Interview with Annabella Gutman

Annabella Gutman by Mandi Pimental

Annabella Gutman is a multi-ethnic actor with big dreams and an even bigger heart.  The star of Blink of an Eye and The Mission talks to Runway about getting into character, her philanthropy and of course fashion. And who doesn’t love a girl who stays fit by having fun outdoors while still indulging in her favorite treats?

 

You have quite the impressive resume, having worked in film, music, television and theatre.  Do you have a favorite medium that you prefer to work in?
Acting for feature film is my favorite!  I am passionate about acting.  I love to express myself in different ways and challenge myself by putting myself in the shoes of different characters.  That is my favorite part of it.  In the upcoming year, my goal is to land more work in comedy and action films.



You have starred in films such as Blink of an Eye and The Mission, as well as many others.  Do you tend to favor dramatic roles?  And how do you prepare for such roles?
Blink of an Eye was a very heavy role to play.  [It was] based on a woman who was in the wrong place at the wrong time and was betrayed by a friend.  I had to express a lot of anger and crying.  It came very natural.  If I have to cry, I think about something that's sad that would make me cry, perhaps losing a person that I care about.  Anger, I think about something that would make me upset, like if a good friend backstabbed me.  The Mission was more comedic and it was just fun to play a goofy and clumsy person.  For a role like that, it's more carefree and I'm naturally funny so I focus on being more of a character. 

Do you have any upcoming films or projects you are working on?
As of now, I am looking to book a few projects but I can't mention anything specifically.

Your accent is beautiful! Can you tell us a little bit about your background?
Thank you very much!  I was born in Israel, and I can speak a few different languages.  On my mom's side, it's Portuguese.  On my dad's side, it's Czech, Russian and Polish.  Living in the United States for so many years, I have kind-off created my own accent.  People usually tell me that it's very sexy and attractive and I had better not lose it.

Let's jump into fashion!  We have seen you rock many looks, from designer dresses to casual cut offs.  What is your favorite weekend style? And do you have a favorite designer?
On the weekends, I love to dress comfortable, which for me means cool sundresses or black leather pants with a tank top, depending on what I'm doing.  My favorite designers are Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci.

What is your favorite fall fashion trend?  In addition, what is a trend you would like to see leave and never return?
In fall, it's all about the colors.  So, I like to dress in the cold colors like grey, black, dark purple, navy blue and burgundy.  I love wearing a French coat with sexy high boots.  I love leggings with a comfy sweater and leather jacket.  And, don't forget a nice scarf, gloves and hat.  I love all the winter and fall accessories!  I don't like the ballerina skirt trend.  I think that should be reserved for ballerina dancers.  I don't really find it to be a cool look. 

I read that as a hobby you enjoy doing makeup, what are some of your top go-to beauty products?
I use aloe vera and vitamin C products before I apply my moisturizer and sun block.  I like Dior and Estee Lauder.  A daily light makeup I use is Bare Minerals.  L'Oreal and Mac are my favorites for red carpets and events.  For me, it's all about the eyes.  I try to make them stand out the most.

As an actor, it is important to stay healthy and always look your best and you are in great shape.  Can you share your workout routine?  Any fall treats that you just cannot resist?
Believe it or not, I love dancing in front of the mirror at home and I'm sure my neighbors hate me for it.  I also like basketball, tennis, swimming, and hiking.  If I need a good sweat, I go to a hot yoga class.  My Coffee Bean and Juicy Fruit are my treats, not just for fall, but all year round!

Throughout your career, you have lived in both New York and L.A. Two very different cultures.  Do you have a favorite place to call home?
I love Los Angeles!  We have amazing weather in LA and an amazing lifestyle that I'd never trade for anything in the world.  New York is more business, and people are walking everywhere and there's a lot more action, so it's fun to be in New York, but Los Angeles is home for me.

Your philanthropy is inspiring.  You have worked with top charities such as the Red Cross and World Peace One, as well as helping to rescue animals.  How do you choose what charities you align yourself with, and are you currently working with anyone now?
I choose to support causes that I can relate to and that I'm passionate about.  When I was growing up, we had a lot of animals besides cats and dogs.  Behind the house, we had a farm with chickens, cows and horses.  My dad had an aquarium with fish and I had a parrot.  So, I love animals and I believe in animal rights.  Same with world peace, I'm very passionate about that as well.  Coming from Israel, I remember being a little girl during the Gulf War, so I'm very much against violence, hatred and fighting.  I try to
promote peace and love, which includes helping others during times of emergency. 

Lastly, can you share with our readers, what is next for Annabella Gutman, and leave us with your favorite quote that has inspired you on your journey.
I will continue following my passion and dreams.  For the last few years, I was focused on producing, but now I'm getting back into acting and fashion.  I hope to land a lot of good work as an actor and model and be able to use my name to promote the charities that I believe in.  I truly believe that when you give, you receive.

And here's my quote.  What goes around comes around, so treat people the way you want to be treated.