Lara Wolf
Introducing GMARO Magazine Celebrity Edition Vol.53 July 2024, featuring the talented actress and writer, Lara Wolf!
Dive into the captivating world of Lara Wolf, who graces our July 2024 issue. Known for her dynamic performances and compelling storytelling, Lara opens up about her latest project in the "sword-and-scandal" genre, directed by the legendary Roland Emmerich.
Don't miss this exclusive interview and get inspired by Lara Wolf's incredible journey. Grab your copy of GMARO Magazine's Celebrity Edition Vol.53 now!
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Actress & Writer - Lara Wolf @laradwolf
IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5266794
Website - https://iamlarawolf.com
Photos - Sharon Daniels
PR - ICON PR @icon_pr
What attracted you to the "sword-and-scandal" genre, particularly with a show directed by Roland Emmerich?
I'm enamored with the genre, and it was actually the first time I auditioned for it. The moment I read through the audition sides, I was captivated. Robert Rodat's writing really stood out; the dialogues were intelligent and forward-driving. That, together with the idea of Roland Emmerich, renowned for his grand explosions in sci-fi and action-packed disaster movies, lending his distinctive touch to an ancient period drama, was very intriguing.
How do you think the series draws parallels between ancient gladiator entertainment and modern forms of entertainment?
Despite the 2000 years that have passed, it's interesting to see that there are still some of the same values we seem to be pursuing. While entertainment, as in live sports, is not as bloody and deadly anymore, humans are still spectacle-driven sensationalists. I think the dopamine high that comes from shock, conflict, tension, and suspense is just part of how we are programmed. The idea of having a hero translates today into a celebrity and the communal sensation of experiencing a game or a fight seems the exact same. Both are driven by economic interests. Gladiatorial games were sponsored by wealthy individuals or the state, and today's entertainment industry is largely fueled by revenue from ticket sales, advertising, merchandise, etc. Ultimately, I'm glad we seem to have evolved ethically, but I still question ultra-violent video games or films…
What similarities do you find between yourself and Queen Berenice?
While preparing for Queen Berenice, I couldn't help but think of my Iranian grandma. She divorced my grandfather back in the '50s in Tehran, threw the ring down the drain, and raised three kids on her own. Obviously, she had her reasons to do that. But that was unheard of at the time and must have been controversial. However, she had a strong inner moral compass and a heart of gold. She did everything to protect her children and give them a good life. Similarly, Queen Berenice's actions were considered controversial, and despite the public scrutiny, she did what she had to do to protect her people from the Romans. Talk about strong women!
What strategies do you use to maintain authenticity in your roles?
You know immediately if you connect with a character. It's in the writing, in the way the character talks, the tone, and the rhythm. And I bet if I ever accept a part that I'm not comfortable with, you'll be able to see it. The camera doesn't lie. So, feeling comfortable with the characters you're playing and not judging them but trying to find their humanity helps me maintain authenticity.
Can you discuss the influence of your mentors, Paul Calderon, and David Zayas, on your acting and writing?
Paul and David are the co-artistic directors of the Primitive Grace Theatre Ensemble in NYC. Not only are they incredible artists themselves, but their encouragement and creative input have deeply influenced the way I approach my work. Their free and provocative way of writing and acting is contagious and reminds me a lot of why I got into acting in the first place. Fearless and raw expression through a poem or another written word in the form of a scene or a play is invaluable for both the writer and the performer because it's a safe environment where everyone encourages everyone. I am so inspired by both of them and their story, and I love their creative process, feedback, and guidance. I am very grateful for them to be part of this journey.
What was your experience like working as a fitness model and television host before fully transitioning into acting?
Honestly, at the time, I was studying psychology, and I knew that if I wanted to go to New York to study acting, I needed a side gig! So I did all sorts of things on the side: worked in a bar (not my strength), tutored kids, translated...But then, through a coincidence, I got the chance to start fit modeling, followed by working as a TV host. I could have actually just continued on that path and lived a comfortable life, but I had my heart set on acting. And I'm sure everyone who's ever felt passionate about something knows how difficult it is not to pursue it.
What role does wellness play in your life, and how do you advocate for it in the entertainment industry?
It is pivotal to me. Wellness and performance go hand in hand. It's emotional, mental, and physical wellness, and one affects the other and ultimately dictates how well you'll perform. Let's say I'm very tired. There is a bigger possibility that I'll have some negative thoughts, and if I don't catch them fast enough and track them back to the lack of sleep, they will slowly morph into anxiety, which again won't let me get enough sleep…on and on it goes. You can apply this to anything and any industry, but I think ours is especially volatile and competition-heavy. So, for me personally, the basic things are more than enough: getting 7 hours of sleep, eating healthy, meditating, and exercising. That, and surrounding myself with people who understand me and support what I do. That's huge for my wellness and where my mind feels playful and is ready to work creatively.
What impact do you hope to have on audiences with your portrayal of Queen Berenice?
This role of Queen Berenice meant a lot to me. It was an honor to be offered and trusted with this part by the director and the producers. I'm hoping I could do her justice and bring to light who she was and what incredible importance she carried in securing the Romans' favor toward her people.
What inspired you to move from Zurich to New York to pursue acting?
A little golden NYC snow globe! My mom and I flew to Florida when I was 12 to visit my aunt, with a stopover at JFK. That's where my mom bought me the snow globe, and I simply decided I would be living here at some point. Strange, right? JFK is not exactly pretty on the eyes. But 'pretty' was not what I was going for. I loved movies like THE CROW. Growing up in Switzerland, I believe I was yearning for a little bit of chaos and imperfection, which was living inside of me, and I needed to find a healthy and non-self-destructive outlet. I needed to free myself from certain beliefs on how to live my life. And don't get me wrong, I love Zurich, and I miss my friends and family (thankfully, there is FaceTime). But if you want to be a performing artist, you need to surround yourself with that creative energy, and a place like NYC allows you to do exactly that.
What was it like working with director Eran Riklis on "Reading Lolita in Tehran"?
I have the utmost respect for Eran. He is a wonderful director who allows the actor to breathe. For Reading Lolita In Tehran, he held auditions all over the globe and ended up flying to different countries to get a feel for the actors. He cares deeply about finding the right actors. He had me read for four different parts. And it was incredible to see that he would shoot a film in a language he doesn't even speak and yet always heard when something sounded off or different.
How do you stay grounded in an industry known for its highs and lows?
I think, at least with me, it's less' staying grounded' and more about constantly regrounding myself. It's almost like a soccer ball you're trying to hold underwater, and the moment you let go of it, it'll shoot up to the surface. In case that didn't make sense, the moment I stop doing the work, I stop being grounded. It's constantly reminding myself to breathe properly, relax my shoulders, unclench my jaw, and catch negative thoughts as they swirl around and let them go. And while I don't think being grounded — same as being happy — is a permanent state, maybe I am more grounded overall than I was five years ago because I keep trying. So, having my specific practice is invaluable to me.
Can you share how you've seen the industry evolve in terms of diversity and inclusion?
Just watching how far the industry has come regarding diversity in the past ten years is remarkable. Then again, those are the only ten years I've been part of it. And even in my case, it's been interesting. I used to be labeled as too "exotic." It sounded like a compliment very early on, but it soon became apparent that it was more about not fitting into any category. It definitely impacted my opportunities in casting. The tag "ethnically ambiguous" also doesn't sit right with me; it implies confusion and feels like a shaky approach to categorization. I can assure you - there is not more ambiguity in me than in other people. But I have felt a shift from the industry to a more open-minded and inclusive casting process, and that's certainly a step in the right direction.
