Brooke Moltrum
What do you do in the Vertical Industry?
Actress and hopefully soon to be writer (maybe even director!)
How did you come across Vertical Dramas?
I was encouraged by a friend of mine to give them a try, as I wanted to be a full time working actor. At first I thought, "no way, I'm staying far from these!" but I warmed up a little when I got my first audition for one in November of 2023. I booked the female lead (Heather, Fated to My Forbidden Vampire) and my perspective completely changed. For the first time I was shooting with multiple cameras, and found myself accompanied by an absolutely brilliant cast of actors with an equally excellent, experienced crew. I learned quickly, this was the real deal- and a wonderful medium for me to play and practice in as my career continues to grow.
What is your favourite project you have worked on so far?
My very first vertical will always be such a special and magical experience. However, I just worked on an evil twin vs good twin vertical where I was privileged with the opportunity to play both characters! It was a thrilling challenge, and I had so much fun along the way. It hasn't been released yet, so I'm not sure what the title is but it's hilarious.
What is the craziest thing you have found yourself doing while working on a vertical?
Jumping into an unheated pool in November...it was estimated the pool was around 45 degrees. We ended up having to jump in 4 times. The crew did everything they could to take care of us, still- THAT was CRAZY cold.
Any funny stories you can share with us?
Too many to count. One particular time a director was pushing a very dramatic performance out of me, I was rejecting my mate- which is supposed to be the worst physical and mental pain one could ever feel in their life. I screamed and howled and cried and my director looked incredibly pleased- but we were outside in a very nice neighborhood. The police showed up in response to a call that someone was "screaming out in excruciating pain and crying". They left saying maybe not to howl outside.
Who is your unsung hero? Someone in the industry who should get more credit?
The directors. Each one I've been given the privilege to work with. They not only have to meet production's standards, they have to keep the entire ship from sinking. I salute you!
What do you wish more people knew about verticals?
It's a wild world these characters live in, so keep that in mind! Also, everyone on these is working so hard. It's a 12.5 hour work day on set- sometimes longer, and the page count for the day can be over 25 (to give some perspective, a typical feature film is usually 3-7 pages per day). That's a lot that the cast has to memorize the day of...and a lot for the crew to light, stage, costume, make up, design, and shoot! It's a marathon, not for the faint of heart and I respect everyone that has given it their all. The support from our audiences means everything, we are so truly grateful that you let us continue to bring you these silly, romantic, crazy stories!
What developments would you like to see in the industry in the year ahead?
More dynamic scripts and a variety of complex, complicated characters. Trust us actors, we know how to be real people too!!
What are you most proud of?
I heal each day, I grow each day, I'm blessed each day, I learn, I create- and I'm supported by my incredible family, my wonderful partner, and my fantastic friends. I'm so grateful.
Which vertical actor would you like to play you in the biopic of your life?
Me. HAHAHAHA or Nick Ritacco, he'd probably have an interesting take.
3 Random Facts:
⭐ I sing! I trained classically and now I teach!
⭐ I draw and paint.
⭐ I'm not the most graceful, I'm pretty clumsy but I love yoga and that helps!!
Favourite snack:
Popcorn
Current earworm:
Marry Me Archie
Last play you saw on stage:
Funny Girl the National Tour! Loved it
Currently reading:
The Actor's Life: A Survival Guide by Jenna Fischer
Thank you Brooke🙏🏼
Please do check out:
🎞️ Fated to My Forbidden Vampire on Reelshort
🎞️ Brooke’s IMDB
📸 Brooke’s Instagram @brookemoltrum
