Film Name: Sheryl
Director: Justin Best
Writer: Justin Best
Starring: Shaan Sharma, Al Thompson, Anthea Neri Best, Elise Robertson, Joseph Ruud
After she’s dumped by her serial killer boyfriend, a looks-obsessed woman goes on a bloody quest to create the perfect face.
In a new interview on Blazing Minds I got a chance to ask actress-producer Anthea Neri Best a few questions about her film ‘Sheryl‘, which recently showcased at the Romford Film Festival, where it won the “Best Director” award for a Feature Film.
Q. Your film ‘Sheryl’ has been selected to play at the Romford Horror Film Festival. Can you tell us what we can expect from the film?
A: In a world obsessed with perfection, where invisible scars run deep, Sheryl exposes the cultural epidemic of beauty sickness. It’s not a flaw in women—it’s a sickness embedded in societal norms. As Dr. Renee Engeln, PhD, says, “Beauty sickness is a cultural problem. It’s not something wrong with women; it’s a sick culture.“
Sheryl blends dark comedy and revenge thriller, like a twisted mix of Barbie and American Psycho. In just 72 minutes, it’s a bloody, thrilling ride that taps into a universal struggle: the pressure to conform to an idealized image of ourselves. It’s about fighting to love who we are in a world that demands we be everything we’re not. The real villain isn’t one person, but the societal expectations that make us feel
we’re never enough.
If you’re looking for a fun, sexy, dangerous film with witty, complex characters, Sheryl delivers. And if you want to witness a bad-ass woman chopping people’s faces off, there’s that too. It’s a wild ride, and once you’re on, you’ll be ready to go again.
Q. What attracted you to the script and the character of Sheryl Benito?
A: As a producer, Asian filmmaker, and actor, I am drawn to narratives that challenge the status quo—stories that confront uncomfortable truths, invite reflection, and provide an entertaining experience. With Sheryl, I wanted to create a character who breaks free from traditional representation, especially for women of colour. Too often, women of colour are relegated to one-dimensional roles, but Sheryl, the protagonist I’m honoured to play, is complex. It’s not just about her being Asian and Filipino woman. She is a serial killer, shattering stereotypes and challenging norms of race, gender, and morality in film. She is complex—dark, flawed, powerful, and deeply
human. Sheryl is more than the person who embodies her—she represents a larger whole, reflecting complex struggles that transcend any single identity. This role is about pushing boundaries, questioning perceptions, and rewriting what’s possible on screen. Sheryl mirrors the internal and external struggles many women, especially women of colour, face daily. By centering her story, we give voice to truths rarely
heard in mainstream media, asking: What happens when a woman of colour is both villain and victim, empowered and broken? Can we empathize with her, even as she commits unspeakable acts?
As a storyteller and actor, my goal is to spark meaningful conversations that challenge us, provoke reflection, and inspire growth—all while offering a fun ride. Through Sheryl, I hope to evoke a rollercoaster of emotions—laughter, discomfort, empathy, and introspection. This film mirrors the pressures we all face in a world that demands perfection while leaving little room for authenticity.
Ultimately, Sheryl is more than entertainment—it’s about questioning societal norms and sparking conversations that linger long after the credits roll. I want audiences to connect with a character who is relatable, lovable, and deeply human—someone who makes them feel seen and understood. This journey is thrilling, emotional, and thought-provoking, offering an experience that entertains, challenges, and
transforms in equal measure.
Q. What sort of preparation did you do for the role?
A: To prepare for the role of Sheryl, I immersed myself in horror films and serial killer documentaries to understand the complexity of these characters and the psychology behind their actions. I also delved into the societal pressures women face—especially the invisible burdens of trying to be the perfect partner, mother, professional, and image of beauty. These external expectations often become internalized, weighing on us in ways we can’t always see—creating “invisible scars.”
As a woman of colour, I felt a deep connection to Sheryl’s story. Navigating a world that demands conformity while suppressing our own dreams is something I personally relate to. The struggle to define our worth, identity, and authenticity in a society that constantly tells us we’re not enough is an experience I know all too well.
I also studied the psychology of serial killers, particularly how they reconcile their public image with their hidden darkness. Through Sheryl, I had the opportunity to explore this fine line—the emotional chaos many of us feel when we’re unable to be vulnerable about our struggles.
Balancing multiple roles in my own life—as a partner, friend, filmmaker, producer, and actor—helped me understand the immense pressure Sheryl faces and the toll it takes on her. My goal was to bring authenticity and empathy to her journey, showing that her extreme actions stem from deep pain and a desperate need for control in a world that often feels out of control. Sheryl’s journey speaks to the universal struggle of trying to meet impossible standards while questioning if we are ever truly enough.
