Actress Katie C’etta recently walked the red carpet of awesomeness as she celebrated her lead in the independent film, “Unwavering”, at The Main Street Theater in Columbia, Ohio. C’etta’s character, Sarah, is being held hostage by a terrorist organization, and as the group attempts to defect her, the film undulates through various flashback points in her life in where she pulls strength from her faith and relationships in order to resist a regime that haunts her very existence.
The film is currently in distributor negotiation and will run in select Pittsburgh and Ohio theaters.
C’etta, who now jet sets between California and Pittsburgh, sat down with LOCALpittsburgh to talk more about her role, the life of an indie actress, and of course, her weapon of choice, the ukulele.
Tell us a little about your character?
Sarah was an amazing character to spend some time working on. She has a very timid disposition, an intellectual mind, and a strong stance on her beliefs. When she’s tested by the most difficult circumstances, she struggles with her faith inwardly yet recognizes the importance of staying true to who you are and what you believe.
What strengths does she exhibit?
Sarah loves her family and her fiancé. Throughout the film you will see this timid character bravely fight back in moments of passion when she is reminded of the love she has for her family and for Christ.
How do you think this role relates to your personality and belief system?
I believe that when a person connects to a higher power they can accomplish incredible things and often surprise themselves. Sarah and I both have a very strong stance on our spirituality.
What made you say yes to the part?
When I got the call from my director Josh Menning, I was truly caught off guard. I remembered having an awesome vibe in the audition room but the idea of being offered such a large role wasn’t something I predicted. I wanted the challenge of a character with so much going on for her and I wanted the challenge of shooting an entire feature film in 10 days as the lead actor. This part helped me grow as an actor and as a professional.
What has acting done for you on a personal level?
When people usually think of acting they typically immediately relate it to stardom. That just isn’t the reality. Acting is a craft. It is art. It is so intensely personal that you have to be brave enough to let your characters have enough of you to make them feel real. In order to do that you have to be brave enough to truly get to know all the different sides of yourself. Through my time as an actor so far I’ve grown as a human being so much more from having to constantly be honest with myself.
What’s the most challenging part of being an actress?
To be an actor you have to make a lot of sacrifices. It’s really a job you have to marry and make your number one priority. If there is anything else in the world you can see yourself doing, do that. If there isn’t, be an actor but be prepared to make the craft your number one priority.
Favorite actor and actress?
My favorite actresses are Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore and Amy Adams. These women have careers that truly inspire me. Recently, I’ve been watching a lot of Sean Penn to learn about how he creates such convincing and different characters in each of his performances. So right now my favorite actor based on performances is Sean Penn.
Favorite Film?
My favorite film is The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring. This film is the reason I first wanted to make films.
Least Favorite Film?
Sharknado, maybe?
A few things about yourself that not many people know.
I live for gourmet red velvet cupcakes.
I play the ukulele and sing, sort of.
I am a first generation college graduate.
I often daydream of selling all my things and being a nomad.
And there you have it, Sharknado is pretty horrific. For more information on Katie C’etta, visit her website, and details on “Unwavering” can be found here.