Behind Closed Doors with Paulina Ophelia Sophie

Movie Marker Magazine went behind closed doors with actress Paulina Ophelia Sophie to chat about her journey to being a professional actor and her role in The Loss, a film by Mahal and Margherita Marsiglio

Welcome to Movie Marker! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?

I am an actress and writer originally from Munich, Germany, now pursuing my dreams in New York City. I studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, which transformed both my craft and personal growth. I’ve participated in films, made my New York theatre debut in A Sketch of New York, and was featured in a movie directed by Joe Bartone who previously worked with Pierce Brosnan. I’m currently working on a play by Jim Moss titled Shooting Zombies, which is set to premiere at the Open Hydrant Theatre in New York.

Despite being deeply connected to my German roots, I’ve always felt an innate pull toward the U.S. The American dream fascinated me as a child, and when I moved here, it felt like stepping into a world I’d always imagined. That’s probably why I feel so at home here, even though I didn’t grow up in the U.S. I find it both thrilling and daunting to chase my dreams here, knowing how big and competitive the industry is. But I know this is where I need to be to make it happen.

I believe in big dreams and taking bold steps, even when the road is difficult. At my core, I’m someone who is constantly seeking growth—both personally and professionally. Whether it’s through acting, writing, or just understanding the world more deeply, I want to keep learning and evolving.

Wow! What got you into acting and made you realize that it was your chosen path?

I was introduced to incredible films at a young age, and classics like Gone with the Wind and Casablanca left a deep impression on me. My mom’s admiration for filmmaking and acting played a big part in shaping my dream to study and work in the field. She has a deep love for Tennessee Williams, and his works were practically a staple in our home. We even had posters of his plays in our living room, and they sparked many conversations about storytelling and human emotion. My mom has an incredible eye for detail, always pointing out nuances in performances that made me look at movies differently. Barbra Streisand is such a significant figure in my mom’s life that I often joke that she’s basically the third person in my parents’ marriage. Therefore, she has also influenced me in a tremendous way. She’s a reminder of what it means to pour your heart into your craft and to never shy away from being bold and authentic.

Acting is my passion because it allows me to tell stories that evoke deep emotions and shed light on unheard voices. It’s about diving into the depths of human emotion and exploring the parts of ourselves we often keep hidden – like peeling back layers of yourself to understand what’s underneath, and in that understanding, there’s a kind of liberation. The personal growth I’ve experienced through acting has been transformative. It’s a reminder that art and healing are deeply intertwined.

With all the roles you have played to date, has there been one particular moment in your career that you’re most proud of?

The Loss is a project that holds a special place in my heart. It’s a true story and despite the emotional weight of the film, the cast and crew created an environment that was supportive and respectful. Everyone involved treated Mia’s story with the care and sensitivity it deserved, which made all the difference during such an intense process. The bond we formed on set was a testament to the love and dedication everyone had for bringing this story to life.

Mia’s legacy is one of courage, dignity, and selflessness, and it continues to inspire. Driven by her memory, her family founded the Mia Neri Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to raise funds to support medical research in the field of children’s tumors. It’s a powerful reminder that Mia’s light continues to shine, not just through this film but through the ongoing work of the foundation, which seeks to bring hope to other children and families facing similar battles. It made perfect sense that The Loss had its premiere at the Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone in Rome, Italy. The foundation holds an annual charity event, a tribute to Mia’s spirit, her courage, and the ongoing mission to support research for children’s tumors. It felt like the perfect setting to showcase the film—so much of the story is about memory, legacy, and how we continue to honor those we’ve lost. The connection to such a meaningful event made the premiere even more impactful.

What is ‘The Loss’ film about?

The Loss is a heart-wrenching and deeply personal film about the life of Mia Neri, an 11-year-old Italian girl who tragically passed away from brain cancer. Written by her cousin Margheritha Marsiglio and co-writer Mahal, the script tells Mia’s story through the eyes of Maggie Marsiglio, her cousin and best friend. This perspective brings an intimate and emotional depth to the narrative, allowing viewers to experience Mia’s journey, not just through her own struggles, but through the profound bond the two shared.

