IN CONVERSATION WITH MICHAELA MCMANUS

interview by JANA LETONJA

Michaela McManus is stepping into a defining new chapter with her commanding lead performance in Redux Redux, the multiverse thriller that premiered to rave reviews at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival and arrived in theaters on 20th February before its VOD release on March 24th. In the bold, emotionally charged film, Michaela plays a grieving mother who traverses time itself to avenge her daughter’s murder, delivering a performance that balances ferocity, restraint, and raw emotional depth. Simultaneously, she appears opposite Patrick Dempsey in FOX’s new series Memory of a Killer, further cementing her presence at the center of a major television rollout. With both projects showcasing her range and intensity, she is having a powerful career moment that highlights her as one of the most compelling leads working today.

Redux Redux premiered to strong reactions at SXSW. What was it like sharing this film with an audience for the first time?

To be honest, I was a ball of nerves leading up to the premiere. This film meant a lot to me on so many levels. It landed in my lap at a time when I was really searching to play a different type of character. Playing Irene reignited that passion I felt when I first started out in this business. I poured a lot into it so sharing it with an audience felt a little scary. My whole family came out for the premiere. Having them there instantly calmed my nerves and grounded me. We went out that night to celebrate and all the anxiety just melted away. It was a night I’ll never forget.

What drew you to this role and its high-concept multiverse premise?

The biggest draw for me was getting to work with my brothers again, Kevin and Matthew McManus, the writer-director team behind the film. We grew up watching my mom act in various stage productions throughout Rhode Island. She was the one who really lit the fire in all of us to pursue this career in storytelling. We made big plans when we were kids, so getting to see that through and work together as adults is a literal dream come true.

Your performance balances grit, grief, and ferocity. How did you approach portraying a mother driven by both love and vengeance?

In some ways, Irene feels like the closest role to myself that I’ve ever played. I have thankfully never gone through something as horrific, but as a mother of three kids, I can absolutely relate to the intense love that could lead you down such a relentlessly brutal path. My own children were at the forefront of my mind when clicking into gear as Irene. It was draining to have to go into that headspace every day and re-live Irene’s nightmare, but having my brothers directing me was such a gift. They gave me so much space and patience. I felt completely safe with them at the helm. 

How do you ground an emotionally raw performance within a sci-fi framework?

I really credit my brothers for building such a grounded world within this sci-fi storyline. They trust the audience and know when to hold back and not force feed with overcomplicated exposition. They carved out these beautifully complex characters whose journeys are really the heart of the film. It’s an actor’s dream to work within that world.

The film explores time, loss, and second chances. Did it shift your perspective on any of those themes personally?

I think it’s very human to look back at the various forks in the road of your life and wonder what might have changed if you made another choice. I had a friend once tell me he believed that no matter what path you chose in life, you’ll always end up where you’re meant to be. I kept thinking about that quote throughout filming. This idea that it’s already in the stars. I think this movie really asks the audience to examine those what ifs. I appreciate the idea that we aren’t in control of our destiny and even if somehow we were able to harness control over it, it wouldn’t be as satisfying as we hoped. As enticing as revenge might feel in the moment, is there really any relief to it? 

Many are calling this a career-defining performance. Does it feel like a turning point for you?

It does feel that way for me. Irene is such a layered character. I love that she is both hard and soft, strong and weak. There was so much to explore and find while diving into her story. I feel like I’ve been dreaming of playing a role this complex and compelling since I started out. It’s incredibly satisfying to finally get that opportunity. It just makes me want to dive deeper and continue to play roles like this.

You’re also appearing opposite Patrick Dempsey in Memory of a Killer. What can you share about this project and your role in it?

Memory of a Killer is a really fun watch. I play a character who isn’t exactly who she seems on the exterior and as the season continues you start to see her unravel. I don’t want to say too much and give anything away, but there are lots of twists and turns you don’t see coming. The cast and crew on this show were so fantastic. I loved working with Patrick, such a lovely, kind scene partner and a total professional.

What excites you most about this moment in your career?

I feel like my career is being cracked open right now in the best way and I can’t wait to see what’s next. I’ve never felt more ready to tackle the next project. In a lot of ways, I feel like I’m just getting started.

What do you look for now when choosing projects?

I want to jump into material that scares me because it’s outside my comfort zone, and to play multi-faceted characters that challenge me and allow me to grow as an actor.

How do you decompress after playing such emotionally demanding roles?

My parents have a lake house in Massachusetts that’s shared with cousins. There’s a whole bunch of us that pile into the house during the summer. It’s my happy place. I flew straight there after wrapping Redux Redux and it was the perfect place to unwind and fill my cup with family time.

What kind of stories are you hoping to tell next, either in front of or behind the camera?

I’m about to go film a pilot I’m really excited about, The Rockford Files for NBC. It’s a terrific script and I get to play another strong female character. I also have a fun part in the new season of TED on Peacock. Working on a comedy was such a blast and a totally new experience for me. I want to keep expanding and jumping into uncharted waters whenever I can. 

With this powerful new chapter unfolding, what feels different about where you are now compared to a few years ago?

The experience of Redux Redux was so deeply fulfilling at a time when I really needed it. I’m so grateful to finally share the film with the world, but mostly I’m grateful for the perspective it gave me. You never know what’s around the bend.

TEAM CREDITS

talent MICHAELA MCMANUS
photography RAUL ROMO
styling EMILY BOGNER
hair MICHAEL DUEÑAS
makeup CAROLINE HERNANDEZ
editorial director and interview JANA LETONJA
editor TIMOTEJ LETONJA