Interview: Courtney Akbar (Circus Road, Devoured, Astro)

1. When did you decide that you wanted to work in film and what was your first role?

I decided I wanted to be an actress at a very young age, I would say the moment I learned that it was an option of what I could be when I grew up. My first role was as a coroner’s secretary, a job that I would definitely not want to have in real life haha

2. Tell us a little bit about Circus Road. What character do you play in the film and what is she like?

Circus Road is a creepy/scary killer clown movie that has a gritty real life feel. In this film my character is Kat, the only daughter of the Clownie Cult leaders Tiny Clown and Myrtle, which makes for a real interesting character! She tries really hard to be as normal as she can but her family makes that near impossible for her. Kat is cute, quirky, rebellious, and has a killer love for shoes.

3. Who are some of your influences?

I have been heavily influenced over the years by Angelina Jolie, Charlize Theron, Sandra Bullock, Brie Larson, and Viola Davis to name a few. All of them are very versatile actresses and have inspired for me through their work and their passion for film. I rewatch many of their past films for inspiration and to see these powerful women mastering our craft.
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4. What is your favorite movie of all time?

This is the hardest question ever because I honestly can’t choose just one! A few that stand out in my mind at this moment are Pulp Fiction, Tommy Boy, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. I could watch any of these movies at any time because I like them so much and I won’t ever get tired of them!

5. What would be your dream role?

I would say my dream role is to be an invaluable part of a project that becomes unforgettable and timeless. A project with an impactful message that anyone, any age, can understand and relate to; something that will challenge me as an actress and teach and inspire those who watch it to be better and want better, to live happier and more fulfilling lives. That’s my dream.

6. If you could work with anyone in the industry who would it be?

I would really love to work with and for Quentin Tarantino. I have watched, and will rewatch, many of his films. His vision and style of storytelling is so wonderfully unique and the fact that his films are very character driven is extremely desirable as an actress.

7. What would you say was the scariest movie ever made?

In my opinion, The Exorcist (1973). I watched it (without permission) for the first time when I was about 6 years old and I had nightmares for about a month. I’ve rewatched it maybe a handful of times since because it still creeps me out! A lot of people I know feel the same way about this movie.

8. In addition to acting you have also written and produced as well. Which do you prefer and why?

I truly love acting, it’s my passion. I love expressing myself as different characters and having the ability to put myself in someone else’s shoes (almost literally). Being able to express myself so intensely and genuinely that someone else feels what I am feeling is indescribable. The happiness I feel after nailing a scene is intoxicating! I learn so much about myself and people after every project that I’m always yearning for the next one to learn more and experience more. I respect all aspects of filmmaking and enjoy collaborating with writers and directors as an actress. Writing is very expressive and is the root of all projects but I enjoy acting it out on screen more than I enjoy sitting and writing it.

9. What is your personal favorite role you have played so far and why?

I would have to say Kat! She’s so dynamic and was really an all-around great role with a tremendous character arc in the film. I feel as though I was able to showcase a lot of my talents and flexibility on screen through her. I think I prepared the most for this role because I really wanted to understand where she was coming from mentally and how she makes her decisions. Kat is truly a part of me forever now.

10. Do you have any phobias or anything that creeps you out?

No phobias but I’m not a fan of the typical roaches and spiders lol

11. What projects are you currently working on?

Right now I am working on a tv pilot called “Paradise Apartments”. This is a really timely and inclusive show that the world needs to see. It deals with many serious social issues with a funny, comedic twist in each episode.

12. Is there anyone you’d like to give a shout out to?

Hey Mom! Hey Dad! Haha, but really, shout out to God too for giving me this life!
Also, a HUUUUGE shout out to all of my fans that support me and my aspirations!

13. Where can people find you online? Do you have a personal website, Facebook, Twitter, etc account where people can find you?

I’m an Instagram girl all the way! I love my insta-fam! I don’t use twitter and Facebook just hasn’t clicked for me. I love my fans that I have from around the insta-world and it’s easy to connect with me there. I’m a real person and I like having it available to interact with my fans on a personal level.

Thanks!