In NEON’s Shelby Oaks, Camille Sullivan gives an unforgettable performance as Mia Brennan, a woman drawn into a chilling mystery while searching for her missing sister. The supernatural thriller, which premieres this week, marks another standout role for the Canadian actress known for her intensity and emotional depth.
As Sullivan herself has said, even when she’s not shining in character-driven dramas or psychological thrillers, she’s also a bit of an SPF and sensitive skin care enthusiast. Read our exclusive interview with her ahead.
What are you most excited for viewers to see when Shelby Oaks premieres?
“Shelby Oaks is a very suspenseful movie, full of twists and turns, and danger lurking around every corner. The few times I’ve seen it with an audience, there was a pin-drop silence, followed by an audible gasp. I’m excited to share that roller-coaster experience – the terror and the fun.”
What did you enjoy most about working on this project?
“The team at Shelby Oaks loves movies, so working on this felt like a passion project. Even on a grueling day, the energy on set was positive and supportive. One day, Aaron B. Koontz of Paper Street Pictures brought in a petting zoo to boost morale, and that’s exactly what happened.”
Can you share the beauty and charming moments of BTS during filming?
“There’s a scene in the movie where there’s a noticeable splatter of blood on my face. We had to shoot this section over two days, so Lydia, one of our amazing make-up artists, Kane had to recreate this explosive and intricate blood splatter, which was no easy task, and she did an incredible job, and it was very impressive.
I’d love to hear about any beauty products you’re particularly into right now.
“I love the brand ILIA Beauty. It’s a clean skincare brand from British Columbia, Canada, where I live. The Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 is amazing. I love sunscreen so I wear it every day and it makes my skin look beautiful and glowing. I pair it with the ILIA Bright Start Eye Cream and it’s perfect.”
How has your approach to skincare and beauty evolved over the years?
“I take a natural, chemical-free approach to skin care. A few years ago, I developed a hypersensitivity to chemical products, or perioral dermatitis. I don’t know what triggered it, but I was exposed to a long list of chemicals commonly found in cosmetics and beauty products. So I suddenly had a rash, so I had to throw away almost everything I was using. But then I found a great natural product that makes my daily routine simple and affordable. It’s magic. I also use it as a base under things like prosthetics and blood to protect my skin. There are so many amazing natural products out there.”
Is there any beauty philosophy or advice that has stayed with you throughout your career?
“Sunshade and sunscreen. When I was a teenager, we would often lie in the sun in the summer, and I noticed that my mom was always sitting in the shade with a big hat on. I don’t remember if we ever talked about it specifically, but I made a note of it anyway. She has great skin. So at some point in my twenties, I decided my mom had a good idea and started taking my sunscreen regimen seriously. I’m so glad I did.”
The beauty world is moving toward authenticity. How has it affected you personally and professionally?
“I believe that beauty, like clothing, should be a form of self-expression and self-care. If it makes you feel good, if it makes you feel like the best, most authentic version of yourself, then go for it. The most beautiful things in film are often unconventional and unique characters.”
