On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Shohreh Aghdashloo. We explore Shohreh’s journey from Iran to Hollywood, which is as captivating as her performances. Shohreh shares her early defiance against cultural norms and her celebrated career milestones, including her Academy Award-nominated and Emmy Award-winning roles. We discuss her parts in "The Expanse," "24," "Star Trek," “Renfield,” “X-Men” and her role as the voice of the dragon in the Netflix movie, “Damsel.”

Shohreh recounts her courageous escape from Iran during the 1978 revolution and the support of her husband in her pursuit of acting. We explore the societal expectations of Iranian women and the cultural influences that shaped her path, all against the backdrop of political upheaval. Shohreh brings context and insight to the quiet but persistent movement for change in Iran and the personal experiences that resonate with Shohreh's family, offering a window into the lives of women in a rapidly evolving country.

We discuss the nuances of bringing complex characters to life, as well as the challenges that come with controversial roles, as Shohreh discusses the backlash from her portrayal of a terrorist in "24." We also touch on her experiences working with Hollywood icons, such as Ben Kingsley, Nicolas Cage and more. This episode explores a dynamic tapestry of life lessons, laughter, and the simple joys of storytelling, with one of Hollywood’s most intriguing personalities.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:06:21 - Religion and Power in Film

0:09:01 - Escape From Iranian Revolution

0:13:53 - The Influence of Western Films

0:23:58 - Iranian Women's Empowerment and Evolution

0:24:24 - Audition Experience For Academy Award Winning Role

0:29:16 - The Expanse

0:37:27 - Praise for TV Show Characters

0:42:05 - Acting, Stories, and Future Projects

0:43:07 - Portraying Multi-Layered Characters as an Actor

0:49:27 - Exploring The Character Avasarala from The Expanse

0:54:30 - Cooking Show During COVID

1:06:07 - Working With Keanu Reeves and Creativity

1:17:25 - Acting, Imagination, and Life Lessons

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with Actor, Tye Sheridan, whose journey from child actor to seasoned professional unfolds in this enlightening discussion. We discuss Ty's diverse career, from his beginnings in "The Tree of Life", to his recent venture into producing with "Asphalt City." Ty offers a behind-the-scenes look at his transition from teen roles to more complex adult characters, the influence of working with legends like Spielberg and Clooney, and his grounded approach to working in Hollywood.

Ty shares personal stories of growing up in Texas, and how he balanced his life in LA with his roots. He gives us a glimpse into the importance of authenticity, the challenges of navigating a teenage acting career, and the vital role his family and manager played in shaping his path. We also touch on his love for storytelling, his passion for outdoor adventures, and the creative and personal wisdom he's garnered along the way.

Ty discusses his takes on the film industry, from the integration of AI and its potential to revolutionize indie filmmaking, to the adrenaline of preparing for his role in “Asphalt City” by working with paramedics on the streets of New York City. Ty's dedication to his craft is evident as he discusses his move into entrepreneurship and his mission to democratize the art of filmmaking. Whether you're a film aficionado or simply love a good story, this episode promises to be as insightful as it is entertaining.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:02:35 - Small Town Texas Memories

0:04:42 - Transition From Teen Actor to Adult

0:08:03 - Small Town Audition for Film

0:11:37 - Movie Role Impact on Social Life

0:16:16 - Navigating a Teenage Acting Career

0:17:09 - Decision Between School and Acting

0:23:10 - Working With Spielberg and Clooney

0:26:48 - AI in Film Industry and Creativity

0:32:47 - Balancing Acting and Entrepreneurship

0:36:36 - Paramedics in New York City

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with talented actor, Anja Savcic. She can currently be seen in the new Prime Video movie, "Ricky Stanicky." Listen in as Anya opens up about her experiences on set with John Cena, Zac Efron, Andrew Santino and Jermaine Fowler, as well as Anja’s roots in Vancouver, Canada and Sarajevo.

We also peek behind the curtain of her experience working on multiple projects with writer, director and comedy legend, Peter Farrelly. Anja also discusses her experience working on the Netflix show, "Loudermilk", along with comedic and independent film icon, Ron Livingston. We also touch on the charm and vibe of working with a cast of American actors while shooting “Ricky Stanicky” in Melbourne, Australia.

Finally, we explore Anja’s personal passions and ponder life's simpler pleasures…from dream coffee dates with intellectual icons, to the rejuvenating power of yoga…as well as the NASA discoveries, the space program and our collective appreciation of sci-fi. Anja Savcic is not only a great comedic storyteller, but she has a unique story of her own…one that we explore on this episode of Story and Craft.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

0:03:34 - Home in Vancouver (49 Seconds)

0:11:03 - Experiences working on Netflix’s “Loudermilk”

0:18:17 - Filming “Ricky Stanicky” in Melbourne, Australia

0:28:21 - Reflections on Personal Growth and Influence

0:29:40 - Creative Pursuits and Travel Adventures

0:34:39 - Discovering Westerns Through Good Storytelling (28 Seconds)

0:41:21 - Admiration for Alan Watts

0:51:45 - Radio, Yoga, and Dog Talk

0:52:18 - Radio Personalities

01:02:33 - Sci-Fi Nerd Chat

Listen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com.