It's interesting how life can take unexpected turns. Inspiration often comes from the most surprising places – just ask Jenna Ortega, the band's breakout member. Netflix cast WednesdayAs one of Hollywood's most sought-after young talents, Jenna has captivated audiences with her career from Disney Channel Caught in the middle for his exciting performances in the last few Shout However, what many may not know is that her passion for acting came from an unexpected source: a Denzel Washington movie. The film that set her on that path? The 2004 thriller Man on fire–which happens to be one of the The best movies of the 2000s.
In a recent interview with Vanity Fairhe Studio 666 The actress shared the moment that changed the course of her life. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an astronaut or even the president of the United States. But everything changed when she saw the 2004 action-thriller. Man on firestarring Denzel Washington and a young Dakota Fanning. Directed by late Tony ScottThe film follows Washington as a former CIA agent on a mission to rescue a kidnapped girl in Mexico City. For Ortega, this film, specifically Fanning's performance, had a profound impact, setting her on the path to becoming the actress she is today. In her words:
I am so grateful to my six-year-old self who wanted to be president and an astronaut… because I now realize I was always looking for a way out… Watching [Man on Fire] changed the entire course of my existence.
He Elena of Avalor The veteran voice actress's parents had fun with their daughter's new career ambitions. Her mom shared a video of nine-year-old Jenna performing a dramatic monologue (which fans have republished here) on Facebook. The clip, which Ortega later mentioned in his SNL monologue when She was a host in 2023He caught the eye of a casting director thanks to a family friend who passed him on. Before he knew it, his mother was regularly making six-hour round trips to Los Angeles for auditions.
Jenna's revelation adds another layer of appreciation to her already impressive body of work. It's fascinating to think that an intense and raw piece of work action movie as Man on fire It could inspire a young girl to pursue an acting career. However, it makes sense when you consider the power of cinema to move and transform. Not to mention that the spectacular performances were not only given by Denzel, but also by young Dakota.
Despite her undeniable talent, the You The actress's path to success was not without its challenges. As a young Latina actress, she often struggled to land roles in an industry that favored white actresses. Her first role was a brief appearance as a shooting victim in CSIbut quickly began to make a name for herself. After appearing in 30 episodes as young Jane in Jane the VirginOrtega's next big break came when he starred in the Disney Channel comedy Caught in the middleplaying the middle child in a large family. She continued to expand her resume with roles such as Jennifer Garner's daughter in the family comedy Yes, day.
Now, fast forward a little over a decade since Jenna first saw Man on fireand has become one of Hollywood's most sought-after talents. As far as the 2024 film lineup is concerned, he has already released two films:Winter Spring Summer or Autumn and Miller's Girl—with a highly anticipated third project, next Beetlejuice Beetlejuiceon the horizon.
Jenna Ortega's 2025 film calendar is shaping up to be just as packed, with at least two major film releases already scheduled for next year and the second season of Wednesday already confirmed. As she continues to forge ahead in her rising career, it's clear that the inspiration she drew from Man on fire All those years have only fueled her passion and drive. With each new project, the Scream alum proves she's here to stay and her fans are eager to see what she does next.
For Man on fireYou can watch the 2004 movie again Streaming on Fubo.