Maia Jae Bastidas opens up about her unexpected path into acting, the people and ideas that inspire her, and the values she carries on and off screen. This engaging interview offers a window into the world of a rising star who approaches her career with both thankfulness and a thirst for exploration. Her sentiment is clear from the outset: “The most important thing in life? Gratitude.” Bastidas’ statement lays the groundwork for how she views and engages with both life and her acting career.
Photography by Reto Sterchi
Styling Regina Doland
Beauty Maria Barrera
How did you first get into acting?
An agent stopped my mom on the street when I was 3! I worked on a feature film in Vancouver, Canada for my first gig (haha I barely remember anything!) and then did a few small tv gigs, commercials, voiceovers and print ads as a kid. I attended an arts based high school majoring in performance/theatre and then after my 18th birthday I signed myself to a Toronto tv&film agency and it’s been progressing since.
Is there a particular movie that has significantly influenced your life or mindset?
There are so many! It’s hard to choose. But some films continue to inspire and influence me in new ways each time I rewatch them. I find the study of dreams deeply interesting and so ‘Inception’ would definitely be on this list. ‘Girl Interrupted’ is also another timeless classic and a great character study. Then I’d have to add Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Pan’s Labyrinth’. It’s darkly twisted and fantastic and I was so moved by the young Spanish actress who played the daughter, as I must’ve been close to her age (probably 8!) when I first saw it. I remember being terrified to watch it but also could not stop. I also admire Emma Stone’s work and so watching ‘Poor Things’ recently was just so so fun.
Working alongside Amanda Seyfried in “Seven Veils” must have been an incredible experience. Can you share some thoughts of working with her?
Yes! Amanda is such a talented powerhouse. It was mesmerizing to watch her perform as Jeanine, and overall she is just such a sweet and welcoming woman. It was great to see her collaborate with Atom Egoyan again after nearly 15 years too. This time she brought her dog and kiddies to set! It’s amazing to see how long lasting and important the relationships you create are in this industry, even decades later.
“I think I try to accept that each character is different so each prep might be different too.”
How do you prepare differently for each character?
Great question. I think I try to accept that each character is different so each prep might be different too. I’m also into trying new things. So that might mean working with different acting or dialect coaches, researching or watching the previous films of the director I’ll be working with, reading the novel or book (if the script is based off one), or just being spontaneous with what the character might be doing. Maybe that means spending more time in nature, around kids, out dancing, or in a busy city. I like to expand on ideas found in the script until I feel like I know her personally.
What are some dream roles or genres you’re eager to explore in the future?
I’m terrified of watching horror films. But I want to play in their worlds.
“My close circle and the people around me inspire me every day. They are all hardworking and interesting individuals.”
What hobbies do you enjoy outside of acting?
Travelling has become a big part of life right now. For work and exploration. I’m happy that each experience expands my imagination and the people and sights I’ve seen have been so interesting. It has also become a tool to be able to adapt to new cultures quickly which is what it can often feel like when you have to jump into a new role. I also study Spanish quite regularly and love to do yoga.
How was the photo shoot with Reto Sterchi?
Great! We clicked right away. He’s got such a solid spirit and vision so when he said drenched hair at sunset or ferris wheel and trench coat at night, I said yes! It was also one of my first times in La so I was glad I got to explore the city with him. It’s such a big city!
How do you stay motivated and inspired in your everyday life?
My close circle! The people around me inspire me every day. They are all hardworking and interesting individuals. Thinking of them keeps me motivated!! I went to an arts based high school and university so I’ve been fortunate to have been surrounded by many artists since I was pretty young, but I think I’d say I’m a pretty curious person and so I have many friends too who are not actors at all but are entrepreneurs, musicians, editors, real estate agents, social workers, fitness gurus etc. They rock.
The most important thing in life?
Gratitude.
Photography by Reto Sterchi www.instagram.com/retosterchi
Model: Maia Jae Bastidas www.instagram.com/maiiiiaa
