One of the most bankable names in the UK indie scene, Sarah Alexander Marks has created a strong collection of work with plenty of acclaim in a variety of genres over her career. Now, in honor of the release of her upcoming film "River of Blood," I talk with her about his early interest in acting, working on the film, and some upcoming projects.
Me: Hello and thank you for taking the time to do this. First off, when did you get into horror in general? What films specifically got you into watching horror movies?
Sarah Alexander Marks: Thank you for having me! I was introduced to horror at a young age—my dad was a big fan and would often put on classics like Nightmare on Elm Street, Jaws, and An American Werewolf in London. They terrified me in the best way, but I never lost sleep over them—in fact, I found them exhilarating. Later on, as a teen, I completely fell in love with the Scream franchise. My friends and I would huddle under a duvet on the sofa, absolutely gripped and genuinely terrified. Those moments sparked a deep appreciation for horror that’s never really left me.
Me: When did you initially discover a passion for acting? What aspect of this industry appeals to you?
SAM: Performing has always been in my blood. I started out as a dancer from a very young age—it was where I felt most alive, like I could truly express myself. Acting felt like a natural evolution of that passion. I love everything about the industry: the collaboration, the creativity, the energy on set, and the joy of building something with people who share that same fire. It’s an environment that constantly pushes me and feeds my imagination.
Me: Is there any specific type of character you prefer playing? What do you look for in a character to be excited and interested in playing it?
SAM: There isn’t one particular type I’m always drawn to—it really depends on the moment and where I am in my own life. I look for characters that excite me emotionally, that offer a compelling journey or challenge. I love telling stories that have the power to move an audience, to make them feel something real. If a role sparks that feeling in me, I know it’s something I want to explore.
Me: Having worked on plenty of short films early in your career, what tools and skills did you acquire working on those that transferred to future film projects?
SAM: Short films were such a vital part of my early development. They taught me discipline, adaptability, and how to communicate more effectively on screen. I also learned how to be aware of the camera’s needs while staying authentic in performance. And watching how different departments worked gave me a much broader understanding of filmmaking. All of that became incredibly useful as I stepped into larger-scale productions.
Me: That brings us to your latest project, "River of Blood." What can you tell us about the film?
SAM: River of Blood is an action-packed horror adventure with a deep emotional core. At its heart, it's about survival—both physically and emotionally. It follows four friends stranded in the jungle, not only fighting external threats but also navigating complex, fractured relationships. It’s intense, dramatic, and visually stunning.
Me: Playing the character of Jasmine in the film, what initially attracted you to the role? Was there any role in the past with similar qualities or experiences that helped make the filming easier?
SAM: What really drew me to Jasmine was the secret she’s carrying—it’s heavy. I found it fascinating to explore how someone might hold themselves while carrying such a burden, especially in extreme circumstances. That internal conflict gave the role real depth. I’ve played emotionally layered characters before, but Jasmine’s fragility combined with her resilience made this experience feel especially unique and personal.
Me: What do you do to stay in character while on set? When you're not filming, how do you pass the time between takes?
SAM: I don’t always stay in character between setups—I actually find it really valuable to enjoy the time with the cast and crew in between. That sense of community and shared experience often adds richness to the work. And truthfully, it’s during those relaxed moments that some of the best memories are made.
Me: What was the set like while shooting the film? How did the cast and crew react to the type of film being made?
SAM: We were deep in the Thai jungle, and it was absolutely epic. We had spiders the size of your face, ants that literally bit and refused to let go, and even elephants passing through! The environment was both challenging and magical. The crew was phenomenal—some of the hardest-working people I’ve ever met. Their speed and dedication to the craft were awe-inspiring. Everyone gave their all, and I think you’ll see that passion in every frame.
Me: Do you recall having any odd or funny on-set stories about yourself or any of the other cast/crew members?
SAM: Oh, so many! One that stands out is during a particularly intense scene—‘the pit scene’—which involved me being in a rather unpleasant and confined space. I think I might have scarred poor Tom Boyle for life! He offered to climb down with me between takes to help, and I’ll never forget the look on his face afterward. He just said, “I don’t think I’ll ever be the same.” I still laugh about it to this day.
Me: What do you do to keep your creative energy flowing?
SAM: I try to stay grounded and present. I remind myself to enjoy the process and not take everything too seriously. When I stay open, curious, and in the moment, the creativity flows more naturally. That, and surrounding myself with inspiring people, definitely helps.
Me: Lastly, what else are you working on that you'd like to share with our readers?
SAM: I’ve just wrapped my first feature as a producer, Archie, alongside Louis James and the incredible Lucas A. Ferrara—it’s now in post-production. I also had the amazing opportunity to work alongside John Rhys-Davies in Bonekeeper, directed by Howard J. Ford. The Manor of Darkness by Blake Ridder is coming out later this year, and Saming by my good friend Park Rojanachotikul. So yes—lots on the horizon, and I’m incredibly excited to share it all with you soon!
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