Variety's 10 Actors to Watch Discuss Portraying Complex Characters and Building Industry Confidence at Newport Beach Film Festival

This year's selected group of ten promising actors from Variety took the stage at the Newport Beach Film Festival on October 18th. They engaged in a compelling discussion about their craft, the intricacies of their performances, and the journey of building confidence within the entertainment industry. The event, moderated by Variety, was a collaborative effort with the Newport Beach Film Festival, offering a unique platform for these rising stars to share their experiences and insights.

Embracing the Nuances of Challenging Roles

During the panel, Inde Navarrette shared her unique process of bringing the character of Nikki to life in "Obsession." She highlighted the freedom she had to develop the role, given the limited pre-existing material for the character. Navarrette found beauty in Nikki's complexities, noting that many women identified with the multifaceted nature of the character. She emphasized the idea that individuals, particularly women, embody multiple identities, which she views as a beautiful aspect of human experience.

Navarrette delved into the intricacies of portraying Nikki, a character for whom there was little established backstory in "Obsession." This presented both a challenge and an opportunity, allowing her significant creative freedom in shaping the role. She expressed her appreciation for the character's nuanced personality, noting that audience members, especially women, frequently approached her to share their personal connections to Nikki's complexities. Navarrette underscored the universal truth that people are rarely one-dimensional, and she celebrated the beautiful, multifaceted nature of human identity, which she brought to the forefront of her portrayal.

Cultivating Poise and Professionalism in Acting

Jaafar Jackson also spoke about his transformation into his uncle, Michael Jackson. He focused not only on mastering the legendary performer's stage presence but also on developing the self-assurance necessary for a seasoned actor. Jackson expressed his desire to project the image of an experienced professional rather than a newcomer, striving to demonstrate a strong presence and adaptability, even when faced with unexpected changes during production. His preparation aimed to allow him to maintain Michael's mindset throughout the creative process.

Jackson recounted his journey of embodying Michael Jackson, extending beyond mere imitation to cultivating a deep sense of confidence and professionalism. He articulated a clear ambition to be perceived as an established actor, capable of handling the unpredictable nature of filmmaking. This involved rigorous preparation to ensure he possessed the composure and flexibility to navigate on-set adjustments and unforeseen circumstances. Jackson's commitment to staying within the persona of Michael, even amidst production challenges, highlighted his dedication to delivering a compelling and authentic performance.