Q. Are there any elements of the character which you feel reflect some of your own personality?
A. Yes, absolutely. There are moments in Sheryl that resonate deeply with my own experiences. Like many, I’ve found myself questioning, “Am I good enough?” while constantly navigating the pressures of perfection—pressures that are not only personal but deeply embedded in societal and cultural expectations. As women, we’re often expected to excel in so many roles—wife, partner, co-worker, sister,
friend—while also managing to maintain our passions, mental health, fitness, and education. It can feel like an impossible juggling act. The weight of these expectations, the constant need to be “everything” for everyone, while still being told we must embody happiness and empathy, can be incredibly overwhelming. And yet, there’s little space for us to show vulnerability or to admit that we’re struggling. We are expected to wear a mask of perfection, and if we don’t, we’re often made to feel as though we’ve failed.
This is something I think many women, and even men, can relate to. We are conditioned to believe that we must live up to this idealised version of ourselves, and if we don’t, we somehow aren’t worthy. It’s exhausting, and it’s something I’ve grappled with personally, especially as I strive to live authentically while balancing my career as an indie filmmaker, producer, and actor. However, while I can understand the emotional chaos Sheryl feels, I want to be clear: I do not condone violence or harming others in any way. Sheryl’s story isn’t about glorifying violence—it’s a dark reflection of what can happen when the crushing weight of these expectations goes unchecked. What’s important to me is the conversation it
sparks about self-worth, the pressures we face, and how we can begin to release ourselves from this toxic cycle. It’s about understanding that we don’t have to be perfect, and that it’s okay to not have it all together. We are all just human, navigating our own journeys, and it’s time we start embracing that truth.
Q. Did you make any changes to the character form how it was written in the original script?
A. Yes, one of the biggest changes we encountered during filming was the evolution of Sheryl’s character. Originally, Justin Best, the creator of Sheryl, envisioned her as “Sterile Sheryl”—cold, meticulous, and perfect in every way. However, as we began filming and I delved deeper into her psyche, I felt that Sheryl transformed into more of an “everywoman,” a modern woman trying to balance the pressures of being the perfect girlfriend, friend, employee, and so much more, all while secretly being a serial killer.
This shift made Sheryl far more relatable. Instead of being a distant, flawless figure, she became a complex, flawed woman struggling with impossible expectations. It added a layer of empathy to Sheryl, allowing the audience to see parts of themselves in her, despite her extreme actions.
This evolution also sparked a meaningful conversation. By grounding Sheryl in reality, we encouraged the audience to reflect on the internal and external pressures women face every day, and the complexities of balancing the multiple roles society demands. Sheryl’s development allowed us to create a character who is both relatable and dark, human and flawed—a character who, despite her actions, opens up a dialogue about the challenges of being a modern woman.
Q. What were some of your favourite moments during filming?
A: One of my favourite moments during filming was witnessing the true power of collaboration. There was undeniable magic on set—we weren’t just hoping for change, we were actively creating it. The energy was electric, full of joy and creativity, with everyone—cast and crew—deeply invested in a shared vision. It
wasn’t about recognition; it was all about the love of storytelling. Sheryl belongs to all of us. Once it leaves our hands, it belongs to the world and the horror community. Sheryl was made possible by every individual who believed in the power of teamwork and a collective goal to bring her story to life.
Filmmaking, for me, is about the connections we make—the laughter between takes, the quiet moments of understanding, and the collective commitment to creating something meaningful. It’s about building something together, piece by piece, brick by brick. We accomplished what many thought was “impossible.”
Filming Sheryl was my second time working with blood—and it’s stickier than I ever imagined. Some compared it to glitter; it gets everywhere! Having mostly worked in TV sitcoms, stepping into this controversial role, covered in blood and wearing incredible costumes by Stephanie Nguyen, was unforgettable. Fun tidbit: for the final scene in the all-white costume, I had to be sewn into it!
A huge thank you to Steven Segar (SEGAR LA) for catering the shoot—his avocado toast and chia pudding became legendary, keeping us fuelled through the long days.
Beyond all of this, the experience has been incredible. What started as one person’s dream has grown into something bigger than we could have imagined. We’ve seen fans get tattoos, form a cult following, and screen the film worldwide. It’s surreal how strangers have turned into family. And the best part? This is just the beginning. I’m beyond grateful to have been part of this journey.
Q. Did you experience any issues during filming?
A: Creating Sheryl came with its challenges. We faced the typical hurdles of a low- budget indie film—limited funding, tight schedules, unpredictable weather, day-for- night shots, and even a few encounters with snakes. But none of these compared to our biggest hurdle: belief. From the start, many doubted that Sheryl would even be made, let alone make an impact. But we refused to let that stop us.
