In an era where entertainment is a constant stream of flashy visuals and fast-paced narratives, Alexis Molnar, a passionate entertainer, reminds us of the deeper essence of art. Through a candid conversation, we delve into the driving forces behind Alex’s career, her inspirations, and the profound connection she seeks with humanity through her work.

When asked what drives her as an entertainer, Alex’s response is both humble and profound. “I think it’s a desperate need for attention. No, totally not,” she jokes, before revealing a deeper truth. “I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and connecting with people. As a shy person, I’ve found that art gives me the vocabulary to express myself.” Alex’s journey is fueled by a desire to contribute to the zeitgeist, to be a part of the ongoing cultural narrative.

Alex’s fascination with the world of performance began at a young age. Growing up in the tri-state area, she was fortunate to have access to local theater and concerts. Despite being corporate professionals, her parents recognized her spark and nurtured her love for the arts. “I just wanted to play pretend and be a part of it,” she recalls. This early exposure to the magic of performance set the stage for her future career.

Alex’s artistic tastes are wide-ranging and eclectic, reflecting her deep appreciation for storytelling in all its forms. When asked about her favorite movie, TV show, or stage production, she struggles to narrow it down. “This is a horrible question for a person like me,” she laughs. However, she eventually lists “The Piano Teacher” by Michael Haneke and “Nashville” by Robert Altman as her top movie picks. For TV shows, she mentions “Shrill” by Aidy Bryant and “Somebody Somewhere” by Bridget Everett. On stage, the play “Significant Other” by Joshua Harmon and the musical “A Chorus Line” hold special places in her heart.

What unites these diverse choices is their ability to draw audiences into their worlds and make them think and feel deeply. Alex articulates this beautifully: “Humanity encompasses so many different aspects, nuances, and gray areas that often become streamlined and lost.”  I love art that makes you rearrange your process of thinking, that makes you more magnanimous as a person.”

Alex’s willingness to explore complex, often dark characters is a testament to her commitment to authenticity. In her upcoming role in the Netflix series “Eric,” she plays Raya, a character struggling with severe addiction and homelessness in 1980s Manhattan. “I wanted to do this role respectfully,” she emphasizes. To prepare, Alex immersed herself in documentaries and consulted with addiction specialists. Her goal was to portray Raya’s struggles in a non-stereotypical, deeply human way.

Through Raya, Alex taps into the universal themes of desperation and survival. “It’s all out of necessity, survival, and just saving her ass at the end of the day,” she explains. This raw, unfiltered approach allows her to connect with audiences on a profound level, challenging them to confront their own perceptions and biases.

Looking ahead, Alex is excited about the potential for more unconventional, “weird” art to gain mainstream visibility. She dreams of a world where unique, offbeat projects like “Napoleon Dynamite” can thrive and resonate with diverse audiences. “I would love to make more weird art and have the accessibility to finance my friends’ projects,” she says.

Photography Credit: Sylvie Rosokoff