The film explores themes of love, loss, and the resilience of family in the face of unimaginable tragedy. By telling the story through Maggie’s perspective, the audience is invited into the raw and personal emotions of losing a loved one so young—how it shapes you, challenges you, and ultimately inspires you to carry their memory forward.

The Loss is not just about mourning; it’s about celebrating the life of an extraordinary child who left an indelible mark on her family and friends. It’s a reminder of how the love we share can transcend even the greatest of losses.

How did you get involved in the movie?

When I first auditioned for The Loss, it was for the role of Mia. A few days later, I was asked to submit a self-tape for Maggie, her cousin and best friend. I remember the callback for Maggie came soon after, and to be honest, I didn’t think it went particularly well. So, when I found an email from the director the very next day telling me I was cast, I was completely over the moon. Growing up, I was surrounded by a lot of Italians, which definitely had an influence on me. My parents always took me to a specific Italian restaurant, and the people there became like a second family. They watched me grow up, and those experiences and connections shaped my childhood in many ways.

This project felt deeply personal to me in a way I’d never experienced before. It wasn’t just another audition—it felt like a story I needed to be part of. During the callback, I met the real Maggie, and it was such an emotional moment. I started tearing up right there in the room.

Being cast in this film wasn’t just exciting—it was an honor. The chance to bring Maggie’s perspective to life and to be part of telling Mia’s story is something I hold close to my heart. This role isn’t just about acting; it’s about doing justice to the memory of a little girl who touched so many lives and sharing a story that resonates deeply with anyone who’s experienced love and loss.

Going forward, which actors / directors would you like to collaborate with in future?

That’s a tough question to answer because there are so many incredible filmmakers who inspire me, but the first person that comes to mind right now is Damien Chazelle. I’ve always been a huge fan of old Hollywood films—the glamour, the storytelling, the music—and the first time I saw La La Land, I was completely blown away. It felt like a love letter to that golden era of cinema. The vibrant colors, sweeping music, and intricate choreography reminded me of the musicals my mom introduced me to as a child—films like Singin’ in the Rain or Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ classics. But what struck me most was how Chazelle infused those nostalgic elements with a modern sensibility, making it feel both timeless and fresh.

What made the experience even more special was watching it with my mom. When we both saw La La Land, we immediately turned to each other and said, The Way We Were. Sydney Pollack’s 1973 film, starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford. The emotional depth and romantic nostalgia of that movie felt echoed in La La Land. Both films explore love and ambition, and how they intertwine and sometimes conflict, leaving you with a bittersweet feeling that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Chazelle’s ability to evoke that same timeless quality while telling a fresh, contemporary story is something I deeply admire. It’s the kind of balance I hope to achieve in my own work one day—a way of honoring the past while creating something that resonates with audiences today.

We love an inside scoop. Can you tell us 3 things not many people know about you?

I was born and raised in Munich, Germany, but I’ve always felt an incredible connection to America. As a child, I fantasized about living in Los Angeles or New York which was influenced by the films and stories I grew up with. Moving to the U.S. as an Au Pair and later pursuing acting in New York City felt like fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Another fun fact is I also used to write novels when I was a child, and I think my dad, being a journalist, had a lot to do with that. Writing felt natural to me, and I loved creating my own little worlds. For some reason, I stopped during my teenage years—maybe life got busier, or my focus shifted. But through acting school, I’ve reconnected with that part of myself. It’s been like finding an old friend, and now I’m pouring my energy into my first full-length screenplay. It feels amazing to be writing again, combining my love for storytelling with everything I’ve learned as an actor.

Finally, even though I’m German, I’ve always preferred speaking English. I think it’s partly because of how I grew up—our household was filled with American icons, so English always felt familiar and natural to me. It’s funny, even before I moved to the States, I would catch myself talking to myself in English. It’s definitely a little quirk of mine, but one that’s always felt like a small connection to the life I eventually want to build here.

How can people follow your journey?

On my Instagram @paulina_ophelia_ or Facebook: Paulina Ophelia Sophie