Digital Cover: Ori Pfeffer
Talent: Ori Pfeffer
Photographer: Doron Gilad
Managing Editor: Chrissy Wang
Words: + EIC: Anthony Vu Cao
Special Thanks: Platform PR
Having been part of numerous projects, could you share a memorable experience or lesson from one of your projects that significantly influenced your career?
When I was 22, living in New York and just starting acting school, I was eager to be involved in the movie industry in any way possible. I ended up getting background work on a Sydney Pollack film starring Harrison Ford. The night before, I was so excited about the opportunity that I even wrote a letter to Sydney Pollack, along with my headshot, hoping he might notice me and upgrade me from background to a speaking part.
I set my alarm for 6 AM for a 7 AM call time, but when I woke up, I realized I was an hour late. Panicking, I raced across New York City on rollerblades, holding onto taxi bumpers like a madman, imagining I’d be fired before I even had a chance. When I finally arrived on set, I gave Sydney my headshot and letter, and he was polite but that was about it.
Then, I approached Harrison Ford, told him I was an aspiring actor, and asked for any advice. He looked at me and said, ‘Kid, my overnight success took me 15 years.’ That moment stayed with me. It was the last time I was ever late to anything, and over the years, through the ups and downs of this business, I’ve held onto that advice. It taught me patience, perseverance, and the importance of showing up—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally prepared.”
Are there specific genres or character types you find particularly compelling or enjoy portraying the most?
Growing up, films like The Ten Commandments and Ben-Hur had a profound impact on me. I would lace up sandals like a Roman soldier or turn any dry tree branch into a staff, imagining I could part the seas or strike water from a rock. These films connected me to something larger than life, giving me a sense of spirituality and wonder through their biblical stories. To this day, I still feel that same childlike sense of awe when I step into a new role, particularly those with deep historical or spiritual undertones. Whether it's a period drama or a story grounded in faith, I find magic in exploring different worlds and connecting with these narratives on a deeper level. It's not just about portraying characters—it’s about engaging with the stories in a way that feels personal and transformative.
And in a way, a project like MARY feels like a full-circle moment for me. It’s as if I’m reconnecting with the very spirit of those early films that inspired me, but this time, I get to be a part of a story that has its own resonance and depth. It’s a journey that bridges the gap between my inner child and the storyteller I’ve become today.
Looking back at your journey, what pivotal moments or decisions do you feel have shaped you both personally and professionally as an actor?
After finishing my acting studies in New York, I was fortunate enough to be part of the off-Broadway hit De La Guarda. It was a thrilling time, and soon I was being asked to help open the show’s new company on the West Coast. Just as I was about to make that move, I booked my first film in LA, starring Sean Young and Ron Perlman. It was a dream opportunity—but it came with a catch. The shoot was only six days, and the schedule conflicted with my theater production. I was faced with a tough choice: stay in the safety of the steady, reliable gig and continue with the show, or take a leap and chase my dream of acting in film, even though I had no idea what would come next. As a broke, young actor, it was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. But ultimately, I chose the film. I knew if I didn’t take the chance then, I might always wonder what could have been.
That decision shaped me both personally and professionally. It taught me the value of taking risks, and it set me on the path to where I am today, knowing that sometimes you have to bet on yourself, even when the future feels uncertain.
With the growing popularity of streaming platforms, how do you perceive the changing landscape for movies, and how does it impact your approach to acting?
The biggest shift with streaming platforms is the access they provide to creators from all over the world. Platforms like Netflix have opened the doors for a global conversation in film and TV, allowing unique voices and stories to be heard on a massive scale. On the short-form side, streaming has democratized content creation, enabling artists from every corner of the world to upload their work and potentially find an audience.
In terms of film and television, it’s been incredible to see the international success of shows like Fauda from Israel or Squid Game from South Korea. These are just a few examples of how streaming has created a global stage where content and performers from different cultures and perspectives can truly thrive. For the first time, we’re seeing original content and talent reaching audiences in all corners of the earth, and that’s a game-changer.
”MARY" narrates the untold story of Virgin Mary and you play her father, who played an important part in her journey. How did you prepare for your role?
As a father to two beautiful girls and a boy, I think my own experience was a fantastic starting point. This story, at its core, is about the complexity of family dynamics—about the challenges of being a parent, and how we navigate our role in shaping our children's lives while also giving them the space to find their own paths. The age-old question of how much to guide them, how much to let go, and how to trust them to walk their own journey without imposing our expectations.
