thought about directing yet though.

5. What else would you like American audiences to know about you--and when can we see you on screen?

As many of you in New York call me, I'm your Indian girl. An authentic Indian girl who has roots in India and education in America. Who else could better portray all those Indian roles that you wanna see on TV and movies? With a few projects currently in works, I'm looking forward to more opportunities that give me a challenge to bring out my full potential and present it to the audience.

Thanks, Pragathi!

Meet Kimberly Fisher, Writer and Entrepreneur

Kimberly Fisher is former model and actress. She is the founder of Jetsetera.net and LuxeSoul.com, and she is a busy lifestyle writer, media personality, and internet entrepreneur.

1. How did you first become interested in blogging?

I have always had a love for reading and writing, and I was offered a column when I was modeling entitled "Ask the Model." From there I read everything I could on freelance writing, and just starting pitching different publications. In 2008 I started Jetsetera as a way for friends and family to keep track of me while I was traveling the world, and it eventually turned into what it is today: a curated luxury travel blog with a focus on lifestyle.

2. What are some of your favorite topics to write about?

Travel is always a favorite topic, but I tend to also cover beauty, fashion, and eco-friendly living.

3. In building your websites, what are your personal guidelines for creating content that catches the interest of readers?

With so many different blogs out there, it is hard to get noticed. You have be uniquely you. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and speak your voice. Also, write about something you are passionate about--it won't be work if it is something you enjoy doing every day.

4. What are some things we can do to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle while also being mindful of the environment and sustainability?

There are so many ways to give back. You can mix entertaining with giving back by attending charity event, or buy luxury clothes and goods that give back and support a community or a cause in some way. Even choosing hair, makeup, or skin products that are not only good for the environment, but are better for you. I have also seen a huge jump in sustainable and eco-friendly travel over the past few years.

5. What projects do you hope to pursue in the next year or so?

I am looking at branching back into hosting with the development of video and online shows for both Jetsetera and LuxeSoul, as well as some other projects and collaborations.

Thanks, Kimberly!

Meet Cleo Tellier, Actor

Cleo Tellier is a French-Canadian actor who recently moved to Toronto to pursue her acting career. She is known for the role of Émilie in the 15 season TV show Virginie and also the role of Flora in the Emmy-nominated show, 30 vies. She can also be seen in Degrassi as Rheanne on TeenNick. In addition to these TV shows, she is known for her numerous national commercials for major campaigns.

Learn more about Cleo Tellier on IMDB, as well as her website, www.cleotellier.com.

1. How did you first become interested in acting?



It was always something I wanted to do. Acting has always been a part of me. When I was about 4 or 5 years old, I kept asking my parents to "be on TV." They didn't understand: my mother is a lawyer, and my father works in accounting, so they had no idea where this desire came from. With time, they got really tired of hearing me talking about this! They ended up letting me auditioning for talent agencies. They have been very supportive of my career since then.

2. As a bilingual actor, do you find that you get more work in English or French--or some of each?

When I moved in Toronto two years ago, I figured that my French would be a waste and that I would only get work in English. I was wrong; I never got that many commercial auditions in my life! Most national commercials are made in Toronto, so they are looking for actors who can do both the French and English version. In terms of TV and film, I usually auditioned in English only. If I want to audition or work in French, I need to travel to Montreal because that's where all the French production companies are.



3. Would you tell us a little bit about your experience with appearing on the TV show Virginie? 



I loved working on Virginie. It was always the same crew, so you got to know everyone from episode to episode. We became like a family, and it was hard to leave at the end. The show was on for so long and the fan base was big. It really helped me to start my acting career. That's where I developed all my skills as an actor. I learned so much and met people who I have worked with after, mostly in 30 Vies. It was probably one of the best experiences in my life.

4. What is the biggest challenge about doing work for TV commercials?

That's a tough question. TV commercials are probably the hardest work I do. It's very challenging because everything goes so fast and you're expected to act perfectly every time. They often change the script at the last minute on the day of the shoot, so you need to be able to learn fast and adapt to the situation. Mistakes are not permitted in commercials. Usually, they give you a specific time (15 or 30 seconds) and you need to respect the timing. That means that every shot I do, I need to hit the time perfectly! I can't go one second less or over 30 seconds. It was hard at first, but I got used to it with time.



