featured image: Liz Calhoun Photography
Young and talented child star Mariah Bozeman graced the screen with Amy Adams and Anthony Mackie in the Netflix suspenseful thriller The Woman in the Window. The film tells the story of Anna Fox (played by Amy Adams), an agoraphobic child psychologist who becomes fascinated with watching the world through the windows of her New York City brownstone. She takes an interest in a new family–the Russells, who have moved in across the street; a husband, wife, and teenage son who appear to have very intense relationships. Anna’s life is turned upside down when she believes she witnessed a brutal crime. The film is based on the best-selling novel by A. J. Finn; shocking secrets are revealed and nothing and no one is what they seem. Acclaimed director Joe Wright expands his palette and is also known for such beloved and critically-acclaimed dramas as Atonement, Pride & Prejudice, and The Soloist excels in this taut thriller space.
I was able to chat with Mariah Bozeman about her role in the film, her audition process and more. Check out the interview below!
DG: What role did you play in the film?
Mariah Bozeman: I play Olivia Fox, the daughter of Anna and Ed Fox. Amy and Anthony are both amazing actors. We had fun joking on set and I learned so much from them.
DG: How did you prepare for the role and what was the audition process like?
Mariah Bozeman: I really learned about Olivia’s character and her relationship with her parents before I taped. I filmed my self-tape with my agent Jenny, then I received a callback, which I had to go to New York for. I was able to do a table read with the entire cast, which was great and very helpful. When I returned to Chicago, I had to wait another week before finding out that I got the role…I was so excited!
DG: That’s good! It seems like you prepared very well for the role. With his film being a thriller, were you a little frightened or intimidated?
Mariah Bozeman: I’m not really a huge fan of scary movies and thrillers, but being that I read the entire script before filming Woman in the Window, there were no surprises for me. Knowing what was going to happen each step of the way, took away the fear factor. I actually became less afraid of scary movies after going through the entire process.
DG: That is great that the film helped take that fear away from you. Being that you are young and already starring in films with greats like Amy Adams and Anthony Mackie, how did you get your start in acting?
Mariah Bozeman: My cousin Marcus Martin was studying film. He always believed that I would be an actress. Unfortunately, he passed away when I was 5. I waited a couple of years before I began acting again. I did theater camp and booked a commercial for a director’s website and I was hooked from that moment on.
DG: I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your cousin. I’m sure he motivated you and continues to motivate you in spirit.
Speaking of motivating and inspiration, are there any child actors that you look up to?
Mariah Bozeman: Yes! I think that Marsai Martin is great! I also love Storm Reid, Zendaya; they’re all so amazing and talented.
DG: Yes, when I think of child actors, I also think of those great ladies.
The Netflix film comes out tomorrow, Friday May 14 and it is a must-see. It will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Danii Gold 