Actress Courtney Akbar remembers being inspired by a 1999 movie called “Superstar” (starring Shannon Molly) - so inspired, in fact, that she became an actress to live out the dream that she saw depicted on screen.
After studying at the Ivana Chubbuck Studio, and playing numerous small roles in various series and films such as “Parks and Recreation” and “Assassin X,” Courtney Akbar finally landed the ultimate gig as the female lead role in a new science-fiction movie called “Astro” which is due to be released in June of 2018.
Courtney recently took the time out of her day to discuss this movie, her career, and more via an exclusive interview.
Sci-Fi, acting, and franchises
Meagan Meehan (MM): So, Courtney, how did you manage to break into acting and how much did you study the craft?
Country Akbar (CA): Growing up I binged watched the movie “Superstar” - like most kids watch their favorite cartoon - and every single time I would force my parents to watch it with me (acting like I was in the movie). I have always loved entertaining an audience. The message I had understood most from that movie is how real your dreams can be if you dare to fight and believe in yourself no matter how unrealistic they may seem to others. I've done a lot of studying of the arts over the years throughout my childhood even to now. My favorite lessons stemmed from my training at the Ivana Chubbuck Studio.
I've been featured in a few Movies and on TV shows, but my role in “Astro” has been my biggest so far!
MM: How did you get involved in “Astro”?
CA: Asif (Akbar, the director) had originally told me about the concept before he began writing the script and I instantly thought it was a really cool idea. I was even more impressed after he had told me he already thought of who he wanted to cast for most of the characters and I was happy I was able to fit in.
There's nothing more interesting than the unknown and the depths of peoples' imagination. Especially with Sci-Fi stories such as "Astro," where the plot is creative but yet not so far off from today's conceivable conspiracies.
MM: There’s talk of “Astro” becoming a franchise, so do you envision being a part of future chapters?
CA: Of course! What's better than a cute little girl kicking some serious butt? Ha-ha! I don't know if I'm supposed to say this yet or not but there's already a script in the works for “Astro 2” and there is certainly a lot of character development for Laura-Lee Adams! The book series that is being developed also goes more into depth than what we are able to put on the big screen.
Entertainment, projects, and advice
MM: So, what do you personally like most about working in the entertainment industry and how do you hope your career will blossom in the future?
CA: The best part for me is looking forward to going to every single set and genuinely being able to say I'm happy when I work; along with all of the incredibly talented people I am able to surround myself with.
I don't believe I would be happier doing anything else in life. I see myself continuing to grow more as an actress. I am hoping to have a wider range of roles under my belt within ten years and not to have any limits set for my craft. I would love to portray a strong female character, maybe as part of a powerful biopic or even who knows, part of the DC or Marvel Universe.
MM: Do you have any cool forthcoming projects--or advice for young up-and-comers--that you would like to mention?
CA: I do, but I have to be a bit tight-lipped about them. I can say along with “Astro 2” I do have a really great project coming up that I am particularly excited to be the female lead of which will be a more serious drama.
To any aspiring actor I say, don't ignore or underestimate your passion and don't be afraid to let it lead you; it's not easy, and it's definitely not always glamorous, but it is worth it. To an aspiring producer I would have to say be strong, own it, and always triple check everything. Ha-Ha.
