Isadora Ortega - Is Fighting Against Domestic Violence
We would like to introduce Isadora Ortega a multi-skilled actress, writer, and producer based in Los Angeles. Ortega is truly one to watch, from appearing in the Off-Broadway production "Eating Out” to writing the recently released graphic novel "The Curse of the Flower," and now executive producing and starring in "Another Love Story". "Another Love Story" is an award-winning film that follows an abusive relationship. Its release is well timed as October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Continue reading to find out more about Ortega’s career, future projects, and how we can be more aware of what goes on behind closed doors.
Where are you based?
I am based in Los Angeles.
You are an actress, a writer, and a producer. Do you prefer one over the other?
Yes, acting is my first passion.
What sparked your interest in the entertainment industry?
I grew up watching telenovelas with my mom, and I loved how the same person can become different people.
You appeared in Off-Broadway productions such as "Eating Out." Do you prefer this type of live Acting or on-screen Acting?
They don't really compare. I haven't done stage in a very long time, and do hope to have the opportunity to do it again in the near future.
You've also appeared in and produced several projects, including web series, short films, and shows. Do you have a favorite acting or producing project?
To be completely honest, producing is very challenging. Producing is a numbers game and very technical. All my projects are my babies, so I can't pick.
You truly are a triple threat; you are also an author who has just released your first graphic novel, "The Curse of the Flower," based on the legend of Anacaona. Could you tell us a little bit more about this book and why you wrote it?
"The Curse of the Flower"//"La Maldicion De La Flor" is based on the legend of Anacaona. The novel follows the leader of her tribe, Anacaona, as her people's lives are turned around by conquistadores, who too willingly took more than was offered. To protect her people, Anacaona's rage quickly evolved in a way no one saw coming, developing into a night where everything was set into motion so she could visit our world… time is an interesting thing; sometimes, it heals you and sometimes allows your rage to grow. But Anacaona's legacy will not be silenced, only impact our world. It was so great to see my novel praised by fans, and happy to share we are currently in pre-production on the short film, to be directed by Oscar-nominated director David Massi and expected to make its rounds in the festival circuit soon to follow its release.
I played Anacaona in Elementary school, and I fell in love with her story. I feel this story should be told on a bigger scale, and I believe that her story belongs on the big screen.
Do you intend to publish any more books in the future?
Yes, the second book of The Curse of the Flower - stay tuned!
Let's talk about your new film, "Another Love Story," which you executive produced and starred in. Can you tell us about the film and the character you play?
Another love story is very dear to my heart. This movie is based on how my best friend/ sister was killed. I knew domestic abuse was a big social problem but didn't realize how big it was until I started doing my own research and learned how we don't really have laws to protect domestic abuse victims. Unfortunately, the law doesn't want to get involved in husband and wife relationships, or couples of any sexual orientation. I dream of building a foundation where we can start a partition to change the laws in place. To use the foundation to rehabilitate people that are survivors of domestic abuse. Domestic Abuse victims suffer from PTSD as some a soldier that fought in a war. Playing the role of Miriam Ramos was very challenging because when I started writing the outline for 'Another Love story,' it was my way of dealing with the loss of my loved one. Living the life of Miriam Ramos and feeling how much she loves Mark and how she desired to heal him from his demon was heavy to carry. But overall, playing Miriam brought me closure and purpose because it opened the door to having a real conversation with different women and men about their stories. Just in my crew, we had four survivors of domestic abuse who willingly opened up and shared their stories.
This film has also won multiple awards. You were named Best Actress at the 2021 New York International Film Awards and Best Feature Film at the 2022 Gold Movie Awards. Congrats on these awards! What has been your reaction to this? What do you feel it was about this film that has resonated so much with others?
Thank you! It was incredible to see the feedback, and it was astonishing to hear how this movie resonated with so many who shared a similar experience to Mariam's.
During the pandemic across the world, we saw a rise in domestic violence. What would be your advice for someone in a bad situation? Or advice for a friend of someone in a bad situation who wants to help?
It is not your fault, and I encourage you to talk to someone because most of the time, in cases of domestic abuse, someone will lose their life.
How did you stay positive during COVID?
Praying, meditating, and affirming myself.
Women are struggling across the globe with how they are treated. What are your thoughts on the protests going on in Iran?
Honestly, I don't know anymore. I don't understand the obsession with men controlling woman's life. I don't understand why they are so afraid of our voices.
What is your motto in life?
If it is scary, do it anyway, because we have the key to our future and maybe someone else's future.
To know more about Isadora Ortega please follow her instagram below:
Instagram @lablacklatina @Anotherlovestory @Hopestreetholiday
Unless otherwised noted the photo credits go to Another Love Story.