For Joachim, the key emotional arc was the realization that, as a father, you have to let go of the thing you love most in the world—your child—so they can fulfill their destiny. That idea of both protecting and releasing is something that deeply resonated with me personally. It became a powerful anchor for my portrayal of Joachim, as I tried to embody that delicate balance of loving support and the bittersweet wisdom of knowing when to step back and allow Mary to follow her own divine calling.
Could you share any behind-the-scenes anecdotes or memorable experiences while filming "MARY"?
Filming MARY in Morocco was a blast—not just because of the stunning scenery, but because we all stayed in the same hotel and quickly went from awkward breakfast hellos to... Acro Yoga. Noa, who plays Mary, wasted no time getting me on a mat and twisting her into the air like a human pretzel. I got hooked (and probably embarrassed myself), but soon enough, everyone was in on the fun.
Hila, who plays Anna, became our Ashtanga Yoga queen, Milo led the gym workouts, and I teamed up with Ismael, the local horse master, to get the cast riding horses. (One of my life passions—so I took full advantage!) Before we knew it, we had a full-on recreational program, all thanks to the cast. It was a hilarious, sweaty, and very horse-filled way to bond off-screen. By the end, we were less like coworkers and more like a circus troupe.
“Staying creative is my way of maintaining some semblance of mental balance that and my kids!”
What is your favorite thing to do when you're not on set?
When I’m not on set, you’ll find me outside, riding horses, hiking, or doing anything active to avoid the temptation of staying in my room. If I’m not moving, I’m usually on Duolingo, trying to learn Italian (I swear I’ll be fluent one day) or attempting to play guitar—let’s just say, the guitar is winning for now.
And wherever I am, I turn into a full-on TripAdvisor enthusiast. I’ve got this weird FOMO where I can’t resist ticking off every “must-see” spot in the area. The moment I have a free minute, I’m hunting down recommendations, dragging myself to the nearest landmarks just to avoid feeling like I’m missing out. The worst part is when I’m in my room too long—I start FaceTiming my kids, nudging them to show me their day, because missing my family is a real thing.
Tell us about Joachim, your character in the movie. What is he like and how has playing him changed your view on the Holy story?
To be honest, I didn’t know much about Joachim going into this project, but I was really intrigued by his journey. At the start of the story, he’s in a real pickle, and he makes that classic deal with God—“If you help me out, I’ll do this in return.” It’s that moment we’ve all had, right? When you’re in a tough spot and you make a bargain, hoping for a miracle. Well, in Joachim’s case, God hears his plea—but with a big personal price to pay.
Taking away the mythological context, what struck me most about Joachim’s character is that, at its core, it’s a family drama. His decisions and the weight of his choices really resonated with me. It made me think about the sacrifices we make for the ones we love, and how far we’re willing to go to fulfill promises, even when the cost is higher than we expected.
What would be your dream role to play if you haven't played it yet?
I don’t have a specific role in mind, but what I really dream about is the time to truly dive deep into a character. Working in film is usually such a fast-paced environment, with quick turnarounds, and while I love that, I sometimes wish I had the chance to spend a year really immersing myself in a role. I imagine spending months exploring every layer of a character, living with them, and seeing how that kind of deep preparation would serve the story. It’s less about a particular character and more about the creative journey and the impact that time and commitment could have on the final performance.
What is your training routine?
My training routine really depends on the season, but one of my favorite activities is open water swimming. I love it—I swim out until it gets too deep and I can't see anything anymore! That’s when the excitement kicks in. There’s something about being out there in the elements, just you and the water, that really challenges you both physically and mentally. Overcoming that fear turns it into a double workout.
On other days, I take my 82-year-old dad to the open beach gym. It’s a great way to motivate both of us to stay healthy and active. Plus, it’s such a precious time we spend together. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about enjoying the little moments and making memories. It’s funny, though —roles are kind of reversed now. It's my turn to take care of him, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
How do you balance your mental health with your busy schedule?
I don’t know that I really balance it, to be honest. It’s the funny thing about this job—the mind is always busy. If it’s not consumed with the current project, it’s obsessing over getting the next one. So, no real rest. But the upside is it keeps me in a constant creative state, and that’s what keeps me sane... or at least mostly sane. Staying creative is my way of maintaining some semblance of mental balance that and my kids!
What can fans expect of Ori Pfeffer in the upcoming year?
Fans can expect some exciting things from me this year! I had the good fortune of working with the brilliant director—Terrence Malick—so keep an eye out for that film coming later this year. I also had my first experience with Italian cinema in the movie For The Love of a Woman, which was a fantastic journey. I’m really proud of this project. On top of that, I’m diving into my passion project—The Maccabees. It’s my first time writing a screenplay, so the process is taking time, but it’s incredibly gratifying. I’m excited to share it with everyone when it’s ready! GR8T
