Interview by Paul Salfen
In the vibrant landscape of 2025’s cinematic offerings, Star People stands out as a genre-defying gem that blends sci-fi intrigue with raw human emotion. Directed with sensitivity and written with masterful nuance, the film follows a photographer, Claire, who receives a tip that could unravel the mystery of her childhood UFO sighting. As a heatwave and unexpected guests complicate her investigation, the story weaves a tapestry of connection, empathy, and self-discovery. AMFM Magazine sat down with the film’s star, Kat Cunning, to discuss their transformative role, the film’s unique journey, and their multifaceted career as an actor, musician, and storyteller.
A Role Close to the Heart
For Kat Cunning, playing Claire in Star People was a deeply personal experience. “I’ve never gotten to play such a grounded, real character that’s so similar to me as a real human,” Cunning shared during our conversation. The role allowed them to channel their authentic self, a rarity in their previous character-driven work. “The people who really know me really see me in the performance of Claire,” they explained, highlighting the emotional authenticity they brought to the character.
The film’s script, which Cunning described as “masterfully sensitive,” immediately captured their attention. “There are so many nuanced elements in the film that you wouldn’t imagine somebody could write in a way that is sensitive to all of them and also feels true and grounded for all of the characters,” they said. The story’s unpredictable journey and its ability to balance sci-fi hooks with heartfelt human connections left a lasting impression. “I was so moved by it and believed all of the characters who were written,” Cunning added. “I loved that it was this strange weave of a plot that ended exactly where I needed to.”
The Sci-Fi Hook with a Human Core
Star People begins with a tantalizing premise: a photographer chasing answers about a childhood UFO sighting. Yet, as Cunning noted, the film’s true power lies in its ability to surprise audiences with its emotional depth. “It’s kind of fun that there’s the hook of it being sci-fi,” they said. “You go watch a sci-fi movie, and then you get the surprise, the one-two punch of it really getting you in the heart on the ground.” The film’s blend of cosmic mystery and grounded human connections creates a narrative that resonates on multiple levels.
For Cunning, the film’s message is clear: it’s about fostering empathy and connection. “I hope that people take away a greater sense of empathy for people who they don’t perceive themselves to be like,” they shared. Through Claire’s search for extraterrestrial answers, she discovers the humanity in those around her, learning that connection is the heart of our existence. “The journey is just as important as finding the aliens,” Cunning emphasized, encouraging audiences to embrace the film’s emotional core.
A Multifaceted Artist’s Journey
Cunning’s path to Star People mirrors Claire’s own dedication to a lifelong passion. Starting ballet at age three after being captivated by a VHS of the Bolshoi Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty, Cunning’s career has evolved from concert dance to acting and music. “I’ve just trusted the seed of that desire to tell a story,” they reflected. This storytelling instinct drives their work across mediums, from the stage to the screen to their latest musical project, the EP Glass Jar.
Cunning’s recent single, “Dancer,” is a testament to their creative vision. “The illusion between dancing and fighting is sort of the cornerstone of this whole EP,” they explained. The project, which includes a self-directed music video, allows Cunning to embody characters they haven’t been cast in elsewhere. “I’m casting myself in characters that no one else has hired me to play,” they said, encouraging others to express themselves fully and fearlessly.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
For those looking to follow in Cunning’s footsteps, their advice is simple yet profound: “Trust your own voice and what moves you.” Reflecting on their own “Hail Mary” moments—like lying about singing in a Broadway audition or submitting extra audition tapes for Star People—Cunning emphasized the importance of resilience. “Being an artist, you have Hail Marys all the time because you also get rejections like 200 times more,” they said. Their ability to let go of losses and stay curious keeps them grounded. “I forget the things I lose,” they admitted. “What is meant for you will come for you.”
What’s Next for Kat Cunning
Beyond Star People, Cunning is keeping busy with projects like One Big Happy Family and Mother Wolf, where they star opposite Melissa Leo. Fans can also catch their music videos and upcoming live performances, including shows in Los Angeles at The Echo on October 6 and New York on October 15. With a “yeehaw” music video for “Dancer” and a Texas-sized invitation to fans, Cunning is ready to bring their infectious energy to audiences everywhere.
As Star People hits theaters, Cunning hopes audiences leave with a renewed sense of connection. “I hope that people leave the movie feeling closer to their fellow man,” they said. With their heartfelt performance and boundless creativity, Kat Cunning is not just chasing stars—they’re becoming one.
Star People is now playing in theaters. Check out Kat Cunning’s latest single, “Dancer,” and stay tuned for their upcoming performances and projects.
