It may be a little brighter tonight with a new star in the sky. Say hello to Arizona-based movie star, Shaina Sandoval, who made her feature-film debut in the movie, “In Search of the American Dream,” released on January 26.

 

Originally from Texas, the 19-year old actor has made Arizona her home in a number of ways. Before “In Search of the American Dream,” Sandoval appeared in music videos, national commercials and print ads for major brands. She has been acting for nine years and is also dedicated to her hobbies, which include dance of all types—from ballet and tap to hip-hip and Folklorico. In the film, “In Search of the American Dream,” Sandoval stars as “Angelica,” an older sister to three younger siblings who fights to keep her family together after their parents are arrested as undocumented citizens. Because most of the cast was children, the filming process took longer than usual. “We worked onset for over a course of three years,” Sandoval says, “we did most of the filming on weekends because all of the children actors were still in school.” Her complex character also struggles with juvenile diabetes, shedding light on the importance of family support and the unfortunate circumstances of medical issues facing young individuals. Nevertheless, Sandoval considered the film a blessing, and it helped her in her personal life with her family. “The overall feel for the movie is the importance of family and after filming this movie,” Sandoval says, “it has opened my eyes in my life, that I will never take one moment of being with my family for granted.”

As far as the future goes for Shaina, the sky is the limit as she continues her search for bringing truth through her acting. “I am definitely going to continue my acting career. I am continuing acting classes and numerous auditions right now. I have been offered a role in another film, so we will see what the future holds.”

For more information about the film and actor, visit www.insearchoftheamericandream.com and www.ShainaSandoval.com.