EASTERN EUROPEAN ENIGMA WITH A DANGEROUS MIND AND AN ETHICAL HEART
From a remarkable start as a competitive and award-winning rhythmic gymnast in Ukraine at the age of 5, Zhuzha's trajectory has been nothing short of spectacular, weaving a narrative of grace, determination, and triumph that extends far beyond the gymnastics mat.
Transitioning from the world of competitive sport, ZhuZha ventured into acting during her teenage years, joining a local theater company in her hometown. Her early exposure to discipline in gymnastics seamlessly translated into her pursuit of the arts. At eighteen, she earned an Artists' Cultural Exchange Scholarship, propelling her to the United States for college. Although acting wasn't initially on the academic agenda, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Business and Marketing before reconnecting with her creative passion.
During her time in New York City, ZhuZha attended the American Academy of the Dramatic Arts as well as other reputable acting studios. She has appeared in numerous award-winning short and feature independent films. In addition to film, Zhuzha has also acted in theater productions and showcases, including Shooting Stars, Dining Room, The Dancers, Where's My Money?
Ever the creative spirit, ZhuZha’s involvement in the film industry goes beyond acting. She successfully produced and starred in the pilot of the web series Baker Enterprises and the action short Ekaterina, which was featured at the Urban Action Showcase Cinema channel as a part of Sheroes in Action Cinema Short Film Showcase.
One of ZhuZha's recent projects includes a starring role in the highly charged action thriller BRING HIM BACK DEAD, alongside Daniel Baldwin, Louis Mandylor, and Gary Daniels, where she portrays a fierce, violent but fair ex-military operative turned mercenary. The film is now available on Amazon Prime.
With her latest project, the short thriller Klara's Box, ZhuZha took on the roles of co-writer, producer, and lead actress, showcasing her enormous passion to storytelling on both sides of the camera. Klara's Box follows the journey of a down-on-her-luck and grief-stricken young woman who receives an unexpected business opportunity from a family friend. Little does she know that this seemingly innocuous opportunity will lead her down a dark path, unraveling the mystery behind her father's recent murder. ZhuZha brings her trademark Eastern European intensity and emotional depth to the role of this complex character, creating a gripping narrative that explores themes of loss, resilience, and the pursuit of truth. Currently in post-production, Klara's Box is set to make its debut on the film festival circuit in early 2024.
ZhuZha's professional career spans beyond acting, writing, and producing, unveiling her inquisitive spirit and intellectually curious nature. Beyond her creative endeavors, she has always had a keen interest in academics which has led her to attaining a Master of Science Degree in Management and Leadership.
She typically gets cast as enigmatic women with a dangerous mind and an ethical heart. She currently resides in Los Angeles.
TESTIMONIALS
"Throughout my entertainment career which expands over 3 decades I've seen plenty of talented individuals but what is rarely seen is the ability to unify both Talent and Work Ethic as demonstrated by Zhuzha Akova. Zhuzha is committed 100 percent to the process and production of transforming the written vision into a transcending cinematic experience that demands your attention every moment that she is on the screen. Working with Zhuzha has been refreshing and inspiring!"
Demetrius Angelo - Founder of ASC Productions and the Urban Action Showcase
"Working with such a determined and talented actor as Zhuzha Akova on her Baker Enterprise venture was a delight. There is an element of intrigue and a depth of compassion that infuses all that she endeavors. Brains, beauty, and a sense of humor combine to make one terrific actor, writer, and producer."
Award-Winning Actress Maggie Reed
"Zhuzha is fierce. A strong actress with spot on instincts, she is also a gifted writer and storyteller."
Producer Molly Pearson / Partial Comfort Productions, Table Ten Films
"Zhuzha sparkles on camera. She is as honest in a scene as she is to talk with. Her work is intriguing and beguiling without a trace of pretense - a rare gift. She doesn't blink at hard work which makes her a pleasure to work with on set."
Director Hugh Scully / Mylo Productions
"If there is one word to describe Zhuzha it would be determination. She has brought professionalism and keen sense of purpose to her work. With each breakthrough, she finds new emotional truths and understanding which will serve her well on the set and stage."
Larry Gleason / Acting Coach, On Faculty At Circle In The Square