Award Winning Filmmaker & Actress, Loren Escandón
What inspired you to take on the role of Rose in the Netflix film SHIRLEY?
Well, when I first auditioned for the part, I have to admit, I didn't know much about Shirley Chisholm or her incredible story. It's interesting how sometimes these moments of unawareness lead us to the most profound discoveries. Shirley's journey is one that should resonate with and be known by everyone, regardless of where they come from. She's a trailblazer who carved a path not just for herself but for generations of women and women of color in politics. And hey, look at where we are now with someone like Kamala Harris as VP – that's Shirley's legacy right there. So, diving into this project wasn't just about playing a character; it was about being part of something much bigger than myself. Plus, getting to collaborate with talents like Regina King, Terrence Howard, and the late Lance Reddick, all under the guidance of visionary John Ridley, is the stuff dreams are made of.
Filmmaker & Actress - Loren Escandón @lorenescandon
Publicist: Heliotype Creative @heliotypecreative
Photographer: Paula Neves @ttlens
Wardrobe Stylist: Jose Ramos
Makeup Artist: Danilo Cifuentes @makeupbydaniloc
Hair Stylist: Arend Jackson @arend.jackson
How do you prepare for roles that require deep historical and cultural understanding, such as your character in SHIRLEY?
My character was fictional but based on the Latino labor leaders of the time who were community organizing, marching, and relying on non-violent resistance. Rose voices the struggle of the Latino workers who, at the time, were fighting for labor rights and civil rights. The struggle of Latino workers and Black Americans was extremely similar; it feels like it still is. This parallel intrigued Shirley, especially since she spent most of her formative years in NYC, absorbing the realities of both groups.
To prepare, I delved into a deep educational journey. Growing up in Colombia, I had to familiarize myself with the historical context, politics of the United States, and the remarkable life of Shirley Chisholm. Once armed with this knowledge, I had a playground to craft my interpretation of this leader – understanding the challenging circumstances that propelled her into action and tracing her path to that pivotal moment in her activism.
Filmmaker & Actress - Loren Escandón @lorenescandon
Publicist: Heliotype Creative @heliotypecreative
Photographer: Paula Neves @ttlens
Wardrobe Stylist: Jose Ramos
Makeup Artist: Danilo Cifuentes @makeupbydaniloc
Hair Stylist: Arend Jackson @arend.jackson
What drew you to the character of Pastor Mariana in The Baxters, and how did you approach bringing her to life?
Pastor Mariana is very different from Loren, and it is always such a treat. I was terrified of playing a pastor. I grew up catholic, and the institution itself has been conflicting for me, as it has been for many, for some years. However, I am a person of profound faith. So, playing a woman of faith felt like an opportunity that life was presenting to me to reconnect and deepen into that aspect of me. I started going to Sarah Jakes Roberts church in LA, to observe the way she expresses her message. I admire that she is modern and very connected with her congregation. My Mariana is less fashionable, but I definitely wanted to create a character that was truly moved in every aspect of her life by her faith. And as always, actors kind of create a character on their own, but once on set, it's a group effort; I found a lot of support from the cast and directors of the show.
Pastor Mariana is very different from Loren, which is always such a treat. I was initially terrified of playing a pastor, given my upbringing in the Catholic faith and the conflicting feelings surrounding the institution. However, I am a person of profound faith, so portraying a woman of faith felt like a personal opportunity to reconnect and deepen that aspect of myself. To prepare for the role, I immersed myself in observing modern expressions of faith, attending Sarah Jakes Roberts' church in LA to understand how she connects with her congregation. My portrayal of Mariana may be less fashionable, but I aimed to create a character deeply moved by her faith in every aspect of her life. While actors often shape their characters independently, once on set, it becomes a group effort. I found tremendous support from the cast and directors of the show, which helped me bring Mariana to life in a way that felt truly authentic.
Filmmaker & Actress - Loren Escandón @lorenescandon
Publicist: Heliotype Creative @heliotypecreative
Photographer: Paula Neves @ttlens
Wardrobe Stylist: Jose Ramos
Makeup Artist: Danilo Cifuentes @makeupbydaniloc
Hair Stylist: Arend Jackson @arend.jackson
Can you share your experience about transitioning from the role in SHIRLEY to Pastor Mariana in The Baxters?
