In a warm and honest conversation moderated by Swati Chopra from The Quint, the cast of Deep Cover—Bryce Dallas Howard, Orlando Bloom, and Nick Mohammed—opened up about the highs and lows of acting, rejection, friendship on set, and how representation in the film industry is (finally) evolving.
At the heart of Deep Cover is Orlando’s character; a struggling actor trying to find a role that truly fits. It’s a story that hits close to home for many performers. As Bryce aptly puts it, “With acting, it’s personal. When you’re rejected, it feels like you were rejected. Like, how did I not deliver?” That emotional truth is central to both the film and the conversation.
The cast also talked about what it was like working together. The boys were all praises for Bryce, especially for how she treated the crew. Nick Mohammed recalled her during late-night shoots, laying down gravel herself so the path was safer. “She’s just pure joy… super considerate of everybody on set,” they said. It’s clear that kindness and professionalism held this team together.
But the discussion didn’t stop at behind-the-scenes stories. They also spoke about how the industry is slowly changing. “The scene is definitely changing. Earlier there was only a certain set path through which new people could enter, but now the younger people are doing so many different things,” admitted Bloom. “They are writing, directing, acting, casting, they are everywhere.” Nick Mohammed went on to share how the kinds of roles he’s offered are finally shifting: “Even five years ago, I’d only be considered for characters named 'Abdul' or 'Rafique'. Now it’s Hugh, Nathan, Joseph as well.” It’s progress, but not the finish line. “Offscreen representation is still a bigger problem than on screen,” he added.
Bryce echoed that point, saying, “You don’t know what you don’t know. But if you’re working on a film set, it’s your job to make sure everyone is treated with respect.”
Deep Cover isn’t just a story about acting. It’s a reflection of a changing industry, one where inclusion isn’t just talked about but acted on. Where actors aren’t waiting for permission to belong. They’re claiming their space, together.