“The End of Oak Street”’s Christian Convery on Anne Hathaway Playing His Mom and His Acting Breakthrough (Exclusive)

Christian Convery, a rising star in Hollywood, has garnered attention for his latest role in the sci-fi thriller “The End of Oak Street,” directed by David Robert Mitchell. At just 16 years old, the American-Canadian actor has already made a significant mark in the industry, clinching an Emmy for his performance as Gus in Netflix’s “Sweet Tooth.” Additionally, his film credits include appearances in notable titles such as “Cocaine Bear” and Guillermo del Toro’s Oscar-winning adaptation of Frankenstein.

In “The End of Oak Street,” Convery joins a distinguished cast that includes Anne Hathaway, Ewan McGregor, and Maisy Stella. The film revolves around the Platt family, portrayed by this ensemble, as they confront the challenges of life in an unfamiliar environment following a cosmic event that displaces their suburban neighbourhood. The film has recently hit theatres, adding to the excitement surrounding its release.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Convery spoke candidly about the intensity of filming. He explained that while lighter moments, such as scenes at a block party or family dinners, were enjoyable, the emotional scenes could be profoundly taxing. “On days when we were being a normal family, those days were super fun. But then there would be a whole week of just emotional turmoil. It can get pretty emotionally exhausting,” he reflected. This emotional commitment, he believes, enhanced the authenticity of their performances, allowing the cast to inhabit their characters fully.

The chemistry among the cast was palpable, which Convery attributes to their genuine connections both on and off the set. “To be honest, there really was no magical trick. I think we just hit it off straight away,” he said. The preparation for their roles included table readings and frequent meetings, allowing for open communication and a deeper understanding of their dynamics. Outside of rehearsals, the cast spent time together during lunch breaks and weekends, fostering a familial bond that translated to the screen. Convery remarked, “Portraying a family authentically in a movie is one of the hardest things to do. Having that bond in real life definitely made it easier.”

Discussing his experience with Hathaway, Convery expressed admiration for her talent and professionalism. “Anne Hathaway has been a hero of mine for a very long time,” he stated. Despite feeling nervous initially, he appreciated her approach on set. “She treated me like any other actor working at a respectable level,” he shared. This professional relationship allowed him to learn and engage on a normal level, enriching the overall experience.

Convery’s grounded nature is striking, especially for someone so young. Reflecting on his journey into acting, he revealed that he began at the tender age of six. His seriousness about the craft escalated when he took on the lead role in “Sweet Tooth” at nine years old. This marked a pivotal moment in his career, as he dedicated himself to understanding the film industry more deeply. “I started evolving and dedicating my time to understanding cinema, the process, how different actors take on different roles,” he explained. This commitment to growth and learning is evident in his approach to acting.

“Being a professional actor is not just about achieving success early on; it’s about continuous improvement,” Convery notes. “It’s important you never build yourself higher than you really are,” he added, highlighting the significance of humility in the entertainment industry. His dedication and perspective suggest that he is not only focused on his current achievements but is also committed to his long-term development as an artist.

As “The End of Oak Street” continues to make its way into theatres, audiences can anticipate a compelling blend of family dynamics and tension set against an otherworldly backdrop. Convery’s portrayal is sure to resonate with viewers, demonstrating the power of authentic relationships both on and off the screen.

With his early successes and a thoughtful mindset, Christian Convery is undoubtedly one to watch in the coming years. His combination of talent, hard work, and grounded attitude suggests that this young actor is well on his way to establishing a lasting legacy in Hollywood. As he continues to evolve in his craft, audiences can look forward to seeing more impressive performances from him in the future.