IN CONVERSATION WITH ARTURO CASTRO

interview by JANA LETONJA

Arturo Castro is entering a thrilling new chapter in his career, one defined by bold choices, high-profile projects, and undeniable star power. Known for his breakout comedic turns in ‘Broad City’ and his own critically acclaimed sketch series ‘Alternatino with Arturo Castro’, he has quickly become one of the most versatile actors working today. This year marks a milestone as he takes on an impressive slate of major studio projects, from Disney’s ‘Tron: Ares’, premiering on 10th October, to star-studded action comedies, thrillers, and beyond. Fresh off his scene-stealing performance in Prime Video’s record-breaking ‘Road House’ remake and the launch of his comedy podcast ‘Greatest Escapes’, Arturo continues to prove he can shine in any genre. With charisma, wit, and a growing global profile, Arturo Castro is a star you’ll be seeing everywhere.

You’ve had such a diverse career already, but ‘Tron: Ares’ feels like a major new chapter. How does it feel stepping into such an iconic franchise?

Walking into the ‘Tron: Ares’ set for the first time was a core memory for me. It was my first job post-strike, and I remember how surreal it felt to be part of something this big. I felt like my chest was going to burst from gratitude.

What can you tell us about your character in ‘Tron: Ares’ and what drew you to the project?

Seth is Eve’s right hand man, friend and fellow programmer at ENCOM. He’s fiercely loyal, doesn’t take life too seriously, and is always on board with any adventure. However, when real danger pops up, he’s not afraid to put himself in the line of fire for his friend.

You’re sharing the screen with Jared Leto, Jeff Bridges, and an incredible ensemble cast. What was that experience like?

I moved to New York at 19 from Guatemala, and I didn’t know anyone in the industry. But, I had this feeling that if I kept my head down and worked my ass off, then one day I’d be in rooms with people I admire. So, when I work with people I grew up watching, it’s the literal manifestation of that feeling coming true. It feels surreal, but also validating.

You’ve wrapped multiple films recently, from ‘Matchbox’ with John Cena to ‘Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice’ with Eiza González and Vince Vaughn. How do you choose projects across such different genres?

I’ve been very lucky. And I don’t mean that flippantly. I mean that the right projects have found me at the right time. Post-pandemic and post-strike, I decided to lead with gratitude as much as I can. To know and acknowledge what a one-in-a-million opportunity I have to do this job. That new outlook has brought incredible people, and projects into my life.

‘A Place in Hell’ has an intense lineup with Michelle Williams, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Andrew Scott. How was it diving into a darker thriller alongside such powerhouse actors?

First off, I’m a huge fan of Chloe Domont, and I was honored that she wanted me in her movie. I remember being in a scene with Michelle and Daisy,and having this outer body experience like “I can’t believe I get front row seats to watching these amazing actresses work”. And honestly, as dark as it was, it was a very fun set to be in. Lots of laughs.

On the flip side, you’re also starring in R-rated comedy ‘El Tigre’ and the sci-fi comedy thriller ‘Into the Sky’. Do you feel more at home in comedy, or do you enjoy constantly switching gears?

I love switching genres as much as I can because I get to learn from the best in each one. But the real sweet spot is when you can switch up the genres within the same movie. For example, in ‘El Tigre’, as silly as it was, it had some deeply genuine and heartfelt moments. ‘A Place In Hell’ had moments in the script that had me cackling. I love it when you get both, because to me, that’s the closest to what life feels like.

Looking back at your time on ‘Broad City’, how do you feel that role shaped the way audiences see you today?

I think Jaime is such a sweet character and that show is so beloved that people for a long time associated me with only comedy. Being on that show was honestly like going to comedy college with that incredible cast. I have ‘Narcos’ to thank for people seeing me as someone with range. Season 3 of ‘Narcos’ and Season 4 of ‘Broad City’ came out within a week of each other and people were absolutely shocked at the switch up.

‘Alternatino with Arturo Castro’ was a unique project that highlighted your comedic range and voice as a creator. Do you have plans to revisit sketch comedy down the line?

I’d love to. I think sketch is such a good vehicle for social commentary, and you get to play with so many different stories in short spurts. I don’t know if I’d do another full on sketch comedy show, but a few one offs are definitely in the future.

You’re working with so many acclaimed directors across your upcoming films. What have you learned from being on such different sets?

That kindness and clarity of vision are contagious. When you have someone at the helm who loves the story and cares for the characters in it, it produces some of the best work I’ve ever been a part of, and permeates the whole set with high morale.

With projects ranging from comedy podcasts to big-screen blockbusters, how do you balance creativity with career strategy?

To be perfectly honest, my only strategy is to try my best to never waste the audience’s time. It’s the most precious resource we have, and if they’re taking time out of their day to watch something you’re in, you have to leave it all on the dance floor. I do projects that I believe I can contribute to.

As a performer with roots in both comedy and drama, what keeps you inspired to keep pushing your range?

I just genuinely love performing. I’ve loved it since I was 4 years old, and in order to grow, and to become better at this thing I love, I think it’s important to challenge yourself. I like stepping into projects where I don’t fully know the roadmap to how to tell the story, and figuring it out with my cast and director along the way.

You’re also a storyteller behind the camera with ‘Alternatino’. Do you see yourself directing or producing more in the near future?

I’m actually developing 3 movies in a producer/creator role at the moment, and it’s one of my favourite things to do. I can’t share too much yet, but yes, in the near future, lots of projects from my mind and heart to share.

Finally, with such an exciting year ahead, what’s the one thing you’re most looking forward to sharing with fans?

Everything, truly. This coming year I have 5 things coming out that I’m so excited about, starting with ‘Tron: Ares’. And if you see it as a trajectory, they couldn’t be more different from each other, and that makes me feel so elated and grateful. I will say that ‘Matchbox’ is very close to my heart. I got engaged during that shoot, and our cast and our crew were all just firing on all cylinders. There wasn’t a single day on that set that I didn’t have a pinch-me moment.

TEAM CREDITS:

photography JAMESON BALDWIN
photography assistant ALARIC MA