5. What are some projects you are looking forward to working on in the coming months?

I just finished working on an American feature film called Blood Red Christmas, and I'm really looking forward to the premiere next year. I have a lot of voice over work coming up this summer, and I’m really excited about this! It's something I have been looking to do for so long. I was thrilled when I learned that I was accepted into the voice over training in Montreal for UDA actors! This should keep me busy over the summer.

Thanks, Cleo!

Meet Marilyn Cortez, Actress

A New York actress who hails from Panama, Marilyn Cortez recently made a an appearance for several minutes as the nanny Marina in a new HBO series called Clear History, alongside Larry David and John Hamm. Marilyn also works as a stunt woman and has also done some work as a film producer. A graduate of Rhode Island College with a Bachelors in Marketing, Marilyn is currently learning Chinese. She is a martial artist, a yogi, a salsa dancer, and a globetrotter. Learn more about Marilyn by visiting her page on the Internet Movie Database.

1. How did you get started in acting?

I got started in acting when I was learning to speak English. I had already learned to read and write on my own, and I was comfortable speaking English to people I was used to, but when it came to new people I met I was very shy.

In actuality I was looking for public speaking classes, but where I lived at the time, in a small town between Boston and NYC, the choices for classes like that were none. I would either have to travel to Boston or NYC. The one thing I found abundantly were acting classes. So I signed up and took my first theater class and from there on, kept taking the next level theater class and so on. I met wonderful aspiring actors who would tell me about working on set here and there and how exciting it sounded, and this aroused my interested even more. So I started training more, and I had the privilege to do some theater work before moving on to film and television.

2. How did you get into doing work as a stunt woman, in addition to acting?

I got into stunt work by happenstance. I was on set working as a stand-in and I was offered to do stunt work for a film. From there I kept researching on how to get more stunt work. But word of mouth is great. Because one stunt coordinator would refer me to another stunt coordinator and the word spread. So, I still get calls for stunt work for films which is great because I love doing stunts as well.

3. What are some examples of stunts you've done for movies?

I've done stunts in the movies Underdog, R.I.P.D, and Hard Luck.

4. Would you tell us about your role in Larry David's new project, Clear History?

I was hired as the nanny, Marina. Everything was improvised; it truly was. The auditions were all improvisation. I went up against women who had way more experience than me at improv, and who were known in the community to belong to improv troupes. People tell me I am naturally funny, but I always thought it was because of my accent so I never quite gave it a second thought. But when I did the auditions for Clear History, I went in with an open mind and did not try to force myself to be funny. Basically I reacted to whatever Larry David threw at me.

Larry David at the end of one of the last callbacks, focused on my breasts a lot because of their size, and my reaction was just to go with the flow, and I made a comment that made him laugh. All was done respectfully, and when I left the room that day, I forgot about the audition, and heard from the casting director like five months later telling me I had the role.

Working on set with Larry David and John Hamm was exciting. I was working with the king of comedy and a truly professional actor such as John Hamm. They were both pleasant, down to earth, and normal people--and both helped me a lot that day as well. I met many other actors on set, too, some from SNL who were just down to earth people and easy going, and they also gave me career advice.

5. What are some other movies or TV appearances you have coming up?

Well, after Clear History I am being called in a lot more frequently for auditions. My latest one was Law and Order SVU and also in Los Angeles where I fly frequently I have been called in for Big Bang Theory. And in NYC I have a few auditions coming for independent films, and I am excited about these indie films because a few of those are bilingual films, Spanish and English. I have always wanted to work in a Spanish indie film. And there is a film on the works where I will be in, but I signed a confidentiality agreement and I can't mention anything about it.

Thanks, Marilyn!

Meet Radhaa Nilia, Filmmaker

Radhaa is a multi media artist with a background in indie film making and producing. Radhaa is also an actress, a model, and an energy healer. Radhaa enjoys spending time with her two dogs while being creative in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina, when she is not traveling to New York and Los Angeles for work. Radhaa has a deep love for animals and regularly rescues local dogs that are dumped in the forest, offering food, shelter, and energy work for them.

Radhaa leads a vegetarian lifestyle and practices yoga and meditation. Radhaa continues to write and create films that move, touch, and inspire through her production company Radhaa Nilia Productions. She has just released a film called Hope Cafe.

1. How did you get started in filmmaking?

I've always had an interest in filmmaking--acting, producing, and directing, too. I'm a multimedia artist by nature and it's my heart's passion to create.

