Samara Weaving: The Versatile Scream Queen Shines in “Borderline”

Samara Weaving has established herself as a prominent figure in the horror genre, earning the title of a certified “Scream Queen.” Throughout her impressive career, she has played significant roles across various genres, including gripping dramas like Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, comedies such as Bill & Ted Face the Music, and period pieces like Chevalier. Despite this diverse portfolio, her affinity for genre films, particularly horror, remains a key focus of her work.

In her latest project, Borderline, set to premiere on Friday courtesy of Magnolia Pictures & Magnet Releasing, Weaving explores a distinct comedic approach. The film, penned and directed by her husband, Jimmy Warden, features Ray Nicholson as Duerson, an obsessive fan who believes he is destined to marry pop star Sofia, portrayed by Weaving. The storyline sets off a cat-and-mouse dynamic filled with dark humor and surprising developments, pushing Weaving’s comedic limits.

Insights from Samara Weaving on Her Craft

Attraction to Horror and Genre Films

Weaving articulates her passion for horror and genre films, stating, “Because of the scope you can reach. There’s a whole scale of human emotion that in a lot of other movies you might not get the chance to explore.” This depth of exploration presents a unique challenge that she finds particularly enticing, especially in horror comedies that blend humor with genuine fear.

Challenges in “Borderline”

Weaving discusses the complexities of her role in Borderline, noting that the hardest part was resisting laughter while working with the “impulsive” Ray Nicholson. She remarked, “The biggest challenge was trying not to laugh, because Ray’s so funny.” Her approach involved supporting Nicholson’s performance while ensuring her character remained relatable and empathetic amid the chaos.

Collaboration with Her Husband

Working alongside her husband, Weaving found joy in their synergy. “I read the script so I knew what I would be signing up for,” she said, emphasizing the fun they had between takes, which allowed them to share lighthearted moments despite the film’s tension.

Techniques for Portraying Fear

When asked about her method for acting terrified, Weaving revealed, “I use music a lot,” explaining that listening to specific tracks helps evoke genuine emotions. She employs hyperventilation and quick, darting eye movements to convey fear authentically.

Post-Shooting Self-Care Routines

After intense filming days, Weaving engages in various self-care practices. “Getting out of wardrobe is the biggest one,” she explained, noting that she often takes hot showers or Epsom salt baths to relax after physically demanding scenes.

Crafting a Signature Scream

Weaving also shared insight into her distinctive scream, stating, “I don’t know why it comes out the way it does.” She first discovered this talent during her role in Ash vs Evil Dead and has since embraced it as a unique aspect of her performances.

Action Scenes and Authenticity

When it comes to fight sequences, Weaving aims for realism. Drawing inspiration from her experiences, she emphasizes the need for authenticity in fight scenes, which often appear messy and chaotic, reflecting the characters’ lack of training.

Secrets of Working with Fake Blood

Weaving candidly discussed experiences with fake blood, humorously noting its pleasant taste due to its caramel flavor. While she finds it enjoyable, she advised against licking it off during shoots. For removal, she swears by shaving cream, which she affectionately calls “Moon Face,” as it effectively cleans her skin after a long day.

Future Aspirations in Film

Looking ahead, Weaving expressed enthusiasm for branching out into different genres. “I’d love to do a Western,” she shared, imagining herself as a character ready for adventurous stunt sequences in a classic setting.

Influences in Horror Cinema

In terms of inspiration, Weaving has a particular admiration for Janet Leigh in Psycho, calling her performance “incredible.”

For a sneak peek at Weaving’s latest film, watch the trailer for Borderline below: