I first discovered Annie Shapero on my screen in The Narrow Road to the Deep North – quite the harrowing watch. Since then, with my eyes and ears on every film festival circuit – and, of course, as a House of the Dragon fan – Shapero's name has been appearing everywhere.
The Australian actor is quite literally on the cusp of a breakout. Soon to be seen on the front lines of the battle for the Iron Throne as Black Aly in House of the Dragon season three – a character we'll be seeing much more of over the coming episodes this season – Shapero is one to watch if she isn't already on your radar. She's also starring in Saccharine, the Australian psychological horror film that was selected for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. While we already know plenty about what's next for Shapero, we wanted to get to know the person behind the performances a little better. Cinema-level, if you will. From revealing that Matthew Macfadyen's iconic hand-flex scene in Pride & Prejudice lives rent-free in her mind, to sharing that Spirited Away is the film she wishes she could experience again for the first time, I've never virtually met anyone more relatable.
Below, we speak with Annie Shapero about her favourite film, the last film she watched, and her favourite cinema.
What was the last film you watched?
The Mummy.
What is your favourite film of all time?
Before Sunrise (trilogy).
What is the genre you gravitate the most to?
This completely depends on what mood I’m in although period dramas are forever enticing to watch.
What film changed your life?
Portrait of a Lady on Fire in every way possible.
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What is a literary character you identify most with?
Winnie the Pooh.
Who is your favourite director?
Tough question! There are so many directors whose work I deeply admire. Joachim Trier is definitely one of my favourites though.
Which book would you love to see become adapted on-screen?
Still Life by Sarah Winman although my sources (Google) tells me that it is already in the midst of an adaptation.
Which is your favourite cinema?
Cinema Nova in Melbourne.
If you could watch a film for the first time again, which one would it be?
Spirited Away.
What movie scene has stuck with you?
Matthew Macfadyen’s hand flex in Pride and Prejudice. That’s pretty well imprinted into all corners of my psyche.
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Do you have a favourite actor?
That’s like asking me who my favourite child is and I don’t even have children.
Do you have a favourite cinema snack?
Salty, buttery popcorn and Maltesers. All mixed together in the popcorn box of course.
What is a line from a movie you always quote?
“You shall not pass” - Gandalf. I’d say it’s pretty applicable to a lot of situations.
What's your go to in-flight movie?
I mean, the last movie I watched on a flight was Divergent. There’s something so comforting about 2010’s nostalgia when flying.
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