Newcomer Arianna Rivas is tackling the film world head-on, with two huge movies coming out in 2025. While you may recognize her from her previous roles in projects such as The Harvest and Prom Dates, she now stars opposite Jason Statham in her first major feature film, A Working Man (in theaters now). Rivas plays Jenny Garcia in the action thriller, a teenage girl whose disappearance is the point around which the entire film’s plot spins. Her second picture of the year, Black Phone 2, will be released in mid-October: While not much has been disclosed about the film just yet, the actress hints about what audiences should expect upon viewing. Read on to see what she reveals, as well as to learn more about her time filming A Working Man.

**Left:**
Coat by Fleur du Mal
Shoes by Paris Texas
**Right:**
Look by Atelier Biser

A Working Man is your first major feature film. How did your experience filming differ from previous projects in which you’ve taken part, such as Prom Dates and The Harvest
This film felt like a true immersion. The role called for more than I’ve ever done before, physically and emotionally. The training, the intensity of the scenes, the depth of Jenny’s story—it all pushed me to grow.

You play Jenny, a teenage girl who has been kidnapped—AKA, every woman’s nightmare. How was it to tackle the emotionality of that incident and the film’s subsequent events?
It was heavy. I really wanted to bring truth to Jenny’s emotional life, so I had to find my way into her world. For me, it was the idea of what her parents would be experiencing—that heartbreak, that helplessness. Jenny carries so much emotional weight surrounding her family, and I wanted to honor that.

Is there anything you hope to represent for any young women watching?
Absolutely. I hope they see that strength can be quiet, resilience can be messy, and you can still be scared and powerful at the same time.

Jenny and Levon (Statham’s character) form quite the duo on screen. Did the two of you do anything to foster this dynamic prior to, or during, filming?
Jason and I didn’t spend too much time together since I was often “hanging out” with my kidnappers (Emmett and Eve) on set. But I learned a lot watching him in stunt training, the way he throws his punches, the intention behind his movements- he is a powerhouse!

Are there any memorable moments from your time filming A Working Man that come to mind?
There was a moment we were shooting a scene where Jenny runs into the street and has this deep breath of freedom. When we filmed that it was one of the first times I really felt myself soaking in what it is we’re doing here as a team. Creating art, living dreams… that breath of freedom felt real for me.

A Working Man isn’t your only movie releasing this year… Black Phone 2 comes out in mid-October. How does it feel to have suddenly booked two high-profile projects in a row?
It still feels surreal. I’m grateful, I’m learning, and I’m just doing my best to stay grounded in all of it.

Is there anything you can let us in on regarding the plot of Black Phone 2?
Without giving too much away—it’s darker, more emotional, but plays on some themes from the first film. I think audiences will be surprised!

How would you describe it in three words?
Tense. Haunting. Human.

Both films are quite intense and high-stakes. Is there something that draws you to these kinds of stories?
Definitely. I love stories that challenge both the character and the audience emotionally. I’m drawn to truth, even when it’s messy.

How do you unwind after an emotionally charged or draining day on set?
A long shower, a call to my Bestie or mom, and time in silence. Just letting myself come back to who I am outside the work.

What, besides acting, do you most enjoy spending your time doing?
I love walking my chihuahua named Diva, she’s my little homie. Aside from that, I love anything with animals and nature. Hiking, horseback riding, or just hanging out with good people who make me laugh- that’s my kind of day!

CREW CREDITS:
Talent: Arianna Rivas
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Producer: Alison Hernon
Photographer by Rowan Daly
Fashion Stylist: Amelia Levin-Sheffield at A-Frame Agency
Hair: Vincent Pelletier at A-Frame Agency
Makeup: Akina Shimizu at A-Frame Agency
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Logan Dutra, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine

Arianna Rivas, A Working Woman