Hurdle to convinc makers that I’m cap of leading a film
Indian-origin Hollywood actor Avantika Vandanapu is stepping into the horror genre for the first time with Tarot, marking a bid to showcase her versatility. Delving into her latest project, the 19-year-old expresses excitement about her departure from her previous roles: “Having established myself in Hollywood with films like Mean Girls (best known for her portrayal of Karen Shetty in the Broadway musical) and Spin (played the lead role, Rhea Kumar, 2021), I’m thrilled to embark on this new journey with Tarot. I was drawn to the horror genre because it has the power to evoke intense emotions. The anticipation, the sweat-inducing suspense — it’s an experience best enjoyed on the big screen, enveloped in darkness, with immersive sound and a racing heart.”
Transitioning into Western cinema hasn’t been without its hurdles, as she acknowledges the ongoing process of understanding and overcoming challenges. “My challenges have been diverse, and I won’t sugarcoat it. I’ve been gradually navigating my path. One significant hurdle is convincing decision-makers that, as a person of colour, I’m equally capable of leading a film, irrespective of its genre. Whether it’s action or romance, gaining recognition for your talent is undoubtedly a challenge. Another hurdle is finding opportunities and manoeuvring through obstacles without being confined by limitations,” she explains.
Addressing the evolving landscape of diversity in Hollywood, Vandanapu appreciates the progress while highlighting the considerable ground left to cover: “While Hollywood has made strides towards greater diversity and inclusivity, there’s still ample room for improvement. We’ve come a long way, but there’s much more to be done.”