We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Karla Guzman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Karla below.

Karla, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is my short film “Speak No Evil”, which marked a turning point in my career. As an actress, I’ve always been passionate about storytelling, but this was my debut as a filmmaker—where I stepped into the roles of creator, writer, producer, and lead actress. It was the first time I had the chance to fully bring my vision to life, both in front of and behind the camera, making it not just a film but a deeply personal and transformative journey.

Speak No Evil started as a simple thesis project for my BFA in Acting for Film, but it quickly became something much bigger than I ever imagined. From the moment I began developing the story, I was captivated by the process. I discovered the magic of filmmaking and how each stage—from pre-production to post-production—comes together to create something meaningful. It was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience that taught me the power of persistence and creativity.

Now, Speak No Evil is being screened at film festivals worldwide, opening doors I never expected. It’s allowed me to connect with audiences on a deeper level, and it’s been amazing to see the emotional response it evokes. This project has helped me grow both as a filmmaker and storyteller, motivating me to continue pushing boundaries and creating stories that leave a lasting impact. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished, and this is only the beginning of my journey as a filmmaker.

Karla, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Karla Guzman, and I’m an actress and filmmaker originally from Mexico. Moving to Los Angeles was a leap of faith to pursue my dream of becoming an actress, driven by a passion for storytelling that ignited when I was just 12 years old. Back in Mexico, I spent five years at a musical theater school, where I learned the power of narrative and the joy of performance.

Since graduating with my BFA in Acting for Film last December, I’ve embraced every opportunity to gain experience in the industry. Being on set and in front of the camera is where I feel most alive; acting is not just my career but my true passion. Despite not having any representation, I’ve successfully navigated the industry and booked projects consistently, which brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

More recently, my horror short film “Speak No Evil” marks my debut as a filmmaker and has been making waves in the festival circuit, earning selections, nominations, and awards. Watching my creation on the big screen has been surreal and rewarding. I’ve traveled to various states for film festivals, including the Bridgeport Film Fest in Connecticut, where it was screened at The Klein Memorial Auditorium. Each experience has reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling and connection.

My journey blends my love for acting and filmmaking. As I evolved in my career, I realized I wanted to create my own stories, leading me to step behind the camera. What sets me apart is my ability to draw on my acting experience to elicit authentic performances and foster a collaborative environment for my cast and crew. I believe in crafting stories that resonate on a personal level, inviting reflection and dialogue.

I’m incredibly proud of my growth and the relationships I’ve built through my work. For anyone following my journey, I want you to know that my dedication to storytelling drives me to explore new creative avenues, and I’m excited for the adventures that lie ahead.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with others through storytelling. Whether I’m acting or directing, I find fulfillment in the moments when my work resonates with someone, evokes a feeling, or inspires reflection.

The collaborative nature of art is also incredibly rewarding. Working with fellow creatives—actors, writers, and crew members—creates a sense of community and shared purpose. Together, we bring a vision to life, and witnessing that transformation from idea to final product is profoundly satisfying.

Ultimately, being able to touch lives, provoke thought, and spark conversations through my art makes every challenge worthwhile. Knowing that my stories can make a difference, even in small ways, drives me to keep creating and pushing the boundaries of my craft.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Yes, there are several resources I wish I had discovered earlier in my creative journey, particularly casting and collaboration platforms like Backstage, Actors Access, Casting Networks, and Central Casting. These websites are invaluable not just for actors but also for filmmakers, music composers, and other creatives looking to connect with projects and industry professionals.

Accessing these platforms earlier would have streamlined my ability to find opportunities and collaborate with talented individuals across various disciplines. They provide not only listings for auditions and projects but also insights into industry trends and networking opportunities, which are crucial for anyone in the creative field.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.karlaguzman.net/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlaguzman_x?igsh=YzAwZjE1ZTI0Zg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr