After working in multiple film industries in India, actress Riya Sen has made her Hollywood film debut with Highway 905. Directed by Pawan Kumar Chouhan, it is a murder mystery that was filmed on location in Long Island, New York in early 2024. Highway 905 is currently available for streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime USA. In an exclusive chat with us, the Kolkata girl talked about the film, her role and more.

How did you land a role in Highway 905?

Riya Sen: I landed the role in Highway 905 through a beautiful stroke of serendipity. After seeing my previous work, the director (Pawan Kumar Chouhan) reached out, and I instantly connected with the script. It felt like the perfect opportunity to dive into a character with depth and complexity.

Were you actively searching for opportunities internationally?

Riya Sen: Yes, I’ve been working for a long time in the Indian film industry, and I was definitely looking to broaden my horizons, challenge myself and work internationally. I love American movies and when the opportunity for this role came up, I was excited to dive into a new arena because storytelling transcends boundaries.

Tell me about the character you play in the film. What about her appealed to you?

Riya Sen: In Highway 905, I play a character named Sophie, who has many layers that reveal her complexity. It’s a murder mystery, and what appealed to me was her resilience and depth, which I found both inspiring and relatable.

Did you have to speak in an American accent for the character?

Riya Sen: Yes. I worked very hard to perfect my American accent for this film. It was essential for me to ensure that my character resonated with the audience. I practised extensively with voice coaches and immersed myself in American culture and dialogue, which made a big difference in my performance!

Is there a memorable moment from the set that you can share?

Riya Sen: One of my favourite moments is from a scene where Idan Raz and I were filming a tense confrontation. The atmosphere was so charged that we actually fed off each other’s energy. Afterwards, we all burst out laughing because we were so into the moment. It was a great way to break the tension.

Do you wish to do more international films?

Riya Sen: Absolutely! I’m always eager to explore new opportunities and collaborate with diverse filmmakers from around the world. I believe that storytelling knows no borders, and working on international films would allow me to grow as an artist while reaching a broader audience.

What is your take on social media? Do you like to use it more often? Or is it only a professional tool for you?

Riya Sen: I view social media as a double-edged sword. While it’s a great platform to connect with fans and promote my work, I also appreciate taking breaks from it for my mental well-being. I try to maintain a healthy balance.

You have worked in different film industries in India. Which film industry have you enjoyed working in the most and why?

Riya Sen: Each industry has its charm, but I particularly enjoyed working in Bengali cinema. The storytelling is often rich and nuanced, allowing for deeper character exploration, which I truly cherish.

Your film Jhankar Beats completed 21 years. What are your memories of that film as you were starting as an actor?

Riya Sen: Jhankar Beats holds a special place in my heart. It was a fresh start for me, and working alongside such talented actors was a learning experience.

Do you think your career graph grew as you expected?

Riya Sen: I have grown in ways I could never have imagined. While there are always ups and downs, I embrace every experience as part of my journey. There were certain roles I missed out on, but I believe everything happens for a reason.

How do you look at your journey so far?

Riya Sen: I see my journey as a tapestry woven with challenges, learnings and beautiful moments. It’s been diverse and fulfilling, and I’m excited to see where it leads next.

What are your upcoming projects?

Riya Sen: I’m currently working on two scripts that I’m very excited about, but I can’t reveal much just yet.

What have you been watching and/or reading lately? Any recommendations?

Riya Sen: Lately, I’ve been diving into some classic novels and binge-watching a few captivating series. I recommend reading The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and watching The Crown for a fascinating glimpse into history.

Where will you be during Durga Puja?

Riya Sen: I’ll be with my family in Kolkata, attending a few puja pandals. It’s a cherished tradition that my grandmother deeply rooted in us, and I always look forward to celebrating it together.