Naya Biinstock and Lia Elalouf Open Up About Their Roles in "The Escape"
Actresses Naya Biinstock and Lia Elalouf discuss their roles in the drama series "The Escape," sharing insights on filming in a jungle set and portraying complex characters.
Naya Biinstock initially struggled to understand why her character, Feigy, chose to stay behind instead of fleeing with Yoel in the drama series "The Escape." However, as she explored the role deeper, she realized the character's courage runs much deeper than it first appeared.
Speaking in a joint interview with co-star Lia Elalouf on Keshet 12's "Galit and Ilanit," the actresses opened up about connecting with their roles and the intense experience of shooting abroad. "When I first read the script, I couldn't understand why she didn't run. I was angry at her," Biinstock admitted regarding Feigy's choice. She explained that because Feigy was born into the cult and knew no other life, her body simply froze in the decisive moment. Meanwhile, Yoel knew the outside world, whereas the unknown terrified Feigy.
For Elalouf, who plays May, the role struck a deeply personal chord. "I had just returned from three months in Paris when I auditioned. Roles often arrive just as you are going through a major life transition, and as an actress, I go through a journey alongside the character," Elalouf shared. She noted that she and May shared a similar sense of confusion and disorientation, adding that she felt immense compassion for her character throughout the process.
Preparing for Uncharted Roles
When asked about preparing for such a challenging part, Biinstock revealed she researched numerous investigations and testimonies about closed communities. "The funny part is that almost all testimonies are by men who fled the cult. I couldn't find a single testimony by a woman," she noted. That realization drove her performance, pushing her to give a voice to a woman whose perspective is rarely heard.
Addressing the challenge of avoiding judgment toward a character who gets cold feet, Biinstock emphasized that Feigy's courage must be viewed within the context of her upbringing. "She is very different from me, but she is actually very brave considering the world she grew up in. She manages to recognize that something is wrong without ever being taught that, and she finds immense strength through motherhood," the actress concluded.
Filming in the Jungle
Reflecting on the production experience, Biinstock described living closely with the cast and crew for a month. "We filmed the cult scenes in an actual jungle where a near life-sized village was built. We all stayed at a hotel on the edge of the jungle, and Lia joined us mid-shoot, acting like a refreshing breeze."
