We were lucky to catch up with Katelyn Sordo recently and have shared our conversation below.

Katelyn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I have always had a passion for films, from classics like Singin’ in the Rain to modern blockbusters like Iron Man. Each genre has changed my life and sparked my curiosity about the filmmaking process, like storytelling, acting, production design, and cinematography. I find that film and theater has the unique ability to evoke deep emotions within audiences, often revealing feelings they weren’t aware they had, or feelings we are told to hide in our society because it’s seen as weak.

My desire to act in film really happened when I saw Iron Man when I was six years old. While I had always appreciated theater, there was something about the experience of cinema that captivated me. The idea of being transported into another world, even if just for two hours, was an incredible and amazing feeling I never wanted to let go of. I understood that superheroes and their powers weren’t real, but I knew I could have the chance to embody different characters and narratives. Make believe. I cant be a doctor, or a lawyer, or a princess, but I can make believe I am, and I can convince others I am through film. I feel fortunate to have known my passion for this art form from such a young age.

Katelyn, 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?

I grew up in a small town in Connecticut where everyone knew I was meant for the stage and film. I immersed myself in musical and community theater, but my passion for filmmaking didn’t happen until I was 17. It took some time to find my voice, but I recently wrote, directed, and starred in a short film called Roxxi.

Roxxi is a short film that follows a confident curvy woman, Roxxi, while she navigates friendships and love in a society that often defines beauty by narrow standards. Roxxi learns to embrace her authentic self while confronting constant societal pressures and ridicules. Through laughter, heartache, and self-discovery, “Being Roxxi” celebrates the beauty of fat women and inspires audiences to embrace their mind and body.

When I started filmmaking, my goal was to tell stories that resonate with my generation, especially young women. Unfortunately, much of the plus-size representation in media perpetuates outdated narratives—like the trope of a fat girl who feels sorry for herself and only feels worthy when a man loves her. This perspective reinforces harmful beliefs that can leave young women feeling ugly and alienated.

In contrast, Roxxi showcases a woman who is confident and beautiful in her own skin, confronting societal pressures rather than succumbing to them. The character is inspired by my own journey; I’ve always embraced my body and struggled to understand why others have not.

Roxxi is set to debut at film festivals this October, and I can’t wait to share it with the world! (You can follow the film page on Instagram @roxxifilm)

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

One of the most rewarding parts of being an artist is sharing my work and connecting with others who love creating too. I really enjoy collaborating with friends and new people on set; it feels like building a little family. Everyone has their own way of working, and there’s always something to learn from each other, no matter where we are in our career there is always something to learn from eachother.

I don’t buy into the idea that we’re just here to work. Sure, acting and filmmaking are jobs, and they can even be lucrative, but what’s the point without people to share it with? Film and acting are all about collaboration, and there’s something magical that happens when a group of passionate people come together to make art. That’s what I truly adore and aspire to be a part of!

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

One of my biggest goals is to inspire people to change for the better. I’ve said before that while I can’t save lives like a doctor or a lawyer, I have a unique power through storytelling. I believe in the impact that movies can have—they’ve saved my life in many ways. They’ve inspired me to grow, taught me valuable lessons, and offered perspectives on life beyond my immediate community.

Through film, I’ve learned and began to understand diverse lives and cultures, gaining insights that shape my understanding of the world. I want to create that same transformative experience for others, helping them see life from new angles and encouraging positive change. That’s what drives me as an artist.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katelynsordo/?hl=en
• Other: IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm12225157/

Image Credits

Jonah Hodari
Eve Zguleva
(For theater photos I do not know that was with my school)