Acclaimed actress Dawn Olivieri shines in the post-apocalyptic thriller Homestead, where she portrays Jenna, a woman grappling with survival, faith, and the complexities of human connection. During a press day interview, Olivieri opened up about her character’s pivotal role, the challenges of filming, and the deeper themes that resonate throughout the film.
Why Jenna Is the Heart of Homestead
When asked what drew her to the role, Dawn emphasized the layered portrayal of survival and morality in the story.
“Jenna is written to be the heart of the homestead,” she said. “She juxtaposes the masculine themes of survival—arming up, being strong, and using force—with love, compassion, and faith. These qualities may seem intangible, but they have an undeniable impact in this story.”
Olivieri added that she’s long been drawn to post-apocalyptic narratives, not just for their suspense but for their ability to explore human resilience.
“What’s cool about Homestead is that it’s almost like a how-to guide for survival,” she explained. “It’s filled with practical solutions for real-world problems in an apocalyptic scenario—how to sprout potatoes, run generators, and make bread. It’s survival, but rooted in realism.”
The Challenge of Leading With Faith
Jenna’s reliance on faith and compassion creates moments of tension and beauty in the film. Olivieri revealed that these themes align with her personal beliefs.
“When you remove fear and judgment and lead with love, that’s when miracles happen,” she said. “This story shows that even in chaos, choosing your heart over fear can lead to profound outcomes. That’s what makes Jenna’s journey so powerful—she makes choices without knowing the next step, trusting her heart to guide her.”
A Scene That Stands Out
For Olivieri, one emotionally significant scene embodies Jenna’s faith and determination.
“There’s a moment when Jenna makes a choice that defies all logic and reason,” she shared. “As she stands and sees the results of that choice, it’s like a floodgate of warmth and goodness washes over her. It’s a beautiful metaphor for what happens when you follow your heart, even in the face of uncertainty.”
The Universal Appeal of Post-Apocalyptic Stories
Olivieri believes the film taps into humanity’s fascination with survival stories, especially those that blend intensity with hope.
“Whether it’s zombies or some other disaster, these stories ask us to imagine how we’d survive,” she said. “And let’s be honest—most people think they’d make it. Homestead offers a glimpse into what survival could look like, while reminding us of the strength in compassion and community.”
Describing Homestead in Three Words
When asked to sum up the movie in three words, Dawn smiled and paused before offering, “Intensity plus goodness.”