Actress Maša Lizdek speaks to Close-Up Culture about her role in the new sci-fi thriller film, Simulant. The film is about a humanoid A.I.’s attempt to win over a widow’s heart and places it in the path of a government agent trying to stop the rise of machine consciousness.
Hi Maša, welcome to Close-Up Culture. You star in the new sci-fi film, Simulant. What interested you about this story and this project?
Thank you for having me! I’ve seen most of the work from Director April Mullen so I was very keen on booking this project!
You play Lisa, a land-based Interior Service Android. How did you approach the challenge of playing an Android?
I graduated from OCAD University and studied mold making so I’ve always admired all that goes into creating prosthetics. Many hours under the makeup were challenging however I was grateful to be part of such a great cast and supportive team.
There’s a lot of work that goes into the special effects for a film like Simulant. Can you tell us about the costuming and special effects that you used on the film?
Costume designer Hanna Puley and her team constructed a fantastic form-fitted one-piece suit that would also complement the makeup. The dedicated team from AAFX studio built a life-like cast that was produced for every working day, resulting in an eerie and futuristic appearance for this character.
What was your experience like working on such an exciting genre film?
I’ve always wanted to perform in Sci-fi projects. I was immediately drawn to this genre because it did read as sci-fi but also thriller, action, and romance. Playing Lisa, I was given opportunities to even portray comedy for she is caring but definitely not without a sense of humor.
What can audiences expect from Simulant?
The captivating cinematography from Russ De Jong will definitely give audiences a thrill of excitement through this action-driven story… Though this film is set to be in the future, we are not far off from AI creations so I expect audiences to have that conversation. If you had a chance to clone a lost loved one, would you?
Can you tell us about your background and what led you to acting?
My interest peaked in elementary school when I started to audition for the choir. When cast in musicals during high school, I knew I wanted to perform and make acting a career.
What type of roles would you love to take on in the future?
I’ve always been attracted to career-driven roles. Lawyers, real estate agents, detectives, and cops. I’m also often type-cast as the mischievous one so I suspect this character will perhaps have a troubled past. Stay tuned!