Sony Pictures Television will debut a brand new original series for Playstation titled “Powers” and cast in a major role on the breakthrough series is “High School Musical” alum, Olesya Rulin. Co-starring award winning actor Eddie Izzard (“Hannibal,” “Oceans 13”), “Powers” is based on the graphic novel by Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Avon Oeming. The series follows a detective who solves crimes that involve people who have superhero capabilities with Olesya playing ‘Calista,’ a teenager Power wannabe with street smarts, attitude, and vulnerability who is always seeking out her next move. “Powers” has already gained traction and has been talked about on top news and entertainment outlets such as CNET, The Verge, LA Times and TV Guide.
Olesya Rulin made her a name for herself in the acting world when she played the shy, reserved piano player from Disney’s “High School Musical” films. Olesya recently starred in the film, “Family Weekend” which also stars Kristin Chenoweth and Matthew Modine.
Rulin plays the role of Emily Smith-Dungy, who is an over-achieving and motivated teenager. She and her siblings have had enough of their parents not being there for them and they devised a plan to kidnap their parents.
I was able to ask Olesya about her recent film and who she would love to work with in the future.
Art Eddy: You star in the film “Family Weekend”. Can you tell me about your character Emily and a little bit about the film?
Olesya Rulin: Family weekend is about an eclectic family who has drifted away from each other. My character Emily in a desperate attempt to get her family reunited goes to extreme measures over the course of a weekend. What starts as a way to quickly bond everyone so that I may have a family to cheer me on at my jump competition quickly turns into deeper chaotic and meaningful change.
AE: What was the audition process for this film like?
OR: I was given the script to read from my agents and fell in love with the story and characters. We set a date to meet with the director/ producers to discuss the story and tone. I prepped the way Emily would with color coded binder markers and detailed descriptions of choices I would make and why. I also dressed like Emily and went in with my character. It was a fun experience to be so “Napoleonic.”
AE: When you read the script what was your first reaction about the film?
OR: Joy, I wanted to tell this story.
AE: The film also stars Kristin Chenoweth and Matthew Modine. How was it to work with them?
OR: Amazing! They both taught me so much about being prepared and committed to my character as well as my interactions with the other characters. They also made sure the set was light and helped me get through leading a movie and a cast…. Which although amazing and the best feeling is also incredibly challenging in ways I never knew. That’s why I love this job it’s always teaching me something new about myself and others. Being and actor is a gift in so many ways.
AE: The cast seems like a great bunch of actors. Was there any funny behind the scenes stories when you guys were filming the movie?
OR: Any time you put 150 creative people in one glass house for a month you’ll get funny moments. Mostly we would just chat and nap. Eddie would play the guitar and Kristin would crack jokes. Kristen’s assistant, who I love, Julie would help us do abdominal workouts.
AE: What is the main message you want people to take away from this film?
OR: That a family is like a kaleidoscope. So many different shades and colors but put them together they are beautiful no matter which way you turn.
AE: You were in the “High School Musical” movies. Tell me about your experience with those films?
OR: The best life experiences. I received an incredible education about life, business, connections, and how to live in the moment. It taught me the power of my voice and helped me find miracles in my work. Disney makes dreams happen and that company has made so many of mine
AE: Are you currently working on any projects?
OR: Yes but can’t spill the beans on them yet. I’m writing a project right now that’s based on an old Russian film I grew up watching so stay tuned.
AE: Is there any film or project you would love to be in?
OR: I want to work in anything Kate Winslet is in. Seriously, I’ll bring her coffee or anything. She’s a force and I would love to learn from her.