I attended Southern Oregon University Producers Program and because of my desire to learn more, I found an internship at a production company at Sunset Gower studios. It was really cool going to the studio every day with my official pass, feeling like a part of a production company. I started out as a secretary and worked my way up to becoming a producer. There was nothing glamorous about it, though. I pretty much started doing everything under the umbrella of producing and I did it mostly as a solo, female, aspiring producer. I had to learn a lot of tough lessons!

I got to do it all, from casting, catering, and wardrobe styling, and I acted as a makeup artist and therapist on set; I had to learn to pull all the loose ends together with no additional budget at all and not much time to make it happen. It felt like wild makeshift producing, creating something out of thin air. I ended up completing four films that all got picked up for distribution. That was the reward.

I started to feel it was time to break free and create something on my own. My friend Vin Diesel was a really big inspiration for me at the time, and he encouraged me to work hard and get as much experience as I could.

I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could actually make a film on my own--even though I had no budget or backing when I started; I just had a dream, courage and endless drive to make it happen.

2. You have an impressive cast for a first-time filmmaker: how did this happen?

I have to say, it was amazing to have this caliber of talents and I would be happy to give you a rundown of our main actors.

Noel G, who plays Hector:

Noel G is such a talented actor and I really respect his work ethic. He has one hundred and eleven films and TV shows combined under his belt as of now including classics like Training Day, Fast & Furious, The Walking Dead, and The Dark Knight Rises. I am just so proud to have him as our main lead.

Noel is a full-time working actor and he gave his precious time and energy even though he was in the midst of multiple projects when I approached him. Noel made time to fly out to Ashland, Oregon for the scenes. I can't say enough good things about Noel. He is a great actor and so easy to work with. He may act like a gangster in films, but he is such a professional in real life. He also keeps the fun flowing and really made me laugh so much. I am really, really thankful I got to work with him.

Joseph Midyett, who plays Ray & the Homeless man:

Joseph Midyett at the time was working at the Shakespeare Festival Theatre in Ashland, Oregon. Playing two roles is not easy and he did above and beyond in both his roles in Hope Cafe. He even brought his own beard and props to play the homeless man, alongside Noel Gugliemi. That is one of my favorite scenes! In a turn of a hat, Joseph Midyett also plays the boss at the cafe and played the role of a creepy and sinister man. You can't recognize him at all; his whole energy, body language and facial expressions have shifted.

Any director would want him on their set because he makes it easy for other actors and is so emotionally intelligent with his combined instincts and intuition; he uses them all in his work. Joseph Midyett is one of the finest actors I have the pleasure of working with. His work makes me cry because it's just so good, and at the same time I celebrate what a true artist can really do. I know he has a big future and I look forward to working with him again.

F. Valentino Morales of Fast & Furious, who plays Marco:

I had known F. Valentino Morales for many years, through my friendship with Vin Diesel. He is a one-of-a-kind, genuine person. Valentino looks so big and strong and maybe even intimidating, but he is such a kindred soul, a very talented and a unique actor. We had been asking him for a very long time if he could play this role that we had wrote for him, but he had been so busy on location with Vin Diesel that we were not sure if he would be able to do it. But he kept his word and really came through for us. Before he became famous, Valentino had been through the process of making his own indie film with Vin, so he knows what it's like to be an indie filmmaker. He still had the passion and the heart for it, which a lot of people lose when they get to that level of success. I couldn't feel more blessed because he is so perfect for the role of Marco in Hope Cafe and I am so glad that he loves Hope Cafe as well. It was a big pat on the back from someone of his caliber. Be on the lookout for F. Valentino Morales as he is set to produce Fast & Furious 7!

Ayvee Baby, who plays Hayden:

Supporting actress Ayvee Baby is a beautiful woman with multi talents. She did a wonderful job playing the sassy Hayden. She helped me put together musical talents for Hope Cafe. She can sing, rap, and dance; it was fun!

We had some wild road trips together as we drove all the way to Oregon from LA and back a few times to shoot some scenes. We both laughed and definitely cried a few times throughout the making. I think it's safe to say we both learned a lot in the process and it is an experience we will always remember and can laugh about too. Besides acting, Ayvee is also a curvy model. You can find out more about her at: www.ayveebaby.me.