It was actually the other way around. I worked Pastor Mariana in the Baxters first, and then Rose. The characters are so different, but they have a lot of commonalities. They are both leaders in their communities, they are struggling with circumstances that are bigger than them, they are women that believe in equality and non-violence, and interestingly enough, they both have to witness the violence of the world they live in.
Mariana is a woman of faith, calm, and collected. Rose is a woman of action, fierce but still collected. So I feel Mariana's foundation was already fertile ground for Rose's creation. It was like building upon a solid base of understanding and empathy but then infusing it with each character's unique traits and challenges. It was a fascinating journey to explore these different facets of leadership and resilience within such distinct contexts.
Filmmaker & Actress - Loren Escandón @lorenescandon
Publicist: Heliotype Creative @heliotypecreative
Photographer: Paula Neves @ttlens
Wardrobe Stylist: Jose Ramos
Makeup Artist: Danilo Cifuentes @makeupbydaniloc
Hair Stylist: Arend Jackson @arend.jackson
What was it like transitioning from ballet to acting, and how has your ballet background influenced your acting career?
Ah, the journey from ballet to acting has been quite an adventure. I spent over 12 years at the National Ballet School in Colombia, starting when I was just eight years old. But as life often does, it led me down unexpected paths. When my body couldn't keep up with the demands of ballet anymore, I pursued studies in Literature and then tried for journalism. However, fate had other plans.
A couple of years later, when my school's theater program reopened, I realized that being on stage was where my heart truly belonged. It felt like finding my way back home after feeling a bit lost for a while. Looking back, I can see how my previous career choices were somehow influenced by that innate desire to tell stories, whether consciously or not.My ballet background has become an inseparable part of me. It's more than just dance; it's about discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Ballet and acting are both arts of storytelling, so my ballet training provided me with a solid foundation in understanding story structure, characters, and conventions. It taught me the value of hard work and endurance, and perhaps most importantly, it introduced me to the concept of "Redirection" – turning rejection into an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. So, while the transition wasn't always easy, I am grateful for the lessons learned along the way that continue to shape my acting career.
Filmmaker & Actress - Loren Escandón @lorenescandon
Publicist: Heliotype Creative @heliotypecreative
Photographer: Paula Neves @ttlens
Wardrobe Stylist: Jose Ramos
Makeup Artist: Danilo Cifuentes @makeupbydaniloc
Hair Stylist: Arend Jackson @arend.jackson
Can you talk about the challenges and rewards of portraying Marisol in Netflix's Purple Hearts?
My dear Marisol. She is the first single mother I've ever played, and that itself was a new experience for me. Marisol, an immigrant woman who had her child at a young age, essentially grew up alongside her daughter. She's a survivor, someone who realizes her dreams through her daughter's journey. It was important to me to do justice to the experiences of so many women like Marisol. I wanted the audience to see her, feel moved, and connect with her understanding and approach to motherhood.
Creating all the delicate nuances of Marisol was a laborious process, but the rewards were many. I had the privilege of working with one of the most generous and disciplined people I have ever met, Sofia Carson. Laughing with Nicholas Galitzine during his "get to know you" questions was a joy, and observing Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum's work as a director was a lesson in itself, from the audition process to on-set handling.
Being part of Purple Hearts was truly inspiring. And then, the cherry on top – we made history by climbing to Netflix's Top 10 most-watched films of all time, surpassing even Martin Scorsese's The Irishman. I still get chills thinking about it. Most importantly, there is the flood of DMs from people sharing stories about their relationships with their mothers and expressing how much Marisol meant to them – that's the best reward an actor can ask for.
What inspired you to move from Colombia to the United States, and how has this journey influenced your work?
As I embarked on these journeys, my perspective on the world, cultures, and stories expanded in ways I never imagined. It became evident that pursuing my dreams beyond the borders of Colombia was not only enticing but also a leap of faith worth taking. Additionally, at the time, opportunities in my country felt limited and often stereotypical for Afro-descendant artists, which pushed me to explore new horizons where I could find more inclusive opportunities in the entertainment industry.
However, what I didn't anticipate was that the issue of truthful inclusion and representation would be a global concern. Moving to a new country, where I didn't speak the language, with minimal finances, and knowing only one person, was a daunting yet transformative experience. Suddenly, I found myself navigating life as an immigrant and a woman of color, facing limitations in communication that were entirely new to me.
