Brec Bassinger is set to tread new ground in the horror-thriller genre with her latest project, The Man in the White Van. Known for her beginnings on Nickelodeon, where she starred in the supernatural sitcom The Haunted Hathaways and headed the comedy series Bella and the Bulldogs, Bassinger gained widespread recognition for her role as the lead in the DC television series Stargirl. This portrayal of the titular superhero further solidified her presence in pop culture, with appearances in both the Titans crossover event and the significant “Crisis on Infinite Earths”crossover within the Arrowverse.
In The Man in the White Van, Bassinger plays Margaret, an older sibling to Madison Wolfe’s character, Annie. As Annie approaches her 18th birthday, she aspires to embrace a more formal, ladylike persona, which inadvertently drives a wedge between the sisters. The tension escalates as Margaret’s romantic interests develop, and Annie’s alarming claims of a stalker in a white van grow increasingly urgent. Margaret must navigate the fine line between skepticism and support as her sister’s fears mount.
The film features a robust ensemble cast, including Skai Jackson of Sheroes, Gavin Warren from Night Swim, Noah Lomax, Addison Riecke, Ali Larter from Landman, and Sean Astin, known for his role in The Lord of the Rings; both Larter and Astin are also executive producers. Directed and co-written by Warren Skeels in his feature directorial debut, the film offers a chilling blend of horror-thriller elements with coming-of-age themes.
In anticipation of the movie’s release, ScreenRant conducted an interview with Bassinger, exploring her character’s complexity, her on-set chemistry with Wolfe, and how her own familial relationships influenced her portrayal. She also touched upon her collaboration with the costume department to create Margaret’s distinctive style.
Bassinger Utilized an Effective Acting Technique to Understand Margaret
“I know I’m biased, I also really love Margaret.”
ScreenRant: It’s a pleasure to speak with you, Brec. The Man in the White Van is a compelling film that holds your attention throughout. Margaret, despite being tough on Annie, also exhibits a softer side. How did you find the emotional core of such a complex character?
Brec Bassinger: I’m definitely biased, but I really love Margaret. As an actor, it’s crucial to understand your character’s motivations. No one believes they’re being mean; there’s always a reason behind their actions. I enjoyed uncovering her insecurities and the way her relationship with Annie fluctuated. Working with Madison, who is incredibly talented and a joy to be around, made it even more fun to explore this dynamic.
Considering their contrasting personalities, what do you think drives Margaret to conform to a more conservative, elegantly dressed persona compared to Annie’s rebellious spirit?
Brec Bassinger: That’s one of the beautiful aspects of family dynamics! Often, siblings mirror their parents in various ways. Margaret adheres closely to her mother’s ideals, while Annie resembles their father. Personally, I feel like I embody aspects of both my parents but leaned more toward Margaret’s side for this role. I had several insightful conversations with my mom, who grew up in the ’70s, which helped shape the sibling dynamics and their backgrounds.
Bassinger Drew Inspiration from Her Own Sibling Relationships for Margaret & Annie’s Dynamic
Giving “So Many Props”to Wolfe for Her Leading Performance
That sibling relationship is central to this film. Was there a particular scene that highlighted the bond you and Madison created in portraying that dynamic?
Brec Bassinger: Definitely! I have two older brothers, and our dynamic involves lots of playful bickering, yet I’d do anything for them. One memorable scene takes place in a bedroom where I’m arguing with Madison—who I affectionately refer to by her real name. I’m attempting to get her to put her phone away while she brings up the white van. The exchange was filled with snappy dialogue, which captured the essence of sibling rivalry, yet it was important to retain that underlying sisterly love.
As the film intensifies, the scenes become notably more dramatic and visceral for both you and Madison. How did shooting these intense moments differ from portraying the lighter, familial banter?
Brec Bassinger: I have to give massive credit to Madison for her amazing work throughout this film—she truly put in the effort, from her scenes with the horses to the climax where she faces some serious physical challenges. Watching her performance motivated me even more; if she was giving her all, I was determined to match that energy. Having such a devoted scene partner on set allowed for a great opportunity for growth, and I felt fortunate to share that experience with her.
Collaboration with Costume Designer to Define Margaret’s Unique Style
“Most of the clothes are properly 1970s vintage…”
You are no stranger to the significance of costumes in film, especially considering your previous roles. What was your experience collaborating with the costume department to establish Margaret’s style in this period piece?
Brec Bassinger: We had a fantastic costume designer named Tiger, and we collaborated extensively. Many of the outfits are genuine 1970s vintage, and for me, the wardrobe is a vital aspect of character development. Tiger did a remarkable job, and this contrast between Margaret’s outfits and Annie’s helped immerse me in character from the outset. It was genuinely enjoyable!
Overview of The Man in the White Van
The Man in the White Van is inspired by true events and reveals the unsettling undercurrents of life in a seemingly perfect 1975 Florida town. The narrative centers around young Annie Williams, a spirited girl whose tranquil world is shattered when she becomes the target of a predatory figure in a white van.
Annie’s idyllic experiences—ranging from horseback riding to her carefree walks home through wooded paths—are abruptly interrupted as the sinister van looms closer, leading to an escalating sense of panic. Under increasing doubt from her parents, Annie finds herself increasingly isolated, culminating in a terrifying encounter on Halloween night that transforms her worst anxieties into reality.
This film marks the directorial debut of Warren Skeels, offering a gripping investigation of fear, psychological tension, and the delicate nature of safety where darkness resides just beneath the surface. Based on real incidents connected to serial killer Billy Mansfield Jr., the story of Annie Williams evokes a nightmarish scenario that embodies the deepest fears of parents everywhere.
Watch the trailer here
Stay tuned for additional interviews regarding The Man in the White Van featuring:
- Madison Wolfe
- Skai Jackson & Gavin Warren
- Warren Skeels
The Man in the White Van is currently in theaters.
Source: ScreenRant Plus
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