Asia's award-winning actor Raymond Bagatsing, who plays Pastor Miles:

Raymond Bagatsing is a celebrated actor in the Philippines and Asia. He is the equivalent of Brad Pitt in the Philippines' entertainment industry. His ability and range of creativity as an actor is mind-blowing! Raymond has received Asia's best actor award. I had the great opportunity to also work with him in other projects while he was in the USA. It is such an honor to work with someone as brilliant as he is. He can literally play any role and we are so proud to have him in Hope Cafe. He is now back in the Philippines on one of the hottest hit series. I can't get over how blessed we have been to have him play such an important role as Pastor Miles. It was not a role that anyone could just play. Raymond Bagatsing had the right spirit to play the role, as he is a very spiritual person, and that really comes through. He is a true inspiration with his craft. It's something to aspire to and I hope I get the opportunity to work with him again.

Multi-platinum producer Cool from Cool & Dre, who plays Diego:

Cool is a multi-platinum music producer, but he is just really down-to-earth and is very supportive of Hope Cafe. He took a chance on us and did his first cameo role. He was a good sport, and a fine actor. Though he is one of the industy's top music producers in working with Lil Wayne, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, and Queen Latifah to name a few, he was once an indie artist just like us. Cool worked really hard to get to the top of the industry starting from his garage, so he respects a hard work ethic. He said one thing that I always remember: "It doesn't matter where you start as long as you keep going and never give up 'cause some way, some how you're gonna get there."

That is why he gave us a chance and came out to show his love and support for our project. I'm so grateful and happy that he could grace us with his presence in Hope Cafe.

Mindy Tiry, who plays Beatrice:

Beatrice was a very special character that we created, played by Mindy Tiry. She is a wise, loving, and non-judgemental character. It was hard to cast someone who embodied all these qualities, but Mindy Tiry brought her to life. I actually met Mindy in a memoir writing class many years ago in Oregon, and she happens to be one of the most interesting people I have ever met. I couldn't help but think of her when we were doing casting. This was her first acting role, but she is such a natural actress and it was so easy and comfortable to work with her.

Rapper Phil The Agony, who plays Noel's brother:

Phil The Agony is a music artist, rapper, and a great actor too. He is a big name in the underground hip hop world. He was also behind-the-scenes in creating parts of the music for Hope Cafe. He has a natural charm on screen and has an authenticity that shines through. One of my favorite scenes of his is with Pastor Miles (Raymond Bagatsing)--it's very heartfelt. For being a hardcore rapper, he shows his vulnerability as he ask Pastor Miles to pray for him and his brother. It's a real moment that touches the heart, and a reminder that no matter how tough or indifferent we may act on the outside, at the end of the day we all need love and compassion.

Finally, the role of Larissa is played by myself, Radhaa Nilia:

I auditioned many actresses to play this role, but casting someone to realize my vision of her did not match what I had in mind, so I ended up having to play her last minute. It was so fun acting Larissa! She is a feisty Latina and the complete opposite of Jade. She is not afraid to fight back and say what's on her mind. Many people have told me that Larissa stole their heart and the show and wished that she had more screen time. You never know; she may reappear again!

I want to tell you: it takes a lot of people to put a film project together on any level, and of course I want to give gratitude and a shout out to every single person that has given their support in the making of Hope Cafe. It's been a long journey, and you know who you are: many thanks to you!

I have to say, it an honor to have this caliber of diverse talents.

3. What is Hope Cafe about, what inspired you to make it, and how is diversity an important part of the film?

We live in a very diverse world and that diversity is growing more every day. Growing up, I never saw multi-ethnic role models in Hollywood whom I could identify with. That was a really big challenge for me growing up, and made me with feel really left out. I want to celebrate diversity. It's a beautiful thing to work with people of different backgrounds and ethnicities and that is something to be really proud of.

We started to create an outline for the film and a story of someone that seemed all too familiar kept coming up. I started to realize that this film is based on a real life story and was being manifested through the writing.

One main character stood out, and her name was Jade.

There was something about her: she was a young woman with many disappointments in her life and though she felt like giving up, she kept searching for that "something" that would keep her alive.

Jade is someone who had lost everything, including her faith, but still has that glimmer of hope inside her that keeps her going.

There was something therapeutic about bringing this character back to life. I found a sense of healing and completion in this process. The need to tell this woman's story was the driving force behind this film. She and her daughter have passed away in real life, but in the film I could create an ending that makes me happy. If you really want to know the story, then watch the film. That's as much as I can tell you!

