Jordyn Curet - Actress from The Drama
From television to the big screen, Jordyn Curet will inspire you to pursue your dreams, keep pushing through challenges, and believe in yourself. Read on to learn more about Curet’s acting journey.
The Interview
Welcome back, Jordyn. How are you?
I’ve been great! I am very excited to do this interview.
I’m also thrilled. I enjoyed seeing you on the big screen and am so proud of you. How are you processing it all?
It's surreal to see myself on a huge screen with an audience. I think it’s the coolest thing to have ever happened to me. I’ve always loved going to movie theaters and watching films, and I'm so grateful that I get to experience seeing myself on the big screen. It’s like seeing a huge dream of mine come true.
I must admit that I took notes while watching the movie and wanted to relax the second time around, but I still found myself writing. What do you think of that, and if you were in my shoes, what would you do as an interviewer?
I think the film is incredibly layered. There’s so much to unpack, and even tiny details that someone might miss on a first watch. If I were interviewing the cast or filmmakers, I would have endless questions about the characters. The relationship dynamics between each character are so interesting, and I’d be really curious about how those personalities were crafted in a way that allowed everything to play out as it did.
Great thinking, Jordyn. At our last interview, you were thirteen, and now you're seventeen. How does it feel to be seventeen?
Seventeen is a really crazy age. I love hanging out with my friends and doing all the same things I loved to do at sixteen, but it feels a little more serious. I have to remind myself I’m still young and it's okay to make mistakes at this age. I think I put a lot of pressure on myself to have it all figured out before I become an adult, but I am proud of where I’m at now.
You finally met your idol, Zendaya. What was that like?
It was a very special experience for me. Zendaya will always be my role model, and the fact that I got to meet her while doing what I love means everything to me.
Is it still surreal?
Of course. I still have a poster of her from 8th grade hanging on my wall. Never in a million years did I think that, two years later, I would be working with her.
My daughter also adores Zendaya and watched “The Drama” before me. Jordyn, you played Zendaya’s younger self, Emma. Was that your real hair or a wig?
My real hair.
Did you have to learn much about Zendaya to play her younger version?
I already knew a lot about Zendaya’s mannerisms because I have watched her on screen plenty of times. However, I think the two versions of Emma are very different. Zendaya definitely gave me the freedom to explore who young Emma is on my own. I love the way our versions blended in the film.
What one thing did you learn about Zendaya that you did not know before?
She’s very personable. She took the time to talk and get to know me. I appreciate how comfortable Zendaya made me feel because I was super nervous when I first met her.
What was the movie premiere like?
I had the best time celebrating the film with the cast and crew. We are all just so proud; it was the result of a lot of hard work and dedication.
How did you go about choosing that beautiful, pink gown?
My stylist helped me find a dress that was classy and also fashionable. She showed me this beautiful pink-and-black dress that I thought would be perfect for the New York Screening.
In your previous show, you portrayed Shamiah, a kind and confident character, while in “The Drama,” it was a different story. How did you prepare for such unique roles?
I think my role in “The Drama” was definitely unlike anything I have portrayed on screen before, but I was really hoping to book a role that showed more range in my emotions. I watched many drama films and studied many actors' and actresses' work, so when I got the audition, it felt like I knew how to play the character.
Great job playing Emma’s character. Which was harder, acting as Shamiah or Emma?
I related to Shamiah a lot and felt very comfortable playing her because she was similar to me. I had to work really hard to find out who Emma was. It was a collaborative effort with the director, but we ultimately found a place with her where we both felt good right before we started filming my scenes in New Orleans. It was odd to embody a character like her. I could really feel her loneliness, angst, and depression.
What was it like when you first learned you got the part?
When they flew me out to Boston for a callback, the director later told me I had booked the role. I was overwhelmed with emotions. I worked really hard that year to book a role, and it felt like a wave of relief. I also felt ecstatic about what was to come.
Very few people can say they made it to the big screen. Did you think you could make it?
I had always hoped that would happen, but I didn't think it would happen to me in my teen years. I'm so grateful that I get to go to the theaters with my friends and family and show them the film.
What helps you to keep going and not give up, Jordyn?
I know that patience is the key to success, and I am okay with that.
I agree; however, what would you say to someone who may be receiving multiple rejections as an actress or actor?
I think perseverance is so important, and knowing that if you stay consistent and continue to work hard, something is bound to happen.
Very well said, Jordyn. You also do well on interviews. How do you stay calm?
I like answering questions people have about my work. It’s nice to have people be interested in what you do. Usually, the questions are pretty lighthearted and out of genuine curiosity, which makes me feel relaxed.
What helps you remain humble?
I have a great family that has taught me always to stay humble. I have seen many people struggle in this industry. I have also struggled with acting because of how many rejections I have received. My experiences have definitely kept me humble.
What was it like for you to watch “The Drama” for the first time? And, what did you think of yourself watching it?
I was excited to watch “The Drama” for the first time and was emotional, especially when I first saw my name in the opening credits.
I am definitely my toughest critic. I remember when I first watched the movie, I thought I did poorly. Then, I watched it again at the LA premiere with the audience, and I remember thinking, “Why was I so hard on myself? I should be nicer to myself!” For one whole month, I thought I wasn’t good, but watching it with an audience and hearing all of the gasps and laughter during my scenes made me feel better.
How many times did you see the movie?
I've seen the movie about six times now.
Did you learn something new about yourself each time?
I really love film and acting. I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life.
That’s passion, which is also a critical element to success. What did your friends say to you after watching the movie?
They were all proud and a little shocked about my role, but so excited for me.
Was all the vomiting real?
Probably not, but I can’t confirm or deny anything, since I didn’t have to vomit.
Thank goodness you didn’t have to vomit. That would have been too much for me. Jordyn, what do you most desire right now?
To continue my acting career.
How do you manage all your responsibilities?
I think it’s been pretty easy to manage my responsibilities because I am having fun doing them.
What do you do for fun?
I love going to the movies with my friends, playing my guitar, reading books and screenplays, and creating art.
What most excites you about attending college?
I’m excited for the experience. Everyone says college is the best four years of your life, and I’ll see if that's true or not. Hopefully, it is true.
What did you think of the last scene when Charlie and Emma met in the diner?
I thought it was beautiful. So raw and so empathetic.
Who did you feel most sorry for?
I felt sorry for both of them. Emma has grown so much compared to young Emma. I felt bad for Charlie, too. He definitely handled the situation the wrong way, and we can all see that, but you can also tell he loves Emma.
Without giving the movie away, what do you think Charlie struggled with the most?
I think he struggled the most with paranoia and impulsive behavior. As the film progresses, we see him become more uncomfortable around Emma and make choices that only escalate the situation further.
I enjoyed the movie, but I was shocked by your role. Would you be okay with playing similar roles in the future?
I like the challenge of playing complex characters. I’m definitely open to playing a role with a similar tone as young Emma.
Do you think people deserve a second chance?
I think it depends on the situation.
I interviewed a couple of people after the movie, and everyone liked it. Here are a few of their comments: “I like how hectic and crazy it was.” “I thought it made me anxious. When a movie makes you feel something genuine, it’s good.” “It was good. I was surprised.” What positive things have you heard about “The Drama,” Jordyn?
I think many people enjoyed the experience. It really keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Jordyn, you are a model for the young and the old. I thank you for your time. Keep shining!
Thank you so much!
***If you haven’t watched “The Drama,” please do so. I hope Jordyn’s interview and growth as an actress have inspired you.
Thanks for reading,
Elvira