Let me introduce Christophe Zajac-Denek, an American actor who is creating waves in the film industry. You may recognize him from his latest performance in Sasquatch Sunset (2024), but he has previously been in films such as The Get-Lost Loser (2022), Fresh Off the Boat (2016), Trust in Love (2024), and many more. What distinguishes Christophe is his remarkable capacity to accomplish excellence despite his little stature. Standing at only 4 feet 4 inches, he bravely takes on difficult stunt job. It was a joy to speak with him about his role in Sasquatch Sunset, his latest film.

Within the misty woodlands of North America, a clan of sasquatches, maybe the only surviving members of their strange species, embark on a ridiculous and epic trip packed with humor and eventually touching moments. These gorgeous and wild creatures fight valiantly for survival as they navigate a rapidly changing world that continuously threatens their existence.

“I play a child in the movie. I think the movie is a beautiful concept. I love the practicality of the prosthetics. I think it’s cool that it’s not a digital painting on our faces. It’s prosthetics that are painted and costumes that are handmade. Also, with the beautiful setting in the redwoods in the North West, it’s just a beautiful thing to look at,” said Denek.

Christophe noted that it takes two hours per day to prepare for the part, which has its own set of challenges. Denek elaborated, saying, “We spend two hours in makeup every morning, having prosthetics done to our faces. The costumes are especially restrictive due to their weight.”

Christophe has become accustomed to wearing many outfits over his career. He has spent a large amount of his life portraying characters in foam and creature costumes, which has become a staple of his business. “That’s something I’m quite familiar with,” remarked Denek.

Sasquatch Sunset is a compelling video about four primordial creatures adjusting to modern life and beginning on an adventure quest to discover their foreign surroundings. Throughout the film, certain scenes will make you laugh, while others will elicit strong emotions and bring tears to your eyes. Christophe provides useful information about the film, giving glimpses into its essence without disclosing the complete plot.

“From an early age, I have always been obsessed with bigfoot.” The directors’ thoughts wandered to what the sasquatches were doing aside from strolling through the woods. The film’s slogan reads “A Year in the Life of a Sasquatch Family.” “Which I think is really informative because it leaves it open for everything you could or could not imagine with their relationships with one another, with communication, the way they get food, and the way they deal with death and tragedy,” Denek went on to say.

The film “Sasquatch Sunset” examines the similarities between these species and humans, emphasizing the characteristics they share. “Do they laugh, weep, or become annoyed like people? Are they intelligent or dumb? That’s what David and Nathan intended to explore with this film; it can also be interpreted as a statement on us as humans dealing with all areas of life,” Denek explained.

Christophe possesses a hidden ability for being an amazing surfer, which may surprise many. During his free time, he relaxes and clears his thoughts by riding the ocean waves. “Sasquatch Sunset,” debuted on April 12, 2024 and is available in theaters nationwide for your viewing pleasure. 

Photography Credit: Amanda Ramon