KZ: Hi Ilsa! What was the hardest thing that you had to do for the film?

I: There wasn’t anything that was extremely hard. Honestly, I enjoyed everything about it! Occasionally the water was really cold, so getting in and out of it all the time wasn’t fun, but the temperature didn’t really bother me too much. I just loved being in the water and feeling it on my skin!

KZ: This is your first feature film! Did you receive any advice from the other actors?

I: Spending a lot of time on set and speaking with crew and cast members was great! I was told just to really enjoy every moment for what it really is, to love what you do and do what you love but most importantly to have fun! 

KZ: What was your favourite location to film for Blueback?

I: I loved filming in the house, which stood on the cliff looking out towards the ocean. It was beautiful and the house felt really like a home that belonged to a family. It reminded me of my home in a way, and it was nice to feel that sense of home while filming away from my own place.

KZ: You play the teenage version of Abby. Did you get a chance to meet Mia Wasikowska and Ariel Donoghue, who play the older and younger versions of your character?

I:  Meeting both Ariel and Mia was so fun. I got to spend time with both of them and talk about who they thought Abby was. We all sort of had the same feeling of what kind of person she was, but we all played her differently, which was good because people individually change so much over time because they learn and see new things. 

KZ: Can you share a behind the scenes secret with K-Zoners?

I: On set you always go for lunch breaks. One lunch break, they had these little dense banana muffins as a treat for after lunch. Everyone would usually take one, except me. I am not a huge fan of sweets, but those muffins were so yummy! I think I had about 10 within like an hour, I honestly think they were the best thing I have ever eaten and now regret eating so many! 

Blueback is in cinemas now!

Want to read more of our interview with Ilsa? Grab the February 2023 'G.O.A.T. Gaming' issue, on sale now!