Talking With: Antoinette Abbamonte of “Since August”

This edition of Talking With focuses on actress Antoinette Abbamonte, who stars as a grieving deaf mother in the new dramatic film “Since August,” currently making its world premiere at Cinequest’s Cinejoy and Ashland film festivals.

From writer-director Diana Zuros, the film centers around a recovering addict who confronts her demons by spying on and then befriending a deaf mother grieving over her child. As their unusual bond deepens, the women reveal more about themselves than they anticipated.

Antoinette isn’t simply portraying a deaf woman -- she happens to be a deaf woman. But, this talented actress hasn’t let that slow her down. Her credits include HBO’s "Curb Your Enthusiasm," ABC Family’s "Switched At Birth," FOX’s "Raising Hope" and "The New Normal."

Antoinette has become an invaluable asset in the industry both on-screen and off. Assisting behind the scenes, she was a moderator on the feature film "Baby Driver" and ASL Director for "Turnover." As an advocate for artists of diversity, she has taught classes, participated in panels and even received the 2020 Assembly District 74 “Woman of Distinction” for her efforts to push the boundaries within the industry and beyond it.

To learn more, we are Talking With Antoinette Abbamonte about starring in “Since August” – okay, we’re not actually “talking” but she definitely has a lot of interesting things to say.

Why did you want to be a part of "Since August"?

ANTOINETTE: When I first saw the script and the role of a deaf character as with an authentic life story and not being victimized. The story is very powerful; that is what lead me to be part of it. I aim to participate only with well-written stories, with strong and powerful character sharing a message.

Where do you start when preparing for a role?

ANTOINETTE: Before the audition, I researched the role while learning the lines and found the story's beats. It is very important to work on the layers of character development without thinking about my deafness. I feel it’s less about being a deaf person and more about life lessons. It’s larger than a deaf theme; it’s about how Vedette navigates through some life changing challenges… this can be applicable to every person in the world.

Was there something specific that helped you bring Vedette to life?

ANTOINETTE: A big yes to that! I feel I was influenced to bring out the role of Vedette to be a blossom-like flower. It teaches others to accept the flaws of life and work through that mourning phase without feeling fear or getting trapped in a box of isolation and frustration. I love how she is vigilant in opening up to what life is offering, even while being dealt a heartbreak. It teaches me how to live life without complaining about it as well.

How was it working with director Diana Zuros?

ANTOINETTE: First of all, she is a very strong woman, and she had overcome many trials and tribulations within her own life. From the start she was so open work with someone of a different culture and language without hesitation; so professional and open-minded. I fell for her strength, and she reminds me of my mom, who is deaf as well. She overcame life of a deaf immigrant while raising my brother and I to be unwavering and compete within the bigger world. Two great leaders whom I love, especially for women!

What was your favorite moment from working on the film?

ANTOINETTE: On the set with everyone contributing, without any of us even checking the clock! Then realizing “OMG! Look at the time.” I enjoyed working with these women. They are very intense like me, working hard and smart. I become so engaged and committed when working with intelligent women developing our message to share with the world. (I love being an Actor!) What does it mean to forgive and love and share with others and move forward to live life?! One specific favorite moment is when Diana was working on her camera doing the close-up when I am very emotional without distraction, and it is so real. She understands the process of acting's well-being. I needed time to release the emotional moments… she knew and she waited for me to be in the moment.

What do you hope moviegoers will take away from watching the film?

ANTOINETTE: I hope they will not only be entertained and also take with them a little education about deaf culture and how much alike we all really are... we all need to find our path through the trauma of life and through the challenges of trust in relationships and connectedness to others. I hope they will also appreciate the authenticity of having a deaf character played by a deaf actor.

Why is this story important to tell right now?

ANTOINETTE: Anyone of us can improve on our ability to learn how to forgive others without dwelling on it. Once you forgive someone, then it’s you who can now move forward with your own life. Life has many layers so helps when we each keep breaking down our wall of fears to allow us to grow to a higher level of vitality.

Did you discover anything about yourself from working on this project?

ANTOINETTE: As I would develop in to the very painful life Vedette in the story I would frequently reflect and appreciate my blessings and learn how to use my strength to be a better Antoinette.

As an advocate in the industry, do you have any practical advice for hearing directors, producers and actors who might be working with a deaf actor?

ANTOINETTE: My advice is to teach hearing directors not to be afraid, to be upfront and truthful about their strategy and expectations from a deaf actor. I had directors who were worried to approach me about directing me on the set, like they would be a bad person if they criticized me or identified if I was off the mark with the character. I tell them not to be afraid to tell me what their vision is to modify my goals or objections within every scene. The Directors who took off the kit-gloves and allowed me the same advantages of hearing actors with candid feedback. I have no problem with this. I asked them to work along with my vision so we can be a team. It helped so much when they were okay about that. It allowed me to drive my business; I can move the plays.

You also produce projects. Are you working on something right now?

ANTOINETTE: I am working on a big project with Producer Warren Zide and other deaf woman Producers with my company, MSP (Mermaid Signature Production.) Having opportunities both in front and behind the camera for deaf women to work with top tier people in the industry so to get their feet wet and grow in the industry. And think what a blessing for Hollywood to have a view of life from yet another culture. I have more ideas of great stories for more films to share and the times, they are a changing!

Lastly, what inspires you creatively?

ANTOINETTE: When I work with brilliant people it inspires me to create more and feel from the environment. I enjoy running with my dog, Teal, every other day. It helps me to create rich stories for more movies to share with the world.

On top of this, I enjoy spending time with my family, such as cooking and camping. We feel it is important to find our reasons for sharing our confidence with others. Getting my creative juices flowing in life is very important to me. I hope others feel the same.

Keep up with Antoinette Abbamonte at: Twitter: @aabbamonte Instagram: @antoinetteabbamonte Facebook: /antoinetteabbamonte

For more about "Since August" visit: SinceAugustMovie.com