Madelaine Petsch, known for her role in the original ‘Strangers’ movie, recently shared her experience of watching the film as a teenager in an exclusive interview. The actress reminisced about the impact the 2008 movie had on her as a young viewer, describing it as a terrifying experience. Petsch, who stars as Maya in the reboot of the horror franchise, recounted how she felt while watching the couple being tormented by masked killers at a remote vacation home.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, Petsch revealed that her first encounter with ‘The Strangers’ happened when she was left home alone by her parents. Her brother suggested she watch the movie, leading to a spine-chilling experience for the teenage Petsch. She vividly remembers the fear she felt being alone at home with large glass windows and imagining the masked killers coming for her. The relatable aspect of the storyline, where ordinary people with masks want to kill, added to the intensity of the horror for Petsch.
Having starred in both ‘The Strangers: Chapter 1’ and the recent release ‘The Strangers: Chapter 2,’ Petsch found herself immersed in the aftermath of a brutal attack within the storyline. Her character faces continued threats from the mysterious masked assailants, thrusting her into another harrowing battle for survival. The continuity of the franchise under the direction of Renny Harlin has kept fans on the edge of their seats, eager to see Petsch’s character navigate through the terror.
Petsch, well-known for her role as Cheryl Blossom in the long-running series ‘Riverdale,’ has also ventured into production with projects like ‘Maintenance Required.’ Despite the challenges of facing reviews of her work, Petsch remains focused on her performance and the impact it has. She believes that polarizing opinions about films are a sign of compelling storytelling and respects the diverse perspectives audiences bring to the viewing experience.
The actress emphasised the importance of being proud of her work, acknowledging that criticism is inevitable in the entertainment industry. She shared her perspective on the subjective nature of art and how different opinions contribute to the richness of the film landscape. Petsch’s dedication to her craft and her resilience in the face of critique reflect her commitment to delivering engaging performances that resonate with audiences.
For fans of the horror genre, ‘The Strangers: Chapter 2’ offers a thrilling and suspenseful cinematic experience. The renewed interest in the franchise, fuelled by Petsch’s involvement and the gripping narrative, promises a captivating viewing experience for audiences. As Petsch continues to navigate the challenges of her acting career, her ability to immerse herself in diverse roles and narratives showcases her versatility as an actress.
The legacy of ‘The Strangers’ franchise lives on through Petsch’s portrayal of Maya and the gripping storyline that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. With the release of the latest installment, fans can look forward to more heart-pounding moments and twists in the tale as the masked figures return to haunt the screen. Petsch’s journey from a frightened teenager watching the original film to a leading actress in the franchise underscores her growth and dedication to her craft.