Playing Ellie in supernatural horror film Evil Dead Rise—the fifth installment in the iconic Evil Dead series—Alyssa Sutherland is gearing up for a big weekend. In between the release of her film, the Australian actress and model (who you may recognize from her role as Queen Aslaug on History’s Vikings) chatted with us to talk all things beauty, sunscreen and leave-in hair products.
You’ve had a lot of different roles. Are there any glam moments that really stick out to you for a particular character?
The outfit Aslaug on Vikings wore in her death scene was pretty glam! I wanted her to look powerful and like she cared very much about the trappings of wealth and I think Joan Bergin really captured that.
Are there any out-there beauty “tricks” you learned from modeling?
I think I’d have to say to not listen to anyone’s criticism on how you look. I constantly heard from agents, stylists and photographers what was “wrong” with my body—so I feel like it’s a great act of rebellion to not care. That might not be exactly what you were going for, but I think if you appreciate your physical body and have gratitude for being alive that will radiate and ultimately, it’s a happier existence!
You’re known for your red hair. Any products you love for taking care of it?
My hair colorist, Stacey Tabarez, introduced me to Kevin Murphy’s Young Again leave-in treatment oil ($49). My hair is on the dry side and soaks it up!
Can you share the “glam” steps for getting into character for Evil Dead?
First, I got an intricately detailed and red-tinged body paint job so that I looked like I’d been scalded all over. Then, it was individual prosthetics applied to my face to portray pieces of rotting or injured flesh, followed by a good dose of blood and pus in and around the prosthetics. And a big flick of blood from a paintbrush to top it all off!
Are there any Australian beauty products you swear by?
Aside from the Kevin Murphy product I mentioned, I’d have to say Aussies are very sun-smart, and I grew up using sunscreen diligently. It’s probably the best beauty product in your arsenal! It’s not Australian, but I really like Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint ($48).
