The Cast
Director Betsy Burke spent over a decade in San Francisco, busy as a theater director and actor. With Night of the Starlings, she was well qualified to cast outstanding actors perfectly suited for the roles. And, she had the expertise to skillfully direct their performances in this character driven story.
Lauren Marshall as "Rae"
In her thoughtful, beautiful performance as the story’s heroine, Lauren transitions from an ignorant needy child to a courageous young adult warrior. The professionalism, commitment, and the personal insights Lauren brought to the role, enabled her to skillfully carry the movie- at 13 years old!
Sophia Meneses Ortega as "Berna"
A vibrant young talent, Sofia brings the humor and sass needed to challenge Rae and entice her into adventure. In the side-kick tension-breaking role of “Berna,” we smile when Sofia is on screen, anticipating what she is up to next. But as the stakes escalate, Sofia conjures the deep empathy needed to portray Rae’s caring best friend.
Shylo Molina as “Leroy”
And just in time, we have the prankster, the kid of mystery, the curandera apprentice, who keeps an eye on Rae. Shylo’s charisma and intelligence as an actor draw in the viewer and soften with mischievousness the darker elements of the story. Just looking into his eyes, we see magic.
Jayde & Aspen Martinez as “Helen & Harriet”
The ghost sisters! Their closeness as real-life sisters elevates the performances of Jayde and Aspen to portray ghost sisters. They embody eeriness as playful girls with the wisdom of older spirits. Were they scared to play ghosts? No! It is something Jayde & Aspen were thrilled to do. And they insisted on being barefoot, to better cull the energies of the Earth.
Micheal so convincingly portrayed an abusive creep that the crew gave him a wide berth on the set. They had to be reminded that in real life, Micheal is a really great guy! We all have dark and light in us, but Micheal has the skill and courage to allow the dark to saturate his performance.
Aubrey Trujllo as “Ma”
Michael Stephen Spring as “Danny”
While the character of “Ma” isn’t exactly a villain, she is a selfish mother who puts her vain, immature whims above the well-being of her daughter. Ma pays a hefty price by welcoming back her abuser. Aubrey skillfully and courageously portrays this character of weak moral fiber.
Dyron C Thompson as “Scary Larry”
On set, Dyron was so in character, that even when the cameras weren’t rolling, it was hard to get to know him aside from being “Scary Larry.” He embodied both the sensativity and strength of the warrior, the unsung savior, a rock of the Earth. Being Navajo and Creek Indigenous, he is a true and honorable representative of the land. He is a real hero.
William Kostel as “The Stranger”
As an actor, William has a presence that fills the screen. As “The Stranger,” William only has to shift his gaze for us to be on alert as to what evil “The Stanger” might enact.
The Villains
The Hero
The Kids
Mariah Padilla as “Maria”
It takes a lot of courage and depth to portray a famous and revered mythical icon. Mariah’s powerful performance haunts the viewer. She culls from the darkness to reveal secrets and warnings, with such power and conviction, that we are moved to sympathy for a character that is typically portrayed to be despised.
Lenore Armijo as “Abuela”
Lenore had been cast as “Abuela” since the project’s inception almost two decades ago. Her iconic portrayal is a perfect representation of the people of the land, people that have been here since New Mexico was a part of the Spanish colonial empire. Both Lenore and Abuela are seers, keepers of the past, and connected deeply to the spirits. Lenore has entertained and inspired through her gift of song. Check out the ancient La Llorona ballad under the credits, in which Lenore sings and accompanies herself on guitar. Expect to be moved.
Wayne D Wilkenson as “The Reverend”
Wayne played a double-crossing cowboy in Betsy’s first short film that she did in New Mexico, the award-winning Cowboys. She was happy she had a cameo for Wayne.
Scruffy Guys #1, #2, & #3
Betsy grabbed a few neighbors to fill in these roles. No wardrobe or hair adjustments needed.
The Townsfolk
The Icons
Featured Extras
Neighbors, their kids, and family of the cast and crew were happy to jump in. Advisors were worried about Betsy using so many kids in her movie. But they were a pleasure to direct and immersed themselves in their roles. We had a blast!
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