By It’s not every day a Zoom audition leads to a red carpet premiere, but for actress Pearly Mitnasala, Fern became a milestone project that blended mentorship, artistry, and heart. The short film, created entirely by high school students through the Film2Future program, premiered at the prestigious Saban Theatre as part of the annual screening and gala.
An Unexpected Role in a Meaningful Story
Fern tells the story of a quiet college student who finds renewed purpose through an unexpected friendship. Pearly plays Gladiolus — a bright, high-energy character described as having “main character energy and motherly instincts all wrapped in glitter.”
“I laughed when I first read the breakdown,” Pearly shared. “Me? Girly, bubbly Gladiolus? I breathe and people think I’m being sarcastic.”
The young casting team saw potential in Pearly and knew she was the star of their role. A virtual audition room opened, and on the screen were 15–16-year-old filmmakers supported by their adult mentors.
Channeling the Glitter
“When I saw them, I went full Amma-mode,” Pearly said with a smile. “But I snapped right back to actor-brain and gave them my best. They asked me to go full bubbly, and I just channeled all the hyper girls I’ve met over the years.”
Filming was completed in just two days, but the experience left a lasting impression. Director George Meddock, cinematographer Violet Ruano, and producer Nancy Palayo — backed by mentors Brian Habescot and Wendy Haynes — ran a professional, focused set that Pearly described as “tight, joyful, and shockingly professional.”
“These kids weren’t playing filmmaker — they were filmmakers,” she emphasized. “I felt safe, seen, and truly impressed.”
A Night to Remember at the Saban Theatre
In December, Pearly joined the cast, crew, and hundreds of guests — including celebrities, donors, and entertainment professionals — at the Film2Future Red Carpet Gala. Held at the iconic Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills, the evening was a celebration of young voices and the industry leaders who champion them.
“Seeing myself on screen at the Saban Theatre, just months after graduating from that very neighborhood? That’s something I’ll never forget. It was surreal,” Pearly reflected.
As Fern played to a cheering crowd, the moment transcended a typical screening. Pearly became both co-star and collaborator — walking the carpet with the very students who had directed her.
“I showed up to an audition. They showed up for their dreams,” she said.
“That night, we all walked that carpet like stars.”
About Pearly Mitnasala
Pearly Mitnasala has appeared in award-winning short films such as Wash My Sin (as Ria) and Conversion Therapy (as Sister Cecily). According to IMDb, Pearly’s work has earned her 16 festival wins and three nominations!
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm15853079
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