In this profile series, Revry is highlighting authentic contributors to the LGBTQ media and entertainment community. We ask questions to find out who they are and where they are going in the future. The questions remain the same but the answers tell their unique story. It’s time to explore and celebrate true representation beyond the limits of Hollywood.

As an actor, Margarita (Mars) Zhitnikova is known for their body of work in the New York indie film world and from film festivals around the country. They play dynamic and believable characters, breaking societal norms and creating representation along the way. Born in Stalingrad and fluent in Russian, Mars came to America with their family as Jewish refugees when they were six, settling in Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, New York. It was hard for Mars to get used to a new country, a new language and a new culture. They found comfort and acceptance while taking an acting class. It wasn’t long before a safe place became a second home. Zhitnikova’s acting credits include leading roles in the short films APPETITE, JONES, 2 WEEKS, TEAMWORK LIKE WOLVES, and the feature, TRIPLE THREAT from Besties Make Movies, Mars’ production company. Currently, Mars is working on the audio comedy THE REGISTER, and ZASHA, an award-winning short horror film about veganism and cannibalism. The script is being developed into feature length format, with Mars attached as the lead.

What are you best known for?

I'm known for my love of playing dark characters that highlight taboo topics. Upon seeing one of my short films, a director friend once said to me, "whenever I see one of your projects, I know I'm going to see a raw and honest portrayal of the character." I'm also a chameleon, known for people not recognizing me after seeing my work. It has made for some hilarious exchanges.

What is the first thing you acted in?

One of the first things I acted in was a graphic novel called BRIELLE AND THE HORROR from Loaded Barrel Studios. We also filmed a trailer for it. The first time I dabbled in wearing multiple hats was with the series SLICE written by Daniel Ferry where I got to play a serial killer.

What are you working on that no one knows about yet?

I just played a very fun role in the upcoming series MASHED directed by Stacey Maltin, recorded an audio comedy called The Register with writer/director Jody Lauren Miller and I'm co-writing ZASHA, a horror feature film with Jeffrey Weber based on our award-winning short film script.