Two college freshmen make a pact to dump their high school sweethearts in the new romantic comedy Sweethearts, available to stream on Max now! Before the film’s release, we chatted with actress Ava DeMary, who plays Claire in the film, to learn more about playing a character different from her, the most fun scenes to film, and working with this talented ensemble!
Sweethearts follows Ben and Jamie, two college freshmen who have been best friends since 8th grade as they make a pact to break up with their significant others over Thanksgiving break. This leads to one chaotic night in their hometown that puts their co-dependent friendship to the test. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina star Kiernan Shipka plays Jamie and Booksmart actor Nico Hiraga plays Ben. The film also stars Charlie Hall, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Jake Bongiovi, and more!
“Kiernan [Shipka] was so sweet and down to earth.”
Ava got her start in the theater world, appearing on Broadway in “Matilda the Musical” and “Evita.” She has since played Davie Adams in the Max original series Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin and Vicky in the 2021 film After Yang. In Sweethearts, Ava gets to act and sing, combining her love of theater and film. Talk about the best of both worlds!
The name of a character can sometimes have a major impact on an actor’s prep for the role, and Ava revealed her character in Sweethearts was originally named Grace, but was later changed to Claire, which after filming, feels more fitting for her character’s personality.
“It’s Claire’s way or the highway.”
In the film, Claire is very outspoken and fiery, and Ava, who is more reserved and calm then her character, said it can be a challenge playing someone who is very different from you. But Ava said she just went for it and fully immersed herself in the role.
“All I really have to do is push myself but once I’m there, I’m in it.”
Sweethearts, which Ava describes as a movie “that will make me laugh cry and make me feel like I’m in college again,” has some hilarious moments. Ava’s character sings the National Anthem in the movie, and the performance is meant to go viral for all the wrong reasons!
“I used my nerves and put it into the performance.”
Ava said everyone on set was so funny, and it was the perfect film for her first professional comedy. She said she learned a lot from Kiernan, especially relating to someone who grew up in entertainment, and also said Charlie was the best person to spend early morning shoots with!
“It was a cast full of comedians.”
Thank you, Ava, for chatting with Young Entertainment! Make sure to follow her on her Instagram at @avademary. Watch the rest of the interview where we ask her more about her favorite behind the scenes moments, firsts on set, and stay tuned to the end for a round of rapid fire! While you’re there, be sure to like and subscribe to our channel for the latest news in young entertainment.
Consider this:
- Don’t shy away from taking on a character that is very different from you. While it can be nerve wracking at first, you will learn a lot from it.
- Stick to your passions, you’ll always find your way. Also, surround yourself with people who support you!
