The build-up to Frightfest continues as we chat to actress Katherine Rodden all about low budget horror Werewolf Santa, which screens as part of the festival in under 2 weeks.
Here’s what Katherine had to say about werewolves, holiday horror and screening at Frightfest.
You have worked on a slew of shorts, how much of a change of pace was Werewolf Santa?
Funnily enough I stepped into this role from having worked on a feature film “The Killings at Nurseries House” which is a horror comedy about a dinner invitation which results in the guests dropping like flies. In that film I play every single character., at last count I think that’s somewhere north of 12 characters. I had to learn that script inside out and upside down (My brain has never been so full) so walking on to the the set of Werewolf Santa actually felt like a bit of a holiday! We worked fast but the team were exceptional and it was a hoot!
What were your expectations when you heard the title and plot?
I feel like the clues are all there! I assumed that Santa turned into a Werewolf and there would be a lot of blood. Airell outlined the plot for me and it actually swung much further into the comedy genre than I was expecting, if you’ve not seen Airell’s other works, you absolutely should- his work is fantastic. This film has a very different tone though. I read the script and was in! I love a Horredy, (not sure that’s a global term yet. Horror/comedy)
What can you tell us about the character of Lucy?
Lucy was a lot of fun to play. She’s sassy and cool and geeky and a bit broken. She reminded me of my teenage self a little more than I’d like to admit! Lucy is pretty angry at the world and has a lot to figure out, but she has a bag load of confidence- which felt lovely to play. She has a wonderful journey in the film- I think you’ll enjoy it!
Can we expect blood and gore in Werewolf Santa?
Of course! Would it be a Christmas movie without it?!
Are you a fan of horror films or more specifically werewolf films?
I do love a werewolf film and though Mark Arnold and I are friends I must admit “Teen Wolf” was a childhood fave. I thought he was totally dreamy! That said, I’m an absolute wimp when it comes to Horror. Instant nightmares- for days! I love, love, love working in this genre though so I’m trying to push through and watch more! I am open to all recommendations! (Keeping in mind the aforementioned wimpiness!)
Is the aim to become one of the Christmas horror favourites of future years?
I would love that! You never know what you have really until the audience get their hands on it. So, time will tell!
How exciting is it to be screening at Frightfest?
So much fun! I’m dead excited, I’ve never been to Frightfest before! I’ll be there Friday & Saturday for sure (Saturday may involve rocking some sunglasses, depending on how Friday night plays out!) So do come say hi. Unlike Santa, I don’t bite! (Sorry! Couldn’t help it!)
Werewolf Santa screens as part of Frighfest 2023.
Bloody Flicks 