Meet actress Alexis Nichole Neuenschwander:
To start, please introduce yourself:
Hey! I am Alexis Nichole Neuenschwander, an actress currently residing in Columbus, OH. I love all genres of film, but honestly I gravitate towards the extremely dramatic or gory. Let’s be honest – that’s what everyone wants to see – BLOOD, SCREAMS and DRAMA!!! Plus, playing these roles are super fun 😊
What is horror to you, what makes a work of art one in the horror genre?
Horror to me, is freedom of expression. Let’s say you have a death scene : as an actor, you can play it so many different ways. You can do it campy, seriously, dramatically, quickly, long and drawn out, but in the end, the goal is to create a captivating character or moment. Make the audience sit at the edge of their seat, biting their nails, wide eyed for what comes next with bated breath!
What made you want to work in horror?
I was originally TERRIFIED by anything in the horror genre. I would literally pee my pants, as an adult, watching Goosebumps! (I know, how shameful haha) My friend Mark Murtha, was directing “The ’78 Slasher” a “Halloween” fan film, and asked if I would be interested in auditioning. Originally, every part of me screamed no … but Mark is like my brother, so of course I wanted to support him! I auditioned and ended up booking the lead role. I knew I had my work cut out for me. I was going to enter into a genre that literally made me wet myself! So, in order for me to do my character justice, I would need to watch the original “Halloween” film. With a simple shift in perspective, I was able to watch the WHOLE movie. Instead of covering my eyes, I watched it with the intention of building a solid character. I made the experience into more of a character study. I would ask myself “How does this character act when confronted with death?” “Are they cowering in fear, or do they grow bold and confident with each brush with it?” “What is their motive to fight back : is it to protect themself or to save the lives of others?” It moved my emotions from terrified, to actual enjoyment! I started to see the film for what it was, a piece of art that I could study and learn from. This was where my appreciation for horror began to grow!
Where do you get your inspiration?
I am so inspired by watching horror and slasher films, from every generation. The actors, the way they move, their character choices, their death scenes – all of it is something that I can draw from, when creating future characters. I do gravitate towards the “final girl” or “final character” – there is something so empowering about their journey : defying all odds, breaking all preconceived notions and coming out on top. They are not unscathed by their horrendous experiences, by any means, but they become a beacon of resilience. Defined, not defeated. Driven by their will to survive, or to protect others. It gets my heart pumping in the most confidence boosting way!
What would you like your legacy to be in the genre (or elsewhere)?
SCREAM QUEEN!!! I have an earth shattering scream that can be heard for miles and miles. I have had people call the cops for fear of my safety, while on set in a residential area. I have also made a group of coyotes howl, while filming in a desolate location. Honestly – it must be my vocal projection training, from years of performing in plays and musicals. I got pipes y’all and I’m not afraid to use ‘em 😊
What is Women in Horror Month to you and why is it still important this many years later?
I did not know that there was even such a month, but I LOVE IT!!! YASSSSSS!!! In film, I think that there should be a proper showcase of EVERYONE and what they bring to the table. Proper representation and a true celebration of diversity is important to me, and in my eyes a Women in Horror Month is definitely something that should be celebrated! Badass females and female presenting characters kicking butt!
Who are some of the Women in Horror who you look up to and who do you want to bring attention to in your field or others?
I may be biased, because she was one of the first actresses I studied to build my character for the “The ’78 Slasher” … but Jamie Lee Curtis. Laurie Strode (“Halloween”) was such an incredible character. The character arc that she had was a true showcase of tenacity and resilience.
In the horror and slasher film communities, I want to see everyone ( no matter their age, race, background, sexual orientation, sexual identity, etc.) get their moment in the spotlight! I want to see new characters, new ideas, new experiences, new stories, etc. – just all-around representation. Yes, there is already diversity and representation within the community, I just want to see more! I’m a greedy queen 😊
What are you currently working on that you can tell us about?
Filming for “Never Return” (a slasher masterpiece, under the direction of Bryn Dami) will begin it’s filming the summer of 2025. I am so excited to share my character, Myka, with you all. They are truly a ball of energy that you cannot help but love, then hate, then love again!
I will share the screen with “Terrifier 2” cast member Kaylie Hyman, as well as so many other unforgettable and exceptional actors.
Where can readers keep up with you? (social and whatnots go here)
Instagram : @alexis_neuenschwander
Link to “The ’78 Slasher” : https://youtu.be/B0GfWR1-D4Y?si=CCtJVhpL4F0D8khl
