Kayla Bohan Discusses Her Role in ‘From Embers’ and Working with Matthew Morrison

For such a young woman, Kayla Bohan is beginning to rack up quite the list of accolades. At 14 years old, she is garnering significant success as both an actress and a recording artist. Growing up in Los Angeles, Bohan first began generating attention at 7 when she starred in the critically acclaimed feature film KAYLA. Her performance in the film earned her the “Best Leading Actress” award at the WRPN Women’s International Film Festival. It also garnered her the “Best American Actress” award at the NVIFF Public Choice Awards and several “Best Child Actress” awards at various film festivals.

Bohan is back in the spotlight thanks to her role in the upcoming film From Embers. Due to be released soon, she has one of the leading roles alongside Glee star Matthew Morrison. The film follows the story of a widowed mother of an autistic son as she tries to piece her life together while uncovering what happened the night her husband was killed in a fire at a lab.

Bohan also put to good use her skills as a recording artist for From Embers. She wrote the film’s two theme songs, “Maybe This Is How Life Should Be” and “Panorama.” The former is performed by Glee star Heather Morris, while Bohan and Morrison perform the latter.

Bohan joins us today to discuss her acting career, her role in From Embers, writing music, and more.

What was your first project as an actress? Did anything about the process on your first set surprise you?

Kayla Bohan: “When I was 5, I filmed a few commercials. Among them were advertisements for electronic pens and other daily necessities. It’s fun to look back now and see some of the shots of me as a child. I think I was pretty good. At least I was willing to perform in front of the camera and I look like I’m enjoying myself. That was the beginning of my performing career when the seeds were planted, and now I am beginning to see the trees of those seeds bear fruit.

“I realize now the opportunity to perform then was one of greatest experiences in my life. It helped get me to where I am today. And who knows what tomorrow will bring? I have met some amazing people along the way and I feel extremely grateful.”

Kayla Bohan & Matthew Morrison, photo courtesy of Kayla Bohan

In 2021, you starred in the feature film Harper, which was submitted for the 94th Academy Awards and which earned you a “Best Actress” award at the 55th Houston International Film Festival. How did you prepare for your role in Harper and what did this award mean to you?

“I made Harper when I was 11. I was very moved by the story of my character. It was difficult at first, though. I realized I had to bring the character to life in my head before I could bring her to life in the film. I prepared for the role by staying in character and wearing the same tattered clothes she wore and wandering through the forest like Harper did. Even when my mother asked me to eat, I didn’t because Harper would have nothing to eat.

“The filming took more than a month. In addition to wearing tattered clothing, we lived in a remote location during the shoot and that kind of life was not at all like my home. By the time we finished filming, I felt very sad to leave Harper behind. It was like losing a friend or family member. My heart felt empty because I had felt so close to the character. It took me a while to become myself again after playing that role. My own inner growth was part of the challenge I had to overcome to play this role. But I did it.

“I learned a lot from Harper. She taught me to be strong, to never give up, and to always show kindness to other people. These are the most beautiful things in the world. The ‘Best Rising Star’ award meant a lot to me. It reminds me I still have a lot to learn. I’ve gained so much confidence with everything I do now. I’m happy Harper resonated with audiences. The positive impact it had on me has reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling.”

Kayla Bohan, photo courtesy of Kayla Bohan

What was it like playing Emmy and Tony-winning Glee star Matthew Morrison’s daughter in From Embers? Did you learn anything as an actor and singer from Morrison?

“The role I play in From Embers is one I am particularly proud of. It gave me an opportunity to collaborate with amazing actors, especially Matthew Morrison. He’s a very talented and intelligent actor. It was such a pleasure working with him. In this movie, I play his 13-year-old daughter.

“Matthew taught me personal connection and emotion are at the core of good performances. Establishing a genuine connection with the material helps create a deeper impact on the audience. Matthew is extremely generous and taught me so much. More and more I’m learning how to draw from personal experiences to infuse authenticity into the characters I play. I hope people will enjoy this film and that the characters and story will remain in people’s hearts and minds long after they leave the theatre.”

You wrote the two theme songs for From Embers, one of which you perform with Matthew Morrison. Can you tell us about your writing process when it comes to writing songs for a film?

“Yes, I wrote the song and lyrics to the song ‘Panorama’ before I met Matthew. After we met, we modified it together. It was a powerful collaboration and I think the song turned out beautifully. I feel the lyrics will make you yearn for a peaceful and beautiful life. Working on music for the film was the ultimate opportunity to take my passion for music to the next level.”

Kayla Bohan & Matthew Morrison, photo courtesy of Kayla Bohan

When did you begin writing music?

“I’ve always loved music. I wrote my first song when I was 7. It was called ‘LA 2 New York.’ It was about my longing to see my brother since he lived so far away. It’s also been played on major music platforms.”

Who inspires you most as a songwriter?

“Our home was always filled with music. Although my parents are not musicians, I felt fortunate to have the gift of music in my heart. Music has always been inside me. Inspiration can come from anywhere at any time. For me, music is the key that unlocks my soul. My hope is that my music will inspire others to find their way in life too.”

What are you most excited for people to see in From Embers?

“I am honoured to be a part of this film and to have played an important role. This movie tells the story of how the heroine and her son are confronted with sudden adversity, and how they choose to face it bravely together. There are hidden dangers. And they are forced to face hypocrisy and injustice. I hope people will appreciate the courage and compassion of the characters as they fight to overcome the obstacles against them.”

From Embers focuses on family. What are some of your favourite ways to connect with your own family?

“Family is my driving force. My mom is Asian. My dad is American. I am often influenced by both cultures. I hope I will always remember where I come from, what it means to be out there among different cultures, and what I can do to make this world a better place for everyone.”

Favourite actor/actress?

“Sophie Marceau and Kevin Hart.”

Favourite movie?

“Central Intelligence.”

Favourite book?

“Flowers for Algernon.”

What is one motto you live by?

“With hard work and courage, beautiful stories can be born at any time.”

Kayla Bohan & Matthew Morrison, photo courtesy of Kayla Bohan