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Entering the film industry can be a mix of excitement and pressure, particularly for newcomers. Chase Infiniti, a 24-year-old actress from Indianapolis, is making her mark in cinema with a significant role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming film, One Battle After Another.
In this project, she plays Willa Ferguson, a young woman who grapples with her family’s legacy while seeking her own identity during a reunion of former revolutionaries.
Infiniti’s rise to prominence in the entertainment industry is marked by an unconventional path.
Growing up in Indianapolis, she pursued her passion for the arts at Columbia College in Chicago, where she studied musical theater. Despite her commitment, opportunities during her college years were limited. She often found herself engaged in community and summer theater productions rather than prominent college performances.
Reflecting on her early aspirations, Infiniti noted, “I would have been thrilled with even a single line in a film. I never imagined I would be here today.” Her narrative exemplifies the power of perseverance and self-belief.
From small stages to Hollywood
The journey that brought Infiniti to Hollywood is noteworthy. Her name, a distinctive blend inspired by Nicole Kidman’s character from Batman Forever and Pixar’s Toy Story, seems almost prophetic as she begins her cinematic career. In One Battle After Another, Willa is not just an average teenager; she holds a purple belt in martial arts and exhibits a strong sense of agency and determination.
Infiniti describes her character as assertive yet relatable, filled with hope, and a symbol of potential for a brighter future.
Character development and preparation
Actress Infiniti immersed herself in the character of Willa by traveling to Eureka, California. She was joined by director Paul Thomas Anderson and co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, who plays her father.
This trip was instrumental in allowing her to observe community dynamics and interpersonal interactions. Infiniti noted, “It was enlightening to see how people connected with one another, which helped me understand Willa’s environment better.” Such firsthand experiences are crucial for actors seeking to portray their characters authentically.
In collaboration with a distinguished cast that includes Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Oscar-winning actor Sean Penn, Infiniti navigated challenging yet rewarding experiences. One particularly intense moment involved a dramatic DNA test scene with Penn, which served as a significant lesson in emotional control and responsive acting. She compared the experience to a sparring match, stating, “There was an element of intimidation, but Paul encouraged us to embrace those raw reactions, and it was truly exhilarating.”
Admiration for fellow cast members
In an interview, Infiniti expressed profound respect for her fellow cast members, especially Regina Hall and Teyana Taylor. She commended Taylor’s portrayal of Perfidia, highlighting how it added depth and vibrancy to the character that surpassed the expectations set by the script. “Teyana’s performance was phenomenal, making her character even more vivid than what was written,” Infiniti remarked with enthusiasm.
The strength of Deandra
Infiniti emphasized Hall’s portrayal of Deandra as a character who embodies both subtlety and strength. “Deandra may seem understated, but she is central to the film’s emotional core,” Infiniti stated. She described Hall’s performance as a nurturing presence, akin to a mother figure for Willa, effectively filling a significant void in the young woman’s life.
Adjusting to stardom
Despite sharing the screen with established industry figures, Infiniti openly acknowledged her ongoing adjustment to newfound fame. “Part of me believed I could achieve this, but another part was skeptical. I entered this project with no industry connections and no prior on-camera experience. It’s surreal to be on this press tour, knowing Paul took a chance on me without having seen any of my previous work,” she reflected.
Infiniti’s family, particularly her mother, is deeply engaged in the excitement surrounding her burgeoning career. According to Infiniti, “My mom cries every time she sees the trailer, especially when she spots Lockjaw holding Willa’s baby photo. She always says, ‘That’s my baby.'” This emotional connection highlights the support system that surrounds her.
Future aspirations
Despite being at the outset of her career, Infiniti’s aspirations are already taking shape. She aims to collaborate with renowned directors such as Greta Gerwig and Steven Spielberg while expressing a strong interest in musical films. “If there’s ever a film adaptation of Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, I don’t even need the role; I just want to audition for Natasha,” she stated, emphasizing her dedication to her craft.
Reflecting on advice she would give her younger self, Infiniti shared a significant piece of wisdom: “You have nothing to prove but everything to show.” This mantra encapsulates her journey as she carves her path in the film industry.
