Q&A

GN: Bone Lake is such a distinct project - what drew you to it, and what spoke to you about the story or your character? 

AN: I remember reading the script for the first time and audibly gasping at one of the twists… specifically that twist (iykyk). I was hooked. Bone Lake takes you on such an unpredictable wild ride. Just when you think you know where it's going, you're wrong. And it's just so much fun.

Then there was Cin. This confident burst of sunshine that's equal parts sinister. That duality was thrilling. I'll admit, I was intimidated by her at first but I knew I had to play her. I actually read for the role of Sage originally! So there was a brief moment where I was really begging the universe to let me read for Cin. I'm glad it worked out the way it did. Maddie is brilliant as Sage, and Cin really feels like she was meant for me. 

GN: How did preparing for this role differ from other projects you've worked on in film or television? 

AN: I had maybe a three-day turnaround before stepping foot on set, so I knew right off the bat that my prep had to be quicker. We luckily had a week for rehearsals, so that gave me a little extra time to sink my teeth in. But it was just go-go-go. Looking back, I'm thankful for that. I got to discover her bit by bit as we went on, and learn to trust my instincts.

I did make her a playlist which I kept on repeating the entire shoot. It was a mix of the same 10 songs on loop, every single day. My Spotify Wrapped that year was anticlimactic to say the least. 

I also incorporated some animal work with this project. I'd come home and watch YouTube videos on cobras, cheetahs, even black widows. I think I made my arachnophobia worse. But it was fun. And it became a bit of a secret language Pete and I used in-between takes... he'd send me a Jaws gif and I'd immediately understand what that meant. 

GN: What was the most surprising or challenging part of filming Bone Lake? 

AN: It's important for me to find the humanity in every character I play, whether they're good or bad. I want to understand what is at the core of everything they do. And that went for Cin too. On one hand, you have this confident burst of joy that is empathetic and kind, but a conniving stone cold seductress on the other. Justifying her behavior and actions, while also keeping her grounded - especially in such heightened chaos - came as a bit of a challenge. There's a fine line between these two sides, and I wanted to find that balance while also planting a few easter eggs for the audience. 

That, and the fact I don't know how to swim...which is kind of funny considering I spend a good chunk of the film in the water.

GN: You've built a career across very different genres - how has that range shaped you as an actor? 

AN: None of the characters I've played have been alike, and that's been such a gift. I'm grateful for that. Getting to step into different roles and genres has made me more confident about taking risks. Sure, I still get scared by every role, but I've also learned not to shy away from that feeling. I want to feel that. It means there's growth on the other side. I think I've reached a point where the unknown excites me. After all, I get to live a hundred different lives through my work. How cool is that? 

GN: Collaboration is such a key part of any production - what was it like working with the director and cast of Bone Lake? 

AN: I hold so much gratitude for every single person who touched this film. It truly would not have been possible without everyone's contribution. It's been one of the most fulfilling experiences I've had, and from day one, everyone just clicked. 

Working with Maddie, Alex and Marco was an actor's dream. We all hit it off and were able to just play. But none of it would have been possible without Mercedes. She gave us the freedom to explore, to take risks, to try new things... that trust made all the difference. 

It really does take a village, and this film is what happens when that village comes together and trusts one another. I'm honored to be part of it. 

GN: Looking back, are there moments in your career so far that you feel were turning points or defining experiences? 

AN: I feel like my entire career so far has been a series of defining moments. Every project I've been part of has enriched my life in one way or another. I've gotten to meet and work with so many talented creatives, and have been able to bring light to some really moving stories. I think I carry a little bit of each role with me - the good parts. I am who I am today because of the women whose shoes I've gotten to step foot in. 

GN: How do you balance your creative ambitions with the practical demands of the industry? 

AN: I think that's something I'll always be navigating. There's so much uncertainty in this business that you really have to be okay with the ebbs and flows, and ride each wave as it comes. Look at me pulling out surfing metaphors when I can't even swim. The key for me has been focusing on what I can control, and choosing to find joy in the process. It's a privilege to call this work, so I try to see every win for what it is: a win. Big or small, they eventually compound, and they always remind me of my why... of the eight year old girl that found herself in the craft. 

GN: What's next for you after Bone Lake - are there new projects or directions you're especially excited to explore? 

AN: I have a crime thriller coming out in 2026 called Crime 101, directed by Bart Layton, which is a first for me in that genre! It's such an exciting script, and I got to shoot in London for a portion of it. I've had that city on my bucket list for years, so getting to explore while doing what I love... cherry on top.

Beyond that, there's so much I want to dive into. I'd love to pay tribute to my roots and play a vampire one day. I also wouldn't mind being one half of an enemies-to-lovers period piece. I don't know what my next role will be, but that uncertainty is so exciting to me.

GN: What does GOODNIGHT mean to you? 

AN: Goodnight is a reset and a soft reminder that it's okay to pause. To me, it means I love you, I'm glad you exist, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Images courtesy of photographer Sareh Bamdad