When you think of some of the most distinctive actresses within the subgenre of Horror films, you would be remiss to pass over Angela Bettis. A highly talented stage and film actress, Bettis has been in the industry since a young age making a mark in films such as 1999’s Girl, Interrupted, 2002’s Carrie adaptation, and of course, her role in 2002’s May.
Weaving in and out of genres through the years, Bettis has always been up for a challenge, and that shines through in her work. Recently voicing over the character Duana in the new animation flick The Weird Kidz, Bettis shows once again that her ability to be a professional and still have fun with her work is unmatched. Proud to be a part of the project, Bettis took the time to talk about her career as an actress, her love for Horror movies, working on The Weird Kids, plus more.
Cryptic Rock – You have been acting professionally for nearly three decades now. In that time, you have sustained longevity in a long list of interesting films and television series. Briefly tell us, how would you describe your journey in film/television to this point?
Angela Bettis – The journey has been a roller coaster of a fun time. The reasons one begins and the reasons one continues the journey are very different, indeed. It is and has been my job. My work. As long as folks still want to work with me, I will try to do my best work with the best of myself.
Cryptic Rock – Well, you certainly leave an impression with all your roles. As stated, you have always been a part of some interesting projects – whether it be Girl, Interrupted (1999), Carrie (2002), or May (2002). Do you enjoy diversifying your roles as an actress?
Angela Bettis – Yes, I enjoy diversifying roles. I enjoy the challenge. Always good to step out of one’s comfort zone.
Cryptic Rock – Absolutely, that is what makes things fun, right? Among your roles, you have a lengthy list of credits within the Horror genre. Did you aspire to be a part of this genre, and do you enjoy working in it?
Angela Bettis – I do love working in the Horror genre! Always quite fun. Often very imaginative and boundary-pushing. And often causes one to plunge to their darker depths in a creative way.
Cryptic Rock – Right, in Horror you can explore a lot more than in a genre where the suspension of disbelief is not used. Of your roles, perhaps one of the most beloved is the film May. This film has become somewhat of an underground classic after all these years. What was that experience like for you?
Angela Bettis – It has been more than twenty years since I played May. So, my memories are selective and subjective. But I remember the shoot being kind of magical. I made quite a few friends for life. Including Zach Passero, creator of The Weird Kidz.
Cryptic Rock – It certainly sticks with people. Glad you mentioned The Weird Kidz. Among your more recent works you voice the character Duana in the aforementioned animated film Weird Kidz. So, how did you become involved in this project?
Angela Bettis – Zach Passero asked me to voice Duana and I said, “Yes!”
Cryptic Rock – Sounds simple enough considering you had that friendship. The Weird Kidz is a lot of fun because it is an homage to ‘80s styled films; from the dialogue to the story, it feels like something that would have been made 40 years ago. Was this something that attracted you to the project?
Angela Bettis – Zach, himself, attracted me to the project. I love his brain and his artistry. But I agree that the ’80s style is fantastic! It makes me nostalgic. And feels a bit like my own childhood. I just love it!
Cryptic Rock – Absolutely. What is really cool about The Weird Kidz is that it is handmade animated; which is really refreshing in a world where everything is computerized. This project was something that nearly took a decade to finish. What can you tell us about the work put into it?
Angela Bettis – I think that is a question for Zach, but I know he and his wife, Hannah, and quite a few others worked very hard and very long, overcoming many obstacles to get TWK done. They rule.
Cryptic Rock – You can tell this was a project of passion. Is The Weird Kidz one of your first voiceover roles? How would you compare voiceover work to on screen acting?
Angela Bettis – I’ve done a bit of voice work before. I’d like to do more of it! One main difference between voice and screen acting is with voice it doesn’t matter what you look like! You can go to work in your pajamas!
Cryptic Rock – (Laughs) That sounds like it can be relaxing. Beyond The Weird Kidz, what other projects do you have on the horizon?
Angela Bettis – Keep an eye out for two films from Writer-Director Yuri Zeltser; Our Little Secret and Circumcision.
Cryptic Rock – Interesting, fans will have to check those out. Last question for you. If you are a fan of Horror, and one would imagine you are, what are some of your favorites and why?
Angela Bettis – Yes, I am a fan of Horror. Hmm, let’s see… I love everything David Lynch, but let’s do Mulholland Drive (2001); doesn’t matter how many times I watch it, it’s always new. And I think Lars von Trier’s Antichrist (2009) is the most disturbing thing I’ve ever seen. Won’t be ever watching it again!
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