A thesis film from Chapman University. This film is based on the true story of Jackson Smith’s grandma! I had the honor to be this very special girl in this story which took place in Germany, 1945.
director: Jackson Smith
producer: Amber Berk
casting: Terry Berland
my role: lead “Maria”
(the chocolate craving girl)
I played Maria at age 10 and my film mom is actually the daughter of the real Maria and the mother of the director – confused? Never mind, just enjoy the film.
The Chocolate Soldier won so many awards all over the world, that I stopped counting at some point. I also got an award for best Child Actress at the San Diego International Kids Film Festival.
3 trivial behind the scenes facts:
I was terribly sick with a really bad cold – they really did an amazing job with sound technique so you don’t hear it.
Jackson and I both ate a lot of Rice Krispies.
There was an enchanted garden with huge trees!
I finished 2 books during my breaks (6 shoot days).
Here is the real Maria, telling her story …
