We had the pleasure of speaking with the remarkable Lisa K. Crosato—an award-winning actor, screenwriter, and the creative force behind the globally acclaimed City of Angels Film Festival. From powerful film roles to championing diverse voices in cinema, Lisa continues to make her mark in the industry with purpose and passion.
Q: What do you look for in a role, and how do you choose your projects?
A: I look for projects that are unique and interesting to me personally, but also have a universal appeal. I always enjoy playing strong female characters that are multi-dimensional. I like comedy, but I also enjoy dramatic stories—especially ones about characters overcoming obstacles and transforming throughout the course of the story.
Q: As an award-winning screenwriter, what stories are you most passionate about telling?
A: The stories I’m most passionate about are usually rooted in truth. I’ve written an award-winning screenplay about female serial killer Sheila LaBarre, based on the true events involving the murders of two young men who were her boyfriends. We’ve attached an A-list production team and are beginning to cast key roles, including Sheila. I’ll be playing her sister, Lynn. I’m also working on a new script based on a well-known female media figure.
Q: How has the City of Angels Film Festival impacted female filmmakers since its launch?
A: As the founder and creative director of the City of Angels Film Festival in LA, it’s been amazing to watch it flourish. Filmmakers from all over the world now join us, and we’ve created a space that really amplifies female voices. We’re proud of our curation of diverse stories by both women and men. The festival has about 150 five-star reviews, putting us in the top 1% of best-reviewed festivals globally. With our new offices in London and Cannes—and a special event planned in Cannes this year—we’re expanding our reach even further.
Q: You’ve worked with industry legends—what’s the best advice you’ve received?
A: I’ve learned that being authentically yourself is key. Confidence is essential in this industry. Some of the most successful filmmakers and actors I’ve met are also the most humble and down-to-earth. They forge their own path and don’t rely too heavily on outside validation. Believing in yourself isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely vital for a creative life.
Q: What has been your most transformative role as an actor?
A: Without giving too much away, I’d say my most transformative role is the one I’m preparing to shoot this November—a thriller called MOONSEED. It’s a dark tale about survival and confronting the past. It’s raw and challenging, and I’m really looking forward to diving into it.
Q: Can you share details about your upcoming projects?
A: In addition to MOONSEED, I’m starring in BROKEN BROTHERS, a film about military veterans trying to survive a brutal winter and the trauma of war. I’m also collaborating with veteran actor/director Cylk Cozart in Tennessee, and I’ll be playing Sydney in THE EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, a thriller about an actress who kills off her competition on set. There’s a lot happening, and I’m excited about all of it.
Q: What are your biggest goals for the future, both as an actor, filmmaker, and for your festival?
A: My goal is to keep working on strong projects that both entertain and impact audiences. With the City of Angels Film Festival, I want to continue building a global artistic community where creatives support and collaborate with one another. I’m also planning to incorporate sports-themed films into the festival—highlighting the similarities between artists and athletes, both of whom require skill, dedication, and heart.
Follow Lisa K. Crosato’s journey on Instagram @lisakcrosato
Stay connected with the festival: @cityofangelsfilmfestival | www.cityofangelsfilmfestival.com
Lisa K. Crosato continues to redefine what it means to be a modern creative—fearless, focused, and fiercely authentic.
