We got the chance to have a word with Danielle Chuchran! You may think, “who’s she?” – but she’s already played in a remarkable amount of movies and TV shows for her age, among them Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat (2003), and also auditioned for the role of Katniss in The Hunger Games, which she didn’t get, but just watch this short film – you can’t deny she wouldn’t have been an awesome Katniss. I remember seeing that video back before the movie came out and I was really impressed!
All in all, it was a pleasure to hear what this young woman has to say about the Hollywood industry, and the challenges it has posed her. Enjoy reading the interview.
The Interview
Manon de Reeper for FilmInquiry: Hi Danielle, thanks very much for taking the time to do this interview with us! We understand you must be busy, as an ambitious young actress trying to make it in the film industry.What is that like for a young woman?
Danielle Chuchran: Sadly it’s such a rough industry for women in particular. I feel like a lot of films and people in general view women as an object. Little do they know we’re extremely capable 😉 It’s been so refreshing to see all these films and projects coming out recently with strong female characters that can hold their own next to the leading men of Hollywood.
MDR: What has been the biggest challenge for you?
DC: The biggest challenge for me personally has been remaining positive when things don’t go the way I want them to. It’s tough to retain your confidence when project after project comes along that you aren’t right for in someone else’s opinion – especially when you feel that you can really bring a lot to a character but just weren’t that one person’s vision.
Danielle Chuchran
MDR: Yeah, I can imagine that must be hard. What, on the other hand, is the coolest thing that has happened to you so far?
DC: Honestly, there’s no one thing that I can classify as the “coolest”. It’s been a crazy yet amazing road thus far. ONE of the coolest things is all of the incredibly talented people I’ve been able to work and collaborate with.
MDR: We learned you moved to Utah when you were young, and did some promotional film work for the Latter-Day Saints. Are you a Mormon yourself? Has it ever affected your acting career?
DC: I am a Mormon 🙂 I don’t feel that being a “Mormon” has truly affected my career. I was raised by amazing parents who were converts to the church, and from a very young age they instilled in me the value of having standards and morals. There are certainly things that I won’t do in films but it is because of my personal choices that I chose not to do so, not because of my religion.
MDR: Why did you want to become an actress?
DC: I wanted to become an actress because I LOVE IT! Every part of it. I loved the thought of having that creative outlet to explore so many different emotions and giving a part of myself to each character I portray. I love the work, the long days, the unity you feel with the crew and the other cast members , the struggles, the exploration, and the creativity.
MDR: What advice would you give other young girls who want to become an actress?
DC: If it’s your dream, then fight for it. Don’t give up. This is such a tough business and it takes a strong being to be a part of it. Value your self worth. There are tons of people that are going to try their hardest to knock you down, just remember it’s just one more kick in the teeth… as Papa Roach would say.
MDR: I like that you quote Papa Roach! Thanks for being so open with us. Let’s move on to some lighter stuff. Who in the film industry would you most want to work with?
DC: There are a bazillion people that I hope to work with one day. The first one that comes to mind is… of course the lovely Kate Beckinsale. She is just such a cool mama! Talk about a Bad A! She just seems like a really down to earth, awesome talented person. Also, Ridley Scott is such a talented man and I am such a fan of his work. Those are just two of many.
Danielle Chuchran as Katniss in the Katniss & Rue The Hunger Games short
MDR: What are some of your own favorite movies?
DC: Ohhhh good question, also tough question. I have my favourite movies depending on what I’m in the mood for. But here are a few classics in my house hold.
Warrior, Pearl Harbor, 3:10 to Yuma, Pretty Woman, Seabiscuit, Gladiator, Runaway Bride, 300, King Arthur, Despicable Me 1&2, Spirit… JUST to name a few haha
Favorite TV shows: Sons of Anarchy, American Horror Story, Vikings, Criminal Minds, Family Guy, Archer, Ridiculousness.
MDR: Awesome! Thanks so much for taking the time to chat with us, Danielle. What else can you tell us – what can we expect from you in the future?
DC: Well, hopefully there are many fun projects in store in the near future. But as of right now I am working on a few really fun films which I will be able to spill more about later!
Danielle has a high aim – she may just show up in a big film in the near future! We wish you all the best of luck with your Hollywood career, Danielle!
You can find more information about Danielle and her work on her IMDb page!
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