We love the slasher Ladybug and it's finally being screened today at FrightFest 2024 so we chatted to its lead star, co-writer and producer Anthony Del Negro.
NYX: Have you always been a fan of horror movies?
ADN: My brother and I used to love renting horror movies at Blockbuster. We were big fans of Scream, Nightmare on Elm Street, Halloween. We used to love the Halloween marathon on AMC so it was a joy to work with Nancy and Scout!
NYX: Where did the idea for Ladybug come from?
ADN: I always wanted to do an LGBTQ+ type thriller with The Others vibes.
NYX: What was your writing process with director Tim Cruz?
ADN: Tim and I work so well together - he really brings out my ideas in a way that is unique.
NYX: Did you write it with a cast in mind?
ADN: Yes! I had always pictured Zach and Scout in these roles.
NYX: I have to mention the casting of soap legend Charlene Tilton, its so refreshing to see her in such a role, what was she like to work with?
ADN: Charlene is a doll. She is like an auntie to me now. We’ve worked together so many times it’s truly like working with family.
NYX: You’ve also got Halloween royalty Nancy Stephens!
ADN: Nancy’s daughter Jane was one of my first friends in LA!
NYX: How would you describe the movie as to me its like Ghost with a bloody splash of Friday the 13th!
ADN: That’s exactly it. I wanted to ground a romantic supernatural mystery with some slasher elements.
NYX: Was your character of Grayson based on anyone?
ADN: Not anyone in particular but wanted a bookish type to be opposite Sawyer.
NYX: You and Zachary Roozen who plays Sawyer share some intense scenes, did you both have long to rehearse?
ADN: We did run lines every night in the hotel. And worked through scenes on set before we shot.
NYX: Was all of the movie shot on location?
ADN: Yes in Kentucky
NYX: Will you be nervous when the movie has its world premiere at FrightFest?
ADN: Super excited to be at FrightFest - a big honour.
NYX: Do you believe in the paranormal?
ADN: Yes, I live in a haunted house. That’s for my next movie.
NYX: You’re a creative of many talents, do you have a favourite job?
ADN: Acting will always be my number one love.
NYX: So, what are you up to at the moment?
ADN: Finishing post production on our next horror film - DON’T LET THE CAT OUT.
NYX: Anthony Del Negro, thank you very much.
