Akira Akbar who stars in Netflix’s “We Can Be Heroes,” sat with us at VULKAN to discuss her experience filming, what it was like getting to have powers, and more. Having always admired the world of film and television, the young actress has found her passion! When she isn’t acting, she finds herself baking, skateboarding, and more. We can’t wait to see where her career takes her next!

You can be seen acting in Netflix’s newest superhero film, We Can Be Heroes – which is expected to be released on Netflix this Christmas Day! Can you share a little bit about what filming was like for the movie and how you landed the role? 

I landed the role by first having an audition, then a callback, then I did a producer session and the rest is history.
Filming was so much fun! Working with a bunch of kids for 3 months was the funnest thing ever.

How exciting was it to act as a character who has superpowers? Did you have to do any special training or learn any special stunts? 

It was super exciting because it was my first time having superpowers in anything that I’ve been in so when I found out I was sooo excited! Before we started filming, we did like 3 weeks of training and it was actually really fun!

What can you tell us about your character, Fast Forward? 

My character Fast Forward has the unique ability to fast forward time by a couple of seconds to help people get out of trouble. She also has a twin, Rewind, who she bickers and fights with and soon realizes that they are stronger together than they are apart.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? 

I would have the power of teleporting because it would be super cool to be at a lot of places at once.

What inspired you to start acting?

Honestly, seeing people on tv made me realize that I wanted to do the same things that they were doing.

When you’re not acting, what are some of your favorite things to do?

I have a bunch of hobbies. One of them includes baking. I love to bake because it’s a creative process. Baking is not only about the taste but it’s also super fun to make. Also, I love skateboarding, run track, and play with makeup!

In 2019, you made your feature film debut in Disney’s Captain Marvel – what was it like to be a part of such a huge film? 

Working on this marvel film was such a life changing experience. I’m just in awe that i got to work with this amazing cast and crew, I will forever remember this amazing moment in my life.

You must have a superpower of your own because you make it all look so easy! How do you balance your acting career along with going to school and hanging out with friends?

Thank you!! Well having a schedule is the best thing for me because i tend to slack sometimes. Also, they have school for 3 hours on set.

What are some of your favorite movies to watch?

My favorite movies to watch are definitely coming of age movies and horror movies! They are very different genres but they are so much fun to watch!

Are you coming out with any new projects next year? 

Yes! I just filmed a movie called “Love You Anyway” with Wayfarer Studio and it just got announced so that should be coming in early 2021! Also, I’m working on a series, I can’t say the name yet but stay tuned!!

@VULKANMAG
Talent AKIRA AKBAR @akira_akbar
Interview MATT KOGER @mattkoger