Yet, it was precisely these aspects of my journey – the struggles, the triumphs, the new facets of my identity – that deeply influence my artistry. I draw upon these experiences to infuse authenticity into my writing, to connect with my characters on a deep level, and to inform my approach to directing. Every aspect of my journey, every challenge I overcome, has become an integral part of my artistic expression, shaping the stories I tell and the way I connect with audiences.
Can you share more about your involvement in, Give Me An A?
Give Me An A is one of the most challenging and rewarding projects I've ever been a part of. It all began with the overturn of Roe v. Wade, which sparked a deep sense of concern among a group of women who gathered to grieve what felt like a regression in the women's rights movement. Out of this shared concern emerged a determination to respond creatively as artists and storytellers.
In a Zoom meeting, we decided to create a "reactionary tale" based on our personal perspectives of the matter. But we didn't want this to be just a thoughtful response; we wanted it to be visceral, immediate. So, we made the bold decision not to give ourselves much time to dwell on it. Instead, we dove into production simultaneously while still in pre-production.
Over the course of three intense weeks, we wrote stories, all while hustling to gather a cast and crew for 14 separate tales, convincing them of the importance of the cause, even if it meant working pro-bono. Just a month after that initial meeting, I found myself shooting my own story, "The Last Store," which I wrote and directed. I was incredibly fortunate to have the support of two extraordinary and generous artists, Gina Torres and Jason George, as well as my terrific friend and producer, Derrica Barbee.
Similar to my experience, many other stories found remarkable artists eager to join the project. There were tears shed and countless sleepless nights, but two months later, we had a finished anthology in hand. With that, we hit the road before the midterm elections, aiming to urge voters to comprehend the stakes involved in the Supreme Court decision.
While the film may not be for everyone, it serves as a powerful catalyst for thought, compelling audiences to consider the potential consequences of the changes being implemented. In the end, it was a project driven by passion, urgency, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
How do you maintain your mental and physical health amidst the pressures of your career?
Maintaining mental and physical health in this industry is a journey I've navigated with intention and care. For my mental well-being, I've built a robust support system that includes therapy, psychiatry, and holistic healing. I've learned to recognize when I'm drifting into rough waters, and I'm unafraid to seek help when needed.
Starting my day with meditation has become a non-negotiable ritual. Initially skeptical, I found my groove with meditations that incorporate movement, gradually easing into stillness. Now, it's an anchor that grounds me amidst the chaos.
On the physical front, I prioritize consistency. A healthy diet, coupled with my love for cooking, keeps me nourished. Exercise is woven into my daily routine, adapting to the ebb and flow of busy schedules. It's not always easy, but it's a commitment I make to myself every day.
How do you balance your work as an actress and filmmaker with your activism?
I don't see it as elements that need to be balanced. My acting and filmmaking are fundamental parts of my activism. Every story I write, direct, produce, or act in is rooted in social issues that deeply concern me, both as an artist and as a citizen. While the entertainment industry may be labeled as such, I firmly believe that TV, films, music, and the arts, in general, are powerful tools for education, influence, and creating change. For me, activism isn't something separate from my creative endeavors; rather, it's an integral part of the stories I choose to tell and the impact I hope to make through my work.
What advice would you give to young Afro-Latina women aspiring to enter the entertainment industry?
I identify as Afro-Colombian, however I navigate the Afro-Latina identity within the context of the United States, and I hope that future generations of actors find themselves in an environment where such definitive labels are no longer a hindrance to their narrative. I envision a world where being Afro-Latino doesn't limit the kinds of stories, roles, and projects they can be part of – where they can take pride in their identity without feeling confined to a singular narrative, and where they have the opportunity to climb ladders and become show runners, executives, studio owners.
In addition to this, I would offer the same advice to any aspiring artist entering this industry: hone your craft and be prepared for when opportunity comes knocking. Work diligently and ethically, show respect to everyone involved, and remember to have fun along the way. Given the challenges that may arise on this journey, it's crucial for every actor to prioritize their mental health. As artists, we often tap into our vulnerabilities, so establishing a mental health routine is indispensable.
Furthermore, don't wait for opportunities to come to you; create your own and share with others what you've learned along the way. Once you open a door, keep it open for those coming up behind you. This spirit of generosity and empowerment is what propels our industry forward and ensures that diverse voices continue to be heard and celebrated.