4. I see you are also a model, and that you do energy work, too. How do you balance these pursuits with your film work, too?

Modeling is something that is lighthearted and fun for me in contrast to the hard and sometimes gut-wrenching work of indie filmmaking. When I get to model, I don't have to think much, and I just get to dress up and play.

I enjoy modeling: it is so nice for me to go on set and have my makeup done by a professional makeup artist, designer jewelry and clothes perfectly ready to go. I walk in and catering and hot coffee greets me in the morning. To have everything set up professionally for me makes the shoot a real treat, and I never ever take that for granted.

Doing healing energy work is a whole other level. It gives me a constant perspective, and it's very rewarding. It's one of the best gifts in my life, and keeps me balanced and sane. There is that part of me that is very nurturing and caring, and I get to express and share that in a healing session with someone who is also ready to receive that kind of energy. There is a time and place for everything. I love this work which adds depth and meaning in my life.

I don't mind having a life of contrast because I know as I continue to make more films it will get easier and I know more support will be available to help make this process flow with more grace and ease. I really put everything on the line to achieve my goals. I'm not frivolous; I really just reinvest my resources right back into my projects with Radhaa Nilia Productions. It's my baby and I look forward to the future when I can make a profit, but for now I continue to put my time, energy and money where my heart is, in filmmaking.

5. With the internet allowing you to sell copies of your film, are you centering your publicity efforts on getting the film screened at festivals, or reaching individuals who might buy a DVD copy of your film--or both of these?

We are doing both. We are so honored that Hope Cafe was officially selected at a few film festivals, such as the Golden Door International Film Festival, Oct 10-13th 2013, in New Jersey. Tickets are available at http://goldendoorfilmfestival.org.

Hope Cafe has also been invited to Indie Fest and has the honors of being the first film for the opening night in honor of Latin & Multi Ethnic Filmmakers October 24th-27th in Garden Grove California. Tickets at: http://www.indiefestusa.com.

We would love it if you would join us, but you don't have to wait to see Hope Cafe! You can buy a copy at www.radhaaniliaproductions.com.

Thank you so much for taking the time and supporting my dream as an indie female filmmaker!

Thanks, Radhaa!

Meet Celeste Thorson, Actress, Model, Writer, and Director

The beautiful, young actress Celeste Thorson has been seen on TV shows like How I Met Your Mother, The Exes, and Jimmy Kimmel Live. With creative talent behind the scenes, she has also written 24 episodes of television, seven new media episodes, and three short films. Aside from winning her a cameo in a Rolling Stones music video, her model looks have earned her campaigns for Paul Mitchell, Yoplait, Sprint, and many other top clients along with magazines and billboards worldwide.

Learn more about Celeste on her official Facebook page, as well as her page at the Internet Movie Database.

1. How did you get your start in the entertainment industry?

I was inspired to work in the entertainment industry after collaborating with artists, photographers, and directors from around the world. I just became so motivated to create something new every day and express my artistic aspirations through art in many mediums. Now I perform on camera as well as developing ideas as a screenwriter and director.

2. What do you enjoy most about writing for film and TV, and what do you find most challenging about it?

I enjoy taking a creative idea or story and bringing it to life. It's so fulfilling and exciting to see how it will grow. It's awesome to collaborate with many different artists in production and see them do what they love and put their stamp on it. It can be challenging to satisfy the expectations and timelines of production, but it's even more gratifying when you accomplish that goal.

3. What are a couple of behind-the-scenes aspects of modeling that people who see you in ad campaigns probably would never imagine?

I actually share a little bit of my personal behind the scenes stories on fashion diary at celestethorson.blogspot.com. I think most people don't realize it takes an army to put photoshoots and films or TV shows together. It also isn't always as glamorous as it often appears in the photo. Sometimes you see a gorgeous room, but in reality it's just a pretty set in a drafty warehouse. There are a lot of cheats in Hollywood, like if a dress doesn't fit in a photoshoot you may not zip it up in the back and just shoot from the front. Lots of Hollywood secrets involve duct tape.

4. Could you tell us about some of the projects you're currently working on?

I had a ridiculously good time filming Yogaphiles, an independent comedy series I wrote/produced/directed about a quirky class of L.A. yoga students that take life too seriously. We created some fun short episodes available at www.Yogaphiles.com, and more are rolling out Spring 2013.