Our true triumph lies in the incredible people who chose to believe—in the story, in each other, and in the vision Justin Best, our writer-director, set forth. Against all odds, we built something special: winning 18 awards, screening at world-class festivals, and inspiring fans so deeply that some even got Sheryl tattoos. The film became a movement.
What I’m most proud of is that we didn’t wait for permission. We didn’t wait for a studio to validate us or for the “right moment” to arrive. Instead, we created that moment. Every person involved chose to be part of something bigger than themselves. It wasn’t about waiting for an opportunity—it was about making one. We believed in our vision and in each other, and together, we made the impossible possible.
Sheryl is proof of what happens when we trust ourselves and each other. We refused to be defined by limitations and, instead, created something that moves and inspires. We didn’t just make a film—we created something lasting. And that’s something I’ll carry with me forever.
Q. What makes the film Sheryl stand out as something different in the horror genre?
A: Sheryl stands out in the horror genre by blending multiple tones and themes in an unconventional way. It’s not just a slasher; it’s a genre-bending ride that mixes horror, dark comedy, and romance while tackling uncomfortable truths about gender dynamics and societal pressures. The film explores self-worth, identity, and the internal struggles women face in a world that tries to define them.
What makes Sheryl unique is its refusal to be confined by genre. It’s thrilling, humorous, unapologetically dark, and confrontational, challenging the audience to reflect on societal norms. What happens when a woman of colour is both villain and victim, empowered and broken? Can we empathize with her even as she commits unspeakable acts?
At the heart of the film is Sheryl, whose raw journey from invisible and disconnected to powerful and in control is both terrifying and empowering. She evolves from “perfectly put-together to feral femme” (Dread Central)—a force to be reckoned with, making her a compelling character.
Sheryl is a feminist story that subverts typical gender dynamics in horror. It’s about breaking free from societal expectations and taking control of your own narrative—a freedom often denied to women in life and film.
Carlos Rosas’s cinematography challenges the typical dark indie horror aesthetic, using bold colours and a masterful balance of light and dark to elevate the film’s visual identity. Costume designer Stephanie Nguyen brought Sheryl to life, with clothing that evolves alongside her character, drawing inspiration from films like American Psycho and Lovecraft Country, as well as TikTok trends.
The fine balance of horror, humour, and social commentary is what I’m most proud of. Justin Best, our writer-director, brought this vision to life, keeping the audience engaged and sparking reflection long after the credits roll. Sheryl doesn’t just deliver adrenaline—it challenges us to question the world we live in.
At its core, Sheryl is about empowerment—reclaiming your story, identity, and power. Wrapped in blood, gore, and dark humour, it celebrates breaking free from societal expectations and finding strength in chaos. In just 72 minutes, it challenges the norm of 3+ hour films, offering something direct and refreshing.
I believe Sheryl has the potential to join the ranks of horror icons like Jason, Michael, and Freddy. She’s a new kind of legend, empowering fans with a fresh, fierce character to embody. Sheryl is a force ready to carve her own place in horror history.
Q. What do you hope people take away after watching the film?
A: What I hope people take away from Sheryl is this: We live in a world obsessed with perfection, forcing us into moulds that don’t reflect who we truly are. This world prioritizes surface-level ideals over our humanity, leaving us feeling inadequate, unseen, and disconnected. Sheryl directly confronts that obsession—it’s a wake-up call to the suffocating power of societal expectations and the pressure to conform to beauty standards that deepen our internal struggles.
As Dr. Renee Engeln wisely said, “Beauty sickness is a cultural problem.” Sheryl isn’t just a horror film—it’s an exploration of the emotional toll of trying to fit in and be “enough.” Through Sheryl’s journey, we hope to spark reflection on the cost of these societal norms and their damage to our sense of self.
Sheryl’s transformation—from “perfectly put-together to feral femme” (Dread Central) – is both terrifying and empowering. It’s not just about becoming feral; it’s about shedding layers of perfection, invisibility, and self-doubt. This rawness resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of society’s expectations.
As a producer and woman of colour, I’m proud of how Sheryl challenges stereotypes. She’s a woman of colour, navigating pressures often underrepresented in both horror and mainstream cinema. Sheryl isn’t a victim; she’s in control of her own story, seizing the reins in a world that constantly tries to erase or rewrite us. This film invites Hollywood and fans to embrace the possibilities for people of colour to be the
lead—on screen and in real life.
Ultimately, I want Sheryl to spark uncomfortable, emotional conversations, to bring up conversations and connect us. I want people to leave questioning: What am hiding behind? What part of me am I afraid to show? Sheryl challenges us to strip away the masks we’ve been forced to wear and embrace who we really are.
