This past summer, I represented Black Talent TV at two events focused on web series and was surrounded by so many talented individuals. From actors and actresses to creators of popular web series, I finally met a few people from some of Black Talent TV’s favorite projects and one of them was Cylla Senii at the Uhuru Now premiere event. Cylla greeted me with such joy and we instantly chatted about the upcoming season of her web series, Situationships.
For those who don’t know, Cylla is the creator, director, and star of Situationships, a “dramedy exposing the twists and turns of millennial dating…or rather lack thereof. The show highlights eight young people in New York City who find themselves ‘talking’ to people, dating people, having relations with people, but ultimately having no title with their partners. They aren’t in your traditional ‘relationship’ — they are actually in a ‘situationship.’” Besides Senii, season one of Situationships starred Tarion Taylor, Amylee Sanchez, Sean Martin, Nicolette Ellis, Jonathan Iglesias, Allison Frasca, and Korey Graham. After a great first season, Situationships is back for season two with a few new additions to the cast, new storylines, and some new romances in the works.
Recently, I got the chance to interview Cylla about Situationships, what fans can expect from season two, her dream role, what’s next for her, and more. Check out the interview below and watch season one of Situationships at Blavity.
1-Growing up, did you always know you wanted to pursue a career in entertainment?
Yes, I did actually! Ever since I was little, I always told my family how much I wanted to be an actor and a director. I loved watching television shows and movies, and I would often write some of my own stories or create little comic characters that I would draw myself. I’ve always been a creative and a story teller, and I’m happy that I’ve gotten the chance to pursue what I’m passionate about.
2-Since Situationships has comedy and some romance in it, what are your some of your favorite romantic comedies?
Some of my favorite romantic comedies include Hitch and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. I love those movies and probably know all of the words.
3-You created and star in Situationships. How did you come up with the project?
I came up with the idea about three years ago in New York. My friends and I kept sharing all of our dating stories, and one trend that we noticed about all of them was that we all seemed to not exactly know what was going on with the other partner or why everything was such a gray area when it came to dating. From talking to a lot of friends, it was clear that many of us had experienced situationships, and I thought this would be the perfect idea to create a show about since the concept is relatable to so many different people.
4-Are there any similarities between you and your character, Melody?
I think there are some similarities between myself and Melody. She’s a good friend; she enjoys her work and having fun with friends. I do think that she will put up with a lot more games when it comes to dating/relationships/situationships than I ever would. In Season two, she’s definitely having a lot more fun in the dating scene.
5-Situationships is back for season two THIS Fall. What can fans expect?
Fans can expect to watch something amazing. Season two is by far some of the best work from myself and my team, and I’m so excited for everyone to see! The storylines have all expanded, and we’ve got a lot of character development. The overall cinematography and level of production is phenomenal, and I’m so impressed by all of the amazing performances from our actors and all of the hard work that my entire crew put in to this season to make it something that we all can be very excited for.
6-How did your collaboration with Blavity & Situationships come about?
I connected with Blavity at an event where I was able to tell them about the show. I’m so glad that they enjoyed watching the content and thought that it would work for their platform. My team and I appreciate all of the support we’ve received from their entire team!
7-Out of all your projects, which has been your favorite to film? Why?
Well, of course I’ll have to say Situationships since that one is my baby. I love the entire process and appreciate every single person who has been a part of the journey. I also love every project that I’ve worked on because there’s always something new that I learn from practicing my craft. I really appreciate every opportunity I’m given.
8-What is your dream role?
Dream role? Oh gosh, I have a few. I would LOVE to be cast in Atlanta and Insecure first and foremost. Their content is so creative and fresh, that would be an honor to be a part of. I wish I could have made it on Game of Thrones. (I mean I could have been Missandei’s cousin or something, lol) Also, being a part of any production that Shonda Rhimes, Ava DuVernay, or Oprah touches would also be a major honor as well.
9-What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the acting/filmmaking business?
My advice would be for you to just go for it if that’s what you truly want. I think when you can become very clear on what exactly you want, and create a plan for that vision, anything is possible. I would also say that it’s important for you to start seeing yourself AS that thing. You ARE an actor, or you ARE a filmmaker—not aspiring. There is so much strength that can come from what your intentions are, and if you are clear that you want to be an actor or filmmaker, you will. Go for your dreams, and don’t be afraid to jump in!
10-What is NEXT for Cylla Senii?
So many things! I’m currently producing 5 web series and acting in several projects that will air in 2017 & 2018. It’s a really great time for original content creators, and I’m really excited for everyone to see these projects and follow our journey!
FOLLOW Cylla Senii on Twitter, FOLLOW her on Instagram, VISIT Situationships’ official website, FOLLOW the show on Twitter, LIKE the show on Facebook, and FOLLOW the show on Instagram.
Photo Credit: Cylla Senii/Situationships