[INTERVIEW] Witch (2024): Sarah Alexandra Marks
Writers Marc Zammit, David Baboulene and Craig Hinde’s latest folk horror film ‘Witch’ releases today! Set in small town England, 1575, Witch focuses on Twyla, played by Sarah Alexandra Marks, who has been accused of witchcraft. Her husband William is tasked with hunting down the real witch before Twyla is put to death.
Before the release of the film, Cat had the chance to talk with Sarah Alexandra Marks about her role as Twyla in Witch.
Can you please introduce yourself and your character Twyla?
Hi, I’m Sarah Alexandra Marks. I grew up in Essex, England. In my early years I trained as a dancer and later on transitioned over to screen acting. I have always had a love for film and feel very at home when on a film set. In ‘Witch’ I play Twyla, the wife of a blacksmith, who is falsely accused of witchcraft.
Witch is a period film which adds a fascinating element to the story. How do you think Witch compares to other period films?
I always like to approach each film I do without any pre conceived notions or comparisons. There are so many films out there which all have a tremendous amount of hard work behind them. A period film is a challenge in itself, especially from an independent company, I really applaud Marc and Craig for pulling off such a feat. Costumes and props aside, location is one element which can’t be ‘cheated’ as easily. We were fortunate enough to shoot on the same set as ‘The Witcher’. The stunning visual impact transports the audience straight into that time and place.
How did you prepare to portray the emotional journey of Twyla considering she faces intense persecution throughout Witch?
The Stella Adler quote comes to mind - ‘Truth in acting is truth in circumstance’ . Being on the set, in costume and with my fellow cast mates is what really allowed me to step into Twyla’s shoes with a greater ease. The shoot days were long so I would always hook myself back into the scene by remind myself where I was in Twyla’s arc before each scene and focus on staying present throughout.
What was the most surprising aspect of filming Witch for you?
Arriving in Budapest and being given a tour of the set for the first time - It really was a ‘pinch myself’ moment.. a dream come true.
What do you think makes Witch a film that will resonate with audiences?
The love between Twyla and William and their relentless fight to prove their innocence will resonate with audiences. All of us have shared a deep love with someone whilst encountering adversity. Innocence is another major theme of the movie. Audiences will surely empathise with Twyla’s innocence and route for her to find a way out of the terrible circumstances fate has dealt her.
Do you have any future projects in horror coming up? Or are you hoping to find more horror projects to be involved with?
Yes I do. Escape by Howard J Ford, River of Blood also by Howard J Ford and written by Tom Boyle, The Manor by Blake Ridder, produced by Lucas A Ferrara & Louis James and I also have two horrors in pre-production which I’ll be co-producing this year.
