Exclusive Interview with Allison Pittel: Insights from the Star of ‘SCREAMBOAT’ – PopHorror

In the quirky horror comedy Screamboat, Selena, played by Allison Pittel, faces a unique challenge in the bustling city of New York. After moving from the Midwest to pursue her dream as a designer, she unexpectedly finds herself battling a vengeful rat named Steamboat Willie. This energetic film, from director and writer Steven LaMorte, puts a fresh twist on the beloved 1928 Disney classic featuring Mickey Mouse.

Selena’s journey highlights the struggles many face while chasing their dreams in New York. Like many newcomers, she’s not instantly successful. Instead, she’s bartending and grappling with self-doubt. This realism resonates with audiences, showcasing that the path to success often involves community support and resilience. It’s a refreshing take on what it means to be a New Yorker.

Pittel shares her connection to Selena, emphasizing how closely her character’s journey mirrors her own. Moving to New York to pursue acting, she understands the heartbreak and determination involved in following one’s passions. “It’s not a traditional success story. It’s about getting back up after being knocked down,” she explains.

Filming took place mostly on the Staten Island Ferry, bringing an authentic, vibrant backdrop to the story. The camaraderie among the cast grew naturally as they braved the elements together. Pittel bonded closely with her fellow actors, including Amy Schumacher, who plays an EMT named Amber. Their evolving relationship becomes a focal point, transforming from initial tension to a strong alliance by the film’s climax.

Working with David Howard Thornton, who portrays the rat, added another layer of creativity. Thornton’s commitment to physical performance in his role heightened the excitement on set. Interestingly, much of his interaction involved a puppet created by Quantum. This split setup allowed for a unique blend of performances that brought humor and tension to the film.

The film cleverly weaves in various Disney references, which adds a lighthearted touch that fans can appreciate. Pittel confesses her love for Disney, recalling her childhood favorites like The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast. These nostalgic elements make the film enjoyable for a wide audience.

Despite mixed reviews from critics, Pittel encourages everyone to embrace the film’s fun spirit. “It’s not to be taken too seriously. It’s all about laughter and creative storytelling,” she says.

Aside from Screamboat, Pittel is exploring new projects outside the horror genre, delving into drama. She believes both genres share emotional stakes, highlighting the connections that make storytelling powerful.

As a lifelong horror fan, Pittel cites Jaws as a personal favorite, recognizing it as a masterpiece of character-driven storytelling. She’s excited about the resurgence of quality horror films, noting recent hits like Get Out and The Babadook as examples of the genre’s evolution.

With dynamic performances and engaging storytelling, Screamboat brings a fresh perspective to the horror comedy genre. It’s an exciting watch, filled with humor and heart, perfect for fans looking for a good time.

[For more insights on the film and its creative team, check out the official release on Digital, Blu-ray, and DVD on May 2, 2024.](https://pophorror.com)

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