What role do you think art plays in addressing social issues?
Art, I believe, is deeply intertwined with empathy, making it a potent tool in addressing social issues. Throughout history, art has provided communities with a platform to express themselves, explore complex topics, and envision new solutions. Whether it's through installations, plays, performances, or music, art has a knack for reflecting societal realities and sparking meaningful conversations.
Even in the seemingly mundane, art often carries profound social messages. Artists understand the transformative power of their craft, using it to challenge norms, change perspectives, and inspire action. Essentially, art serves as a mirror to society, encouraging us to confront pressing issues and engage with them constructively. By harnessing the power of empathy and creativity, art can drive positive social change.
Can you share your experience working on series like The Messengers and Casa Grande?
The Messengers holds a special place in my heart as it marked my debut in the world of television series. It was both challenging and educational, and my introduction to the intricate workings of episodic television. I vividly remember the nervous excitement I felt when the director called "action" for the first time, realizing the immense effort and collaboration required to bring each episode to life. Unlike theater, where rehearsals are extensive, here it was a whirlwind of little rehearsal and multiple takes. I recall feeling a bit overwhelmed, especially with the sudden awareness of the camera's presence, but ultimately, the experience proved invaluable. What began as a one-scene co-star role unexpectedly evolved into a recurring character, a testament to the unpredictable nature of life in this industry.
As for Casa Grande, I approached it from a different perspective, having undergone personal growth that reshaped my outlook on life and my priorities. Set amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, filming in northern California meant being quarantined in a hotel far from loved ones. Yet, this isolation fostered a unique bond among the cast and crew, similar to the close-knit community depicted in the series. Despite the logistical difficulties, Casa Grande became more than just a project; it became a journey of friendship, collaboration, and mentorship, where I found both camaraderie and creative fulfillment.
How does it feel to see your work, like Los Patines, recognized with several awards?
The journey with Los Patines has been nothing short of transformative. I wrote this story years ago, drawing inspiration from my mother's childhood experiences as a domestic slave. It was a deeply personal tale, and directing it solo marked my first venture into the director's chair.
Anticipating the audience's reaction was daunting. The subject matter was highly sensitive and, sadly, still relevant today. However, what I discovered is that people are eager to connect with stories that shed light on realities they may not have considered before. Los Patines became a mirror reflecting a society willing to confront uncomfortable truths about the persistence of modern-day slavery, despite its supposed abolition.
To see my "little" film recognized with awards across the globe, from the UK to Nigeria, from New York to LA, has been immensely gratifying. It's been a journey of revisiting painful chapters of my family's history and, in many ways, a process of profound healing. Each accolade serves as validation that the stories we tell have the power to spark dialogue, challenge perceptions, and ultimately inspire change.
As an Afro-Latina in Hollywood, how do you navigate representation and ensure that diverse voices are heard?
First and foremost, diversity and representation are essential in any industry, particularly entertainment. Diversity serves as a pathway to empathy, a reflection of society, and an avenue for education. When I speak about diversity, I don't just mean race; it also encompasses sexual orientation, identity, class, culture, ethnicity, political beliefs, age, and religion.
Navigating representation in Hollywood is a complex journey. As an actress, I have limited control over the roles I audition for or am offered. However, I strive to choose characters that not only have flaws but also honor my cultural and racial background.
In my pursuit of accurate representation and diversity, I decided to explore writing and directing. I want to create narratives that reflect my own experiences while providing opportunities for talent to participate in stories they can identify with. By creating roles where we can lead casts, be heroes, and take pride in our identities, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive industry where diverse voices are truly heard. This, for now, is my way of navigating the issue.
How do you choose the causes you support, such as fighting hunger and advocating for mental health?
I gravitate towards causes that resonate with my own experiences and values. Growing up, my mother instilled in me the belief that sharing what we have with others is not just an act of kindness but a responsibility. Her words, "donde comen 3 comen 4" (where there is food for three, there is food for four), reminded me that not everyone has the privilege of a full belly, and it sparked a commitment to fighting hunger, especially among children. Inspired by her ideology, I engage in volunteering efforts, whether it's donating homemade meals to those in need or volunteering at local food banks and meal centers. These small acts of kindness collectively make a meaningful difference in combating hunger and supporting communities in need.
