Rising star Aspen Martinez joins us on Close-Up Culture to talk about her big-screen debut in the A24 Sundance success, Opus.
Hi Aspen, welcome to Close-Up Culture. How did the opportunity to star in Opus come about?
Hi, thank you for having me! Opus was filmed in New Mexico, where I’m from and I was invited to audition for Maude. I auditioned, then had a callback, and my 3rd meet up was with Ayo. We just had a ton of fun for that one. I met Ayo’s dog Gromit and I love animals!
What did you enjoy about playing your character, Maude?
Maude is interesting because she is cute and friendly, but she also has a manipulative side. I like that she has that surprising trickster side to her.
What was your experience like on set?
I enjoyed everything about the project. Working with the other actors was great. Mark Anthony is an amazing director. The sets were really cool. I learned a lot and had the best time.
The film has an incredible cast, including Ayo Edebiri and John Malkovich. What was it like working with some of the most talented actors in the industry?
It was amazing. They are really talented and were great to work with. Ayo and I had fun on and off set. She gave me tips on memorizing lines, and we went on walks with her dog. John Malkovich was helpful and nice. I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with them.
What will be your favorite memory looking back at this project?
I’d have to say filming the dining room scene. It was my first day on set when I filmed that scene, and it was really exciting. I loved the formal dining room set and props. I really enjoyed getting into character and working with everyone.
You also starring in the AMC drama, Dark Winds. What can you tell us about that role and your experience working on it?
Dark Winds is filmed in New Mexico and highlights Navajo culture. I had watched seasons one and two and loved the series so I was excited when I was invited to audition for season three. My character Carmelita is from Mexico and her and her family get into some trouble. I enjoyed the setting of this project; the 70’s props and vehicles and the New Mexico landscape.
What do you love most about acting?
I love meeting new people, and every project is a little different and comes with a new experience. I also love the characters and the stories. Another part I love is all the people it takes to create the project. I get to be part of a big team.
Who would you love to work with in the future?
It would be fun to work with Margot Robbie, or Zendaya. I’d love to work with Ayo again.
Photo credit – Katie Johnson