She played inJackie Perez’s Dollar BabyBeachworldas Shapiro.
SKSM:Could you start with telling me a little bit about yourself? Who are you and what do you do?
Samantha Cutaran:I’m a Filipino-American actress born and raised in California. I studied acting atNYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, graduating with a BFA in theatre before returning to Californina to pursue film and television.
SKSM:When did you know you wanted to become an actress?
Samantha Cutaran:My first introduction to the stage was actually through dance. My high school boyfriend was in a local production in the Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe and they wanted a dancer for one of the roles. They offered me the role and from there, that theater began giving me speaking roles and I’ve been acting since.
SKSM:How did you become involved inBeachworldDollar Baby film?
Samantha Cutaran:A mutual friend of mine and the director’s, Tom McCafferty (who plays Rand in the film) emailed me the casting notice forBeachworld. I read the logline and was immediately interested. I put my audition on tape, sent it to Jackie and the rest is history.
SKSM:What do you think it is about the story that attracts people so much?
Samantha Cutaran:I think many people fantasize about what the future will be like and this is one scenario that may resemble one of their hypothetical versions.
SKSM:Did you have to audition for the part or was it written directly for you?
Samantha Cutaran:Yes, I had to audition for the film.
SKSM:You worked withJackie Perezon this film, how was that?
Samantha Cutaran:Jackie was fantastic to work with. She really had a vision and was constantly communicating with the DP, cast and crew. She created a wonderfully supportive and focused environment.
SKSM:Was there any funny or special moment when they made the movie that you would like to tell me about?
Samantha Cutaran:There was a point when they told me to just keep walking all by myself through the sand dunes for about 20-30 minutes and the drone would follow me. There was no around me and it was so peaceful.
SKSM:Do you still have any contact with the crew/cast from that time? If so with who?
Samantha Cutaran:I actually worked with the DP, Sarah Phillips again on another film a few months after wrappingBeachworld. Tom is good friends with my boyfriend, so I still stay in contact with him.
SKSM:What are you working on nowadays?
Samantha Cutaran:I just finished filming an episode ofSEAL Teamon CBS. I am also collaborating with some friends to create a short film.
SKSM:Are you a fan of Stephen King’s work?
Samantha Cutaran:Honestly, I’m a bit of a wimp when it comes to scary/horror films/books. I enjoy filming them but I definitely have nightmares when I read or watch them. Nonetheless, what I have read of his work, I’ve enjoyed becasue he’s a great storyteller.
SKSM:What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Samantha Cutaran:I was quite shy when I was younger and was terrified to be in front of large groups of people.
SKSM:Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. Is there anything you want to say to the fans that read this interview?
Samantha Cutaran:Thank you for reading and check out Beachworld when it comes out later this year.
SKSM:Do you like to add anything else?
Samantha Cutaran: Be kind and treat people, animals and nature with respect. Also, just enjoy life!
