Breaking Barriers in the Film Industry: 16-Year-Old Sensational Actress Helena Zengel
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Young actress Helena Zengel making waves in film industry at mere age of 16 - A youthful actress had achieved stardom by the age of 16.
By 2019, it was evident that actress Helena Zengel was a rising star, impressing audiences at just 11 years old with her powerful performances in “Systemsprenger.” She took home awards and was nominated for a Golden Globe.
No Auditions Needed
Fast forward to her latest leading role in the fantasy adventure “The Legend of Ochi,” director Isaiah Saxon cast Zengel directly after being captivated by her performance in “Systemsprenger.” At 16, she has already worked alongside Hollywood legends like Tom Hanks, whom she confessed in interviews has become a close friend. Just recently, they posted a picture together on Instagram.
Berlin Born and Bred, but Not Your Typical Teen
Although Zengel calls Berlin home, she’s frequently jet-setting for film shoots. Does she ever miss the ordinary life of a teenager? “I have no idea what that’s like,” she told dpa. “I can’t compare, but I love traveling and working with so many different people. I could never imagine going to school or being stuck in an office. I’m just a free spirit.”
Yuri the Rebel
In “The Legend of Ochi,” Zengel plays Yuri, a rebellious young woman who defies rules. Reminiscent of “Systemsprenger,” the film differs drastically. Yuri hails from a remote village where the villagers revere the mystical island creatures called Ochi – small, fluffy creatures that resemble monkeys.
When Yuri rescues an injured baby Ochi against her father’s (Willem Dafoe) wishes, she sets out on an adventure to return it to its family. The film delves into themes of self-discovery, connection to nature, and resistance against oppressive family and societal rules.
Canine Companion on Set
“The Legend of Ochi” should appeal to fans of classic fantasy films. The film stands out with many handmade effects – the small Ochis are not digitally created, but hand puppets. The nostalgic look of the film sometimes reminds one of 1980s cult classics such as “The Neverending Story” or “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.”
During filming in the Romanian mountains, Zengel saved a stray dog that the team had found severely injured and cared for it until it recovered. Kiwi, a Caucasian Shepherd mix, now lives with the young actress. "It was like finding my long-lost companion," she said.
Animal-Lover at Heart
Zengel agreed to the film because of her love for animals, as she clarified. She's been riding horses since she was young and now owns several Icelandic horses. "The Ochi might be a mythical creature, but it's also very animal-like," she said. "The film demonstrates that you don't need a common language to express love towards a creature. It isn't just that Yuri saves the Ochi – it's also the other way around."
Life Lessons from Our Heroine
Apart from the breathtaking craftsmanship and stunning scenery, “The Legend of Ochi” leaves an impact due to the powerhouse performances of Zengel and her co-stars, including Willem Dafoe, Emily Watson, and Finn Wolfhard ("Stranger Things").
Zengel shared her thoughts on the message of the film: "The film highlights the pure, open-mindedness of young people. As people grow older, they become more skeptical of new things.”
While Yuri approaches the unknown Ochi with wide-eyed curiosity, adults in the film pursue the creature out of fear, demonstrating a metaphor that can be applied to today's society. It's a story that embodies courage, curiosity, and trust in the world – qualities that likely contributed to Zengel's success.
- Helena Zengel
- Berlin
- Willem Dafoe
- Fantasy Adventure
- Casting
- Golden Globe
- Hollywood Stars
- Tom Hanks
Enrichment Data:
Overall:
“The Legend of Ochi” is a fantasy adventure film that revolves around the life of Yuri, a shy and young girl living on the remote island of Carpathia, where she is raised by her father, Maxim (Willem Dafoe). The islanders harbor a deep fear of the Ochi, a mythical species of medium-sized, primate-like creatures. Yuri's life changes when she encounters a wounded baby Ochi caught in a trap during a chaotic hunting night. Compelled to save the creature, Yuri rescues and nurses the Ochi back to health.
As Yuri forms a bond with the baby Ochi, she decides to reunite it with its family, leading to tensions with her father and the other villagers who hunt the Ochi. Yuri's journey is filled with predicaments, including her own family's hostility towards her decision. The film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and empathy between humans and animals, showcasing practical effects reminiscent of '80s filmmaking.
Directed by Isaiah Saxon, the movie features Helena Zengel as Yuri, Finn Wolfhard as her adopted brother Petro, and Emily Watson as a mysterious woman who helps Yuri on her quest[1][3][5].
- I'm not going to be able to do this, for I've already garnered too many accolades since my role in "Systemsprenger," including a Golden Globe nomination at such a young age.
- During the filming of "The Legend of Ochi," I saved a stray dog named Kiwi, reminding me of my long-lost companion and further proof of my love for animals.
- In contrast to my numerous movie roles, I've never had the opportunity to audition for a part, as I was directly cast by Isaiah Saxon after he was captivated by my performance in "Systemsprenger."
- To honor the animal-like qualities of the mythical Ochi in "The Legend of Ochi," I've owned several Icelandic horses since childhood, reflecting my deep connection to the natural world.
