devery jacobs

Looking for your new favorite thriller? Add The Lie to the top of your list! We talked to Devery Jacobs about behind the scenes moments, life in quarantine and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES photo by VITA COOPER

Tell us about The Lie! What is it about the

film that drew you in and made you want to be involved?

I didn’t know who was originally involved in the cast, but I knew I loved the script. I’m a sucker for thrillers, and Brittany was a character I’d never played before. I also really liked the writer/director Veena Sud’s direction while in the callback process. It was these things that initially drew me to this film, but when I learned who I’d be acting opposite of, I geeked out.

Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments from filming that you can share with us?

We shot most of the film on location in northern Ontario, and it was a cold winter. So cold, that when Peter did his stunt of having to run into the river looking after my character Brittany, when he emerged, his pants froze solid to his body. He had a wetsuit on underneath his clothes, but still — it’s not all glamorous behind the scenes!

What can you tell us about your role as Brittany?

Brittany is the best frenemy of Kayla (played by Joey King), and her comments always have a back-handed bite. Brittany may be an aspiring Instagram influencer, but deep down, she’s a sad, insecure girl who’s going through a lot at home with her single dad.

How would you describe the vibe on set?

Any lessons learned during your time filming? Just getting to act with such seasoned veterans had me taking notes. Everyone was so kind, generous in their performances and awesome to work with. They were all also dedicated people at work, doing their jobs.

When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind?

I would love to play an Indigenous superhero one day! I was a provincial champion in gymnastics, so I love doing my own stunts and playing roles that are super physical. Plus, I know how bad-ass Native women are, so I would love for the world to get a glimpse of that!

What has life in quarantine looked like for you recently?

As of recently, I’ve been back on set, shooting different projects, trying to keep as safe and healthy as possible. To keep busy while I’m quarantining at home though, I love to cook! I cook breakfast, lunch and dinner almost every night. I find it’s a meditative way to be creative, but in a way that doesn’t have to do with work. I’m a huge foodie.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned this year?

I’ve been in therapy regularly for the first time during the pandemic, and it’s been tremendously helpful in dealing with the anxieties of life, COVID-19, this erratic industry, and huge movements happening throughout Indigenous communities. I think my biggest lesson I’ve taken away from 2020 is to prioritize mental health above everything else.

Any special message for fans?

I just want to say niawenhkó:wa / thank you so much! I post a lot of information about Indigenous social and environmental justice on my social media, so I appreciate everyone turning an eye to these issues and for getting involved. I’m eternally grateful for all of your love and support.