5. How do you integrate your interests in activism with your busy career?

I love petitions and the idea of strength in numbers. One of my favorite hobbies is circulating petitions online to raise awareness and change policies. I like to tweet with fans to share causes and charities we're passionate about from @celestethorson. Activism will always be big part of my life and something I hope to share with others for as long as I'm able.

Thanks, Celeste!

Meet Anna Elizabeth McGrath, Actor

Anna Elizabeth McGrath graduated from university in 2010 and began acting professionally in Dublin, Ireland immediately after this. She started out in theatre but has moved into television and film. She loves working in TV and film, even more so than the theatre because every day you are doing something different, and it is always fun and exciting.

1. As a known theatre actress in Ireland, what has the process been like for you to transition into TV and movie work?

When it comes to the transition itself, it has been very easy and enjoyable. I love the theatre and always saw myself as a theatre actress, but there is so much film and TV work out there these days that I eventually fell into working in front of the camera, almost by accident. It turns out I absolutely love film and television; I love being in front of the camera; I love doing something different all the time. I now consider myself a film and television actress rather than a theatre actress. What is strange about being known as a theatre actress is that I still get people coming up to me on the street in Dublin trying to work out where they know me from. I have a million films running through my head where they might have seen me, and then they exclaim, "Oh! You were in Hamlet!" or "Oh, you’re the girl from Savage In Limbo!". It is funny because I would have always assumed that it would be the exact opposite, that people would always be recognized for their film work and never for their stage work.

2. What are the benefits of making short films for actors, writers, and directors?

There are many benefits to making short films. They are a great training ground for making features, especially for writers and directors. You have exactly the same scenario including all the problems and complications that go with it on a micro-scale. From an actor's point of view, doing shorts has its pros and cons. A major pro is that you are doing something different all the time. If you do a succession of shorts, you are always working on a different character, in a different scenario. The downside is that you don't get nearly as much time to work on your character as you would with a feature as the turnaround is usually pretty quick with short films.

3. Would you tell us about the three short films you've recently completed?

I wrapped on three short films recently. The first was called Revenge, which is a film about someone who suffers at the hands of their noisy neighbor in an apartment block. It is all about the revenge that she wreaks upon the noisy neighbor. It was screamingly hilarious to shoot, and I think it will be fabulous when it finally comes out. The second one I did was Capturing Beauty, which is a mobile phone short, shot entirely on Android and iPhone devices. It was about how we capture absolutely everything that goes on around us in the world with our mobile/cellular devices, perhaps at the expense of living our lives. The last one was called Lucky Strike although the name may change. This one is about two female friends. One is down and out and has just lost her job. The other one (me) buys her a scratch card--a winning scratch card. The film is about how the dynamic in the relationship changes and what the etiquette is when someone buys you a winning ticket. I loved doing all three; the comedies in particular are always a lot of fun to shoot.

4. What's your character like in the new full-length film, The Smoker and the Dame Who Wore Red Shoes?

I play the lead villain in The Smoker and the Dame Who Wore Red Shoes. She was described by my director as a "replicant-like, humanoid creature." She is beautiful to the point of perfection, beautiful in a very plastic way. She is not a human being; she doesn’t experience emotion in the same way you would expect a human being to experience emotion. It's there, but emotion is something to be controlled and used. She is intent on destroying the protagonist of the film, but the further along the protagonist gets to his goal, the more her ability to control her emotional center starts to fail. It was a very different part to play. I often get cast as a villain, but I've never filmed anything like this before. I've always had a very human core to my character despite all the flaws. My director told me to take her up to 110%, and if it was over the top, he would scale me back. I just let it all out: I was worried it would be over the top, but he didn't need to scale me back. I loved it; it was such a different experience playing her.

5. What are you currently working on, and what are your goals as an actor for 2013 and beyond?

At the moment I am working on a script called The Burning of Bridget Cleary about a woman from County Tipperary in Ireland who was burnt alive by her husband in 1895 as he suspected that she was a faerie changeling. That is, he suspected that the faeries had stolen his wife and left a faerie in her place. It is a true story and absolutely blood-curdling. I can't wait to shoot it. I've also just been sent a script about an oppressed woman from the 60s in Ireland, also based on a true story. It's amazing how much society can screw people up. I can't really say anything more about it yet until it gets greenlighted, but I would die to play the role. So fingers crossed!

Thanks, Anna!