Carin Smolinski
What do you do in the Vertical Industry?
I am an actress (Carin is also a director and producer!)
How did you come across Vertical Dramas?
Funny story, I auditioned for a series and had NO IDEA what a vertical was and befor filming my first scene, which was me running up a winding staircase and shouting "Get out of my way" another actor said "Is this your first vertical? and I thought he meant filming going UPSTAIRS!!!! I laughed so hard when I finally understood what it was all about.
What is your favourite project you have worked on so far?
I'm currently shooting "Desires in Fire" and while I LOVE playing the evil matriarchs which I play 90% of the time and have a blast doing it, this is a fun change playing a nice grandma to QUADRUPLETS!!!! Being on set with 4 children is so much fun! They are all such little pros.
What is the craziest thing you have found yourself doing while working on a vertical?
The funniest was getting what was supposed to be 20 year old orange juice thrown in my face by Bianca Buchholtz in "Jade Foster is Mine" and they shot it in slow mo and the result is quite hysterical of me melting down the wall.
Any funny stories you can share with us?
Sometimes it's hard not to get the giggles when we have to say lines that let's just say "get a little lost in translation." Directors are pretty open to suggestions for rewording, though.
Who is your unsung hero? Someone in the industry who should get more credit?
The crew! We get to go home after 12 hours but they still have to pack up and then get there before us the next day to set up. Grips do SO much lifting and 1st AD's everywhere! They are responsible for keeping to the very tight shooting schedules, making sure everything runs smoothly, making sure everyone on set knows what's happening and what is coming up, they communicate with all department heads, maintain "Quiet on Set" and they look out for the actors.
What do you wish more people knew about verticals?
The actors are really dedicated to their craft, getting acting coaching, lessons and work very hard! Sometimes we have to do a crying scene over and over and over which is pretty intense. We shoot a whole series (60 episodes) in 8 days which is insane, but I love it all!
What developments would you like to see in the industry in the year ahead?
There are many. First and foremost NO SEXUAL VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN! Consent is sexy y'all. Removal of gratuitous violence and sex scenes. Less glorified domestic violence, abuse & misogyny. More smart, successful female characters and more evolved male characters. More diversity with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ actors. Seeing the profits trickle down to producers, crew and actors. All this being said, I am grateful to the vertical genre for the opportunities that I have had as an actress and progress IS happening and there are great ones out there.
What are you most proud of?
My children are my greatest joy and the most important thing I will ever do.
3 Random Facts:
⭐I played roller derby for 6 years and my derby name was "Sweety Gonzalez"
⭐ I own International Preschools in Japan
⭐ ADHD is my superpower! (and my greatest challenge)
Favourite snack:
Charcuterie for sure! It's also my fave meal.
Current earworm:
I don't want to think of it or it won't leave my brain! There are many...
Currently reading:
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
Thank you Carin 🙏🏼
Please do check out:
🎞️ Desires Die Hard, Til we Meet Again, The CEO's Forgotten Bride, Jade Foster is Mine, My Dirty Little Secrets
Coming soon: Luna Is Back, Midlife Sparks with Billionaire Taxi Driver, Desires in Fire, The Lost Genius Fashion Designer, Caught in the Act, Hidden Order
🎞️ Carin’s IMDB
📸 Carin’s Instagram @carinsmolinski
