Interview With “College Bound: Window Of Hope” Star Ainsley Ross!
Photo Credit: @Bkheadshots (Instagram)
We recently had the opportunity to chat with “College Bound: Window of Hope” star Ainsley Ross. During the interview, Ainsley talked about landing her role in “College Bound: Window of Hope”, being on set, acting influences, and more!
1.) How did you land your role in “College Bound: Window of Hope?
Well just as with any audition I had to go through several callback rounds. The whole decision process took about a month and a half. You see, I was originally called in for the role of “Victoria Gray” and I did the audition for that character as requested.
However, I asked casting if I could possibly read for the lead because the breakdown was so relatable it’s scary. They basically told me that… “ You can send a tape in, but there is another girl who pretty much already has the part. So it probably won’t change our minds.” So, I decided that I was going to take a chance. Therefore, I sent both tapes in. Then they called me back. They were “ surprised and intrigued” and then the rest is history, and hard work.
2.) What can you tell us about the film and your character?
My character is Isabella Santiago she is a happy, and energetic young woman who believes in the good of everyone. Just like any girl however, she’s gradually starting to fight for her independence. That makes it hard when you have a dad that’s a professor and a mom that’s a teacher. Her strength and faith remain strong throughout the film even through the twists, turns and circumstances life throws her way.
3.)What makes this film stand out from others?
The film talks about the realness of the world around us. How looks can be deceiving. Not only that, it tells the story in an unique intriguing perspective that isn’t usually done in a Human sex trafficking film. It shows the affects of Isabella’s friends and family and “her” being taken has affected their lives, as well as how they will bond together on a mission to bring her back alive.
- What is your favorite part about being on set?
First off, doing what I love and being on set is such a blessing. I love it for many reasons; some of the few being… meeting and bonding with cast mates and creating that set family atmosphere! Also of course bringing a character to life in which sends you on a fun, creative, imaginative, journey of on set fun unique to each film!
- How is this project different from other projects that you’ve previously worked on?
This project has and registers different to me than many others because it’s so close to my heart. I can relate to my character “Isabella Santiago” on a personal level; she writes music, likes to Draw, and she works with blind children as well.. it just so happens, oddly enough that I do this things too. These similarities naturally fell into place at that point. I also had a friend who was taken into Human Sex Trafficking. So this topic is definitely close to my heart strings.
- Who are you acting influences?
Sandra Bullock, Kate Beckinsale, Gal Gadot, Hilarie Burton, Eddie Murphy, Johnny Depp, Adam Sandler, and Hugh Jackman
- What is your dream role?
A superhero action film role such as Wonder Woman, and or Underworld… Since I work with tactical weapons such as swords, knives, bo staff, guns etc. as well as being a first degree blackbelt in taekwondo, and doing stunt and combat training. That would be a awesome reality to me, because I could combine my favorite crafts together.
- What is your favorite part about acting?
It’s the fact that you are blessed enough to be chosen to bring words from a script to life. There is a fulfillment in acting that I can’t explain… it’s the fact (for me) that you can bring the character to life and make them so relatable that the audience cares for their well being; you laugh for them, you celebrate for them, and you cry for them. However the absolute coolest feeling is that you never know how you’ll impact somebody though your character. We all have that certain movie growing up that inspired us! Therefore, a kid could be watching it on screen, then because of that scene/character/ or message they will go and say “Mommy one day I’m gonna do / be this!” It all starts with a dream.
- What is something that most fans wouldn’t know about the entertainment industry?
Honestly how hard it is. We are on call “essentially” 24 hrs a day. Also that behind every successful person there’s 5-10 years of hard work, and sacrifices.
- What is a fun fact you can share with us?
That I have as sword as big as me, and I’m registered as a legalized weapon in Texas based on my martial arts training etc. I always sign all of my email with a special quote…”Be The Reason Someone Smiles Today” as something that simple can really make someone stop, think and smile for that exact moment:):)
- Do you have any other upcoming projects you can share with us?
I just filmed a tv pilot called “Should I Do It” I’m also filming a project “5 minutes.” I am preparing to film another segment of a continuance series that I unable to name as of yet. New music will be released soon:):) There are also several BIG possibilities I am waiting to hear back from very soon!!! Gotta love NDA’s 🙂
- What are your social media accounts?
My Instagram account is: www.instagram.com/ainsley_ross @ainsley_ross
facebook: www.facebook.com/ainsleyrosstheartist
IMDb: www.imdb.me/ainsleyross