Through dark humour, chaos, and blood, Sheryl is about reclaiming power, identity, and space. It’s a journey of self-acceptance, reminding us we are enough exactly as we are—without the filters or facades. This film is for anyone who’s ever been told they’re not enough, struggled with societal expectations, or felt invisible.
Sheryl also embodies the spirit of indie filmmaking—starting with belief, crafting a great story, and bringing together passionate people to make the impossible possible. It’s proof that when you have a vision and the right team, new possibilities emerge and boundaries are pushed.
Let’s challenge the narrative. Let’s rewrite the rules. #TeamSheryl #Takeoffyourmask #standnakedinyourtruth #Sherylthemovie
Q. Do you have any other projects which you are currently working on?
A: I’m excited to share what’s brewing in the world of Sheryl and beyond. Justin and I have expanded Sheryl’s universe with a comic book series. The first issue is complete, diving into untold stories, new characters, and moments that didn’t make it into the film. With the same humour, heart, and chaos, the comic brings Sheryl to life in fresh ways. Expect more blood, chaos, and heart—issue one drops soon!
But that’s not all. I’m also wrapping up another Justin Best dark-comedy/horror script about two friends facing off against a group of young female vampires. It’s Mean Girls meets Lost Boys, full of supernatural twists, bloody mayhem, and a deeper story of friendship, survival, and personal rebirth. We’re finalizing the script, packaging, and talking to financiers. Who doesn’t love a good vampire story?
Whether it’s Sheryl, the vampire film, or another project, genre storytelling is where my heart lies. It’s the perfect space to blend the bizarre with emotional truths that connect us all. I love creating stories that balance darkness and light, horror and humour, offering catharsis in unexpected ways.
I’m also incredibly proud of Justin Best’s writing and the worlds he creates. It’s an honour to bring his stories to life as a producer. His worlds are filled with magic, mystery, and heart, and I’m grateful to help share that magic so others can experience the joy of his characters and stories.
As a producer, I’m committed to advocating for women, diversity, and inclusion. Representation matters, and I believe in amplifying underrepresented voices and perspectives. Cinema can break barriers, and I’m passionate about creating stories that reflect diverse experiences. Whether producing, acting in films, or singing on stage, you can also find me embodying musical theatre and appearing on your TV.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue telling stories that entertain, challenge expectations, and speak to the heart. Whether through dark comedies, supernatural thrillers, or quirky dramas, my goal is to deliver something with substance, humour, and heart. I’m grateful for the chance to share these stories—and the adventure is just beginning. Buckle up; it’s going to be an exciting ride!
Q. If some is looking to get into acting what advice would you give them.
A: If you’re considering acting, let me share this with you from the deepest part of my heart: start now, with whatever you have. There will never be a perfect moment, and there will always be reasons to hold back. The truth is, the best time to begin is now. I’ve been where you are—unsure, hesitant, and afraid to leap. I used to work as a genetics specialist, and I made the bold decision to tear up my certification, fully
committing to the pursuit of storytelling. I had no backup plan, no safety net—just my passion and belief in my dream. And let me tell you, there’s no second chance to live life. We have this one beautiful, fleeting opportunity to experience it, and we owe it to ourselves to go all in.
I know what it’s like to feel uncertain, to wonder if you’re on the right path. But let me tell you: you must start with what you have, even if it’s not perfect. Your journey will be messy, raw, and unpredictable. But that’s part of the magic. The path won’t always be smooth, but it will be yours, and every misstep, every laugh, every tear, and every triumph will shape your craft. You will grow through it all.
I’ve seen too many people close to me leave this world with their gifts still inside them, always waiting for “tomorrow”—but tomorrow never came. Don’t let that be your story. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Ask questions, take classes, immerse yourself in films, and most importantly, live your life. Every experience, every person you meet, every moment you embrace becomes part of your craft. Surround yourself with those who support and believe in you. Trust your instincts, try new things, keep pushing forward, and remember: there is no such thing as failure. Every step, every experience, is a lesson that propels you forward.
So, take that leap. You can live your dream. It’s not only possible—it’s waiting for you. Don’t let fear or doubt keep you from stepping into the fullness of who you are meant to be. Start now. This is your time.
WEBSITE: www.sherylthemovie.com
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/SherylTheMovie
IMDB: www.imdb.com/title/tt13117642
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/sherylthemovie
TWITTER: www.twitter.com/sherylthemovie
TIK TOK: www.tiktok.com/@sherylthemovie
LETTERBOXD: https://letterboxd.com/film/sheryl-2023/
SHERYL was showcased at the Romford Horror Festival on Screen 1 at 2:00 PM on Thursday, February 7th, 2025. We are thrilled to announce that SHERYL won the “Best Director” award for Feature Film, presented to Justin Best.
Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!
