Check out our interview with talented actress on the rise, Brooke Carter, who can be seen in the new Netflix film “Damsel” available now!
Directed by the Oscar-nominated Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, “Damsel” narrates the gripping tale of Elodie, portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown, a young woman who finds herself in a dire situation after agreeing to marry a charming prince played by Nick Robinson. Elodie finds herself drawn into a perilous trap when she learns that the royal family, including Robin Wright, has chosen her for a sacrifice ritual to pay off a long-standing debt. Cast into a pit with a dragon, her survival depends on her cunning and strength. The film also introduces Brooke as Floria, Elodie’s younger sister, whose life takes a dramatic turn as what was supposed to be a dream wedding spirals into danger. Brooke and Brown deliver a compelling performance as sisters, with Brooke also sharing impactful moments with Angela Bassett, Robin Wright, and Nick Robinson.
“Damsel” marks a significant role for Brooke. Her career highlights include performances in TNT’s “The Alienist” with Luke Evans and Dakota Fanning, Amazon’s “The Peripheral” featuring Chloe Grace Moretz, as well as roles in AMC+’s “Close to Me” and the acclaimed Netflix British crime series “The Irregulars.”
Follow Brooke @brookecarterofficial
Describe yourself in three words.
Funny, sociable, and confident.
How did you get started in acting?
Age 2 I fell in love with Hairspray the musical, and used to tap dance to the DVD at home. I started at dance classes and took part in a few stage shows when my mum put me forward to Bonnie and Betty. They accepted me onto their books and the rest is history
How has this changed your life?
I think if I didn’t have my acting career, I wouldn’t be as mature and confident as I am. It has also given me a sense of responsibility when understanding my characters personalities and feelings, which helps me socially.
What is the best and worst part of being an actor?
The best part, in my opinion, would have to be pretending to be someone else. It’s something I find so fascinating but fun at the same time. Although there is never really a time I don’t enjoy acting, I think not being able to match a director’s vision for a scene can be really frustrating.
How do you prepare for a role?
I have quite the imagination, so when I’m able to read the script, I create this vision in my head of what their personality is like, how they dress, and how they act toward certain situations, and I bring my vision to life using the director’s notes to build on my understanding.
Tell us about your work in Netflix’s highly anticipated, action/adventure feature film “Damsel.”
It was an experience I never thought I would be offered and will always be one of my favorites. It was such an exciting journey, travelling to Portugal, finding out how certain scenes get filmed and becoming rather fond of my character. It was a huge learning curve for me being a part of something all the way through and being the youngest on set.
How was working with such a talented cast?
It was very inspirational and gave me something to work towards. I was grateful for all the tips and tricks that they gave me and all the help they offered when I was struggling to perfect certain scenes.
What other projects have you been part of?
I have worked on a series called ‘The Alienist’ where I starred as Clara alongside Dakota Fanning. It was fantastic to work with another child star who could pass on their wisdom. I also worked on ‘The Peripheral’ where I stared as Irina alongside Chloe Grace Moretz. Another incredible child star who I really admire.
How do you prepare for a challenging role, especially when it requires you to step far outside of your own experiences or personality?
I prepare for a challenging role using music. This is a tip that Millie gave me, and it really benefited me. It helped me set the mood of the scene and put my head in the same place as my characters would be. There is a song for every mood, personality, and feeling so it works every time!
Of all the characters you’ve portrayed, which one do you feel closest to or most proud of, and why?
I definitely felt closest to Floria because I could relate to her really easily; she was chatty, kind, and rather funny in some respects. She also knew how to lighten the mood. It makes me proud to say that I played Floria because I brought the vision to life for JC and the writers and now I get to show her to the world.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play, and why?
I would definitely want to play one of those high/middle school American girl roles, mainly because I really enjoy books of that genre and I want a chance to live that American high school/ middle school girl life through acting.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
I think the most rewarding part of my work is when people get to see it and they have positive feedback to give me. I also like when I get criticism as it gives something to work towards in the future.
What advice would you give to aspiring actors who look up to you and want to follow in your footsteps?
Always make every casting your best casting, but if you get rejected, don’t take it too personally. The most important thing though is to always enjoy what you do and try your best at every role you get.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you have learned so far in this business?
One of the major lessons I have learned in this business is that things can be disheartening, but something better will always take its place.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend would most likely describe me as like a sister to her and maybe a little eccentric.
If you were a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
Brooke’s cookbook. I am obsessed with food network, cooking, and baking.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
I have a book called the ‘Actors Alphabet’ by Julie Hesmondhalgh, which I highly recommend for daily life and acting tips.
What’s next for Brooke Carter in 2024?
Enjoying the buildup to the release of Damsel.
What is your own definition of happiness?
My own definition of happiness is feeling love and passion toward something, for instance, acting.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to meet Ann Marie Drummond (The Pioneer Woman) and spend the day on her ranch and cook lots of food!
Best advice ever given?
Learn to say no. This is one of the most important bits of advice anyone should know, in my opinion.
Do you support any charities?
I support Cancer Research, Myton Hospice and Dogs Trust.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years?
One thing I have learned from doing this job is that you never know what or where you’re going to be doing from day to day, but as long as I’m happy, that’s the main thing.
Favorite song? Why?
I have two favorite songs. My all-time favorite is Sparks by Coldplay and this is because it’s just such a touching song and I find it so relaxing. Another one of my more recent favorites is Never Be Like You by Flume, I like this song just because its different and again, I find it relaxing to listen to.
What do you think of social media?
I think it’s a great way to find recipes, interact with people, and showcase talents, but sometimes you can’t always trust what people say, so it’s definitely something I’m careful with.
Where can we follow you?
I have an Instagram account, @brookecarterofficial. I also have a TikTok account, @Theebeecarter
Book: The dork diaries.
Quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
Movie: To all the boys I’ve loved before.
TV Series: Benidorm.
Favorite Food: Chicken tikka curry with naan bread and rice.
Travel Destination: Tomar, Portugal.
Sports Team: Coventry City Football Club.
