Ep 248: From Ohio to Netflix: Maria Timonina’s Breakout in “Gringo Hunters”
Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien SwabyShow Notes
Episode Overview: In this masterclass episode of Filmmaking Conversations, host Damien Swaby sits down with Maria Timonina, the magnetic actress behind Alice Wells in Netflix’s international crime thriller, Gringo Hunters. This is not just a conversation about acting—it’s a blueprint for creative resilience, cultural identity, and the realities of breaking into the upper echelons of the film and television industry.About “Gringo Hunters”:
Gringo Hunters is Netflix’s latest high-stakes crime drama, produced by Ron Howard’s Imagine Entertainment and directed by Adrian Grunberg. Set against the backdrop of Mexico’s complex criminal underworld, the series follows a specialized task force dedicated to tracking down American fugitives south of the border. The show is lauded for its gritty realism, nuanced characters, and a narrative that weaves together family, justice, and survival. Maria Timonina’s portrayal of Alice Wells—a young woman caught in the crossfire of personal tragedy and international intrigue—has been singled out by critics as a breakout performance, bringing both vulnerability and strength to a role that anchors the emotional core of the series.In This Episode: The Making of Alice Wells: Maria offers an in-depth look at her process for embodying Alice Wells, a character whose journey is marked by trauma, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of justice. She discusses the emotional groundwork required to portray a survivor who channels her pain into advocacy, and how her own background as a first-generation Russian-American informed her performance. Behind the Scenes of a Netflix Juggernaut: Go inside the production of Gringo Hunters—from the audition process to working with director Adrian Grunberg and the creative team at Imagine Entertainment and Redrum. Maria shares what it’s like to collaborate with industry legends, the unique energy on set in Mexico City, and the high standards of storytelling and professionalism that define a global Netflix original. Navigating the New Hollywood: Maria and Damien discuss the seismic shifts in the industry, including the rise of self-taped auditions, the impact of streaming platforms on international storytelling, and the emergence of vertical micro-dramas. Maria provides actionable advice for actors and filmmakers on adapting to these changes, building a sustainable career, and finding your voice in a crowded marketplace. Craft, Community, and Career Longevity: The conversation delves into the importance of training, mentorship, and self-care. Maria opens up about her ongoing work with acting coach Brian Norris, the rituals she uses to decompress after intense scenes, and the value of celebrating every win—no matter how small. Representation, Diversity, and the Power of Story: Maria reflects on the significance of bringing authentic, multidimensional characters to the screen, the responsibility of representing survivors and marginalized voices, and her hopes for the future of inclusive storytelling in Hollywood. About Maria Timonina: Maria Timonina is a SAG-Eligible actress with a BFA in Acting from Boston University. Her work spans drama, comedy, and voiceover, with a growing reputation for roles that demand both emotional depth and technical precision. In Gringo Hunters, Maria’s performance as Alice Wells has established her as a talent to watch on the international stage.Connect with Maria Timonina: Website: www.mariatimonina.com Instagram: @maria_timonina X (Twitter): @Maria_Timonina IMDb: Maria Timonina Why You Should Listen: This episode is essential for anyone serious about the craft and business of filmmaking. Whether you’re an actor, director, producer, or passionate fan, you’ll gain rare insight into the making of a Netflix original, the realities of international production, and the mindset required to turn adversity into opportunity. Maria’s journey is a testament to the power of preparation, authenticity, and never giving up on your creative vision.Subscribe and
More from Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Mike Gallant and Seled Calderon join Damien Swaby to discuss BACKPAY, an independent neo-noir crime thriller about financial desperation, family and the consequences of believing one bad decision can fix everything.Written, directed and produced by Gallant, who also stars, the film follows Steve, a desperate father fighting to save his marriage. Alongside Murphy, a cop caught up in life as an informant, he attempts to extort a corrupt politician and crack a safe—with increasingly dangerous consequences.
Documentary filmmaker Luchina Fisher joins Damien Swaby to discuss the people and experiences that shaped her work.Growing up in a military family took Luchina from Texas to Germany and North Carolina. She reflects on how moving between places taught her to observe, adapt and connect with people.
Filmmaker Katie Cokinos joins Damien Swaby to reflect on a career shaped by independent cinema, personal vision and the determination required to get unconventional films made. Katie recounts beginning her career at the Southwest Alternate Media Project—better known as SWAMP—in Houston.
Rob Hollocks has spent more than two decades on both sides of the film business — helping major studios sell some of the biggest films in the world, while ultimately pursuing his ambition to write, direct and produce films of his own.