RM: You’re originally from Columbia. However, your work is well known in Spain, where there’s so much world history and the surrounding structures can serve as artistic inspiration. What inspired you to pursue acting as your career path?
AC: Since I was a little girl, I always enjoyed performing. I would watch a movie and then go home and pretend I was the character I liked the most. I could do it for hours and not get tired. But, it was always a game. Later on, when I booked my first job, I fell in love with the whole process. I knew, that was what I wanted to do and immediately committed to it.
RM: What was the first project you received and how did you react when you finally booked it?
AC: It was a TV show in Colombia. I auditioned for it and when they picked me, I was very exited because it was with a really good director and actors I admired. The character was a girl from a little town on the coast, who moved to Bogota, the capital. She started to discover a new life in the big city without knowing anybody. It was kind of what was happening to me at the time (I am from Cartagena, the Caribbean Coast in Colombia and also moved to Bogota). So our stories were very similar. It was the perfect character for me. I could understand what she was feeling and identify with what she was going through.
RM: You’ve done an equal amount of film work as well as television. Which do you gravitate to most and why?
AC: I prefer film, because it is more artistic and creative. Normally, I have more time to prepare and work on the material emotionally and physically. But, I feel very blessed to have been able to do both, because I have learned enormously.
RM: What challenges/differences do you come across when working on these various platforms?
AC: With TV, everything is a little faster and the results are very important. It depends on how big the production is. The numbers are different in the U.S. but in Latin America and Spain, normally you don’t have more than 5 or 6 days to complete and episode. Another great thing about TV, is that I get to know a character better, season by season.
RM: Which actors work do you admire and who’s career would you like to emulate?
AC: Daniel Day Lewis and Meryl Streep would be the King and Queen!. Among others, I also respect and admire Penelope Cruz, because she’s not only a great actress, but also a hard worker. What she accomplished in The U.S. and the rest of the world is not easy. Her courage, discipline and passion are very inspiring.
RM: The film, A Night in Old Mexico, marks your American debut. What is the film about and what did you like the most about your character, Patty Wafers.
AC: I think the movie talks about second chances. Red (Robert Duvall), the main character, loses everything and feels old and alone. That special night, he discovers that great things happen when you least expect it. Patty is light and strong, but she is not happy with the choices that she’s made in her life. They are both lonely and need each other. I love that.
RM: As you mentioned, you had the opportunity to play alongside Robert Duvall, who brings a wealth of experience on any set. How much do you think you learned from him?
AC: A lot. Bobby is not only a legend as an actor, but also an amazing human being, and for me, that was the most important thing. He was very generous on set. Watching him work was fascinating. He is definitely still and full. He reminded me of how important it is to be simple and just listen to the other actor.
RM: When you’re not working on set, what do you enjoy doing with your free time?
AC: I love spending time with my dog. It’s a black lab. We go to the beach, we go for hikes, and road trips. I enjoy nature.
RM: In regards to fashion, who are your favorite fashion designers and styles found in your personal closet?
AC: Stella McCarney, Gucci, Armani. I like to look good but also feel comfortable. Jeans for sure, high heels, and always a nice black dress.
RM: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us. What other projects can we look forward to?
AC: Thank you! I have 3 movies coming out soon. The Vanished Elephant ( PERU-COLOMBIA), The Seed of Silence (COLOMBIA), and Elvira, I would give you my life but I am using it. (MEXICO).
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