From an early age, I witnessed firsthand the impact of mental health struggles within my own family. Depression, anxiety, and various other challenges were not topics openly discussed in our society at the time. However, having had access to psychological support from a young age, I recognized the importance of breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues. My personal journey with therapy taught me that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing.
Thus, I choose to advocate for mental health awareness and support initiatives, aiming to destigmatize conversations around mental illness and encourage others to seek the help they need without shame or judgment. Trauma is a part of the human experience, and addressing it is essential for our overall well-being. By sharing my own story and championing mental health causes, I hope to inspire others to prioritize their mental wellness and seek the support they deserve.
How has your involvement in theater influenced your approach to film and television roles?
My roots in theater have deeply shaped my approach to film and television roles. While both mediums require bringing characters to life, they offer distinct processes and dynamics.
In theater, the rehearsal process is a communal journey, where actors collaboratively explore the story and characters. It's a collective effort to breathe life into the narrative. On the contrary, film and television often demand a more solitary preparation. With limited opportunities for rehearsal, readiness is key even before stepping onto the set.
Transitioning from theater to screen initially felt daunting, as the dynamics differed. Yet, I soon discovered that despite the differences, both realms share a common purpose: to reflect humanity and mirror society. As I navigated between these two sides of the same art, I found that they complemented each other, enriching my understanding of storytelling and deepening my portrayal of characters.
What are some misconceptions people might have about working in the entertainment industry?
I am not going to theorize about this. However, I feel there is a communal idea of people working in this industry that is so far from reality. For example:
Instant Fame and Fortune: It's not like winning the lottery; success takes talent, timing, and tons of hard work.
A mall is the place: The idea that one can be discovered by a producer while casually strolling through a mall for shoes.
Money, Money, Money: While some make it rain, many are hustling paycheck to paycheck like the rest of us, like any other job.
Glitz and Glam 24/7: Sure, there are red carpets, but behind the scenes, it's more sweat and tears than champagne showers.
In a nutshell, while entertainment is thrilling, it's also a wild ride of dedication and determination.
How do you approach physical and emotional preparation for your roles?
I approach physical and emotional preparation for my roles with a methodical yet adaptable approach. Having been trained in The Method, which was heavily influenced by Russian theater traditions, I initially relied on those techniques. However, over time and with experience, I've developed a versatile toolbox that I draw from for each new role.
Given my background as a former ballerina, physical preparation often feels like second nature to me. I view my body as an instrument through which I can embody a character, allowing movement to inform their essence.
Emotionally, it's a process of deep analysis and exploration. I immerse myself in the script, dissecting every line and interaction to uncover the character's motivations and emotional journey. It's a bit like intellectual detective work, searching for clues left by the writer and piecing together the character's inner world.
I ask myself countless "why" questions, delving into the character's past, present, and future hopes and dreams, to understand their unique perspective. Rather than relying on my own experiences, I create a rich tapestry of memories and emotions that belong to the character.
This approach allows me to step into their shoes with authenticity, tapping into their reality rather than imposing my own. While it may seem like a lengthy process, it works for me.
What do you find most rewarding about directing compared to acting?
I absolutely adore both directing and acting, each offering distinct joys.
As a director, I relish the collaborative aspect, working with a diverse ensemble to craft immersive worlds. It's like curating a playground where every participant enriches the story, infusing authenticity that's hard to replicate. Witnessing the collective talent reflected in the final product fills me with profound joy and gratitude. It's an incredibly rewarding experience to see the culmination of everyone's efforts.
On the other hand, as an actress, I navigate the challenge of embodying roles that may already be predefined, sometimes falling into stereotypes. However, I approach each character with empathy and respect, infusing them with humanity and compassion. Acting serves as a form of therapy, allowing me to explore uncharted facets of myself. Building these worlds alongside fellow actors is truly magical, and when the audience connects with our creation, it's incredibly fulfilling.
What advice would you give to artists trying to use their platform for social change?
Please, choose a cause close to your heart and educate yourself about it thoroughly. Authenticity and understanding are key when using your platform for social change. Don't just dive into activism without a solid foundation; take the time to learn about the issues from all perspectives before advocating for change.
Looking back on your career, what would you say has been the key to your success in the entertainment industry?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe perseverance has been fundamental to my career in the entertainment industry. Additionally, I've recognized the importance of continual learning, growth, and adaptability.
