Alisha Wainwright Dishes On Movie 'Palmer,' Co-Stars Justin Timberlake And Ryder Allen

KEY POINTS

Alisha Wainwright is happy to be a part of "Palmer" because it sends a "positive" message
Wainwright says she was drawn to the project because of the plot and how her character functioned in the story
She was impressed by Ryder Allen's confidence and Justin Timberlake's ability to become his character

Alisha Wainwright has opened up about her new film, "Palmer," and her experience working with Justin Timberlake and child actor Ryder Allen.

Wainwright, 31, expressed her excitement over being part of a project like "Palmer" that has an important message and story to tell.

"I'm just happy to be a part of anything that sends a positive message. Especially to children and people who don't typically get the spotlight in movies," she told Entertainment Tonight.

"Palmer" follows a former high school football star named Eddie Palmer (Timberlake), who returns to his small hometown after spending over a decade in prison. He becomes the caretaker of a young child named Sam (Allen), who is bullied by his classmates and even local adults. It tackles themes such as gender identity and bullying and shows how love and acceptance can be a powerful force in transforming the world and one's life.

"I would love a world where people can be themselves and not be shamed or ridiculed for it," Wainwright said, adding that children only bully others because of the "negative energy that's being instilled in them."

The "Shadowhunters" star explained that what drew her to the project was the story and the way her character, Maggie, functioned in the narrative. She is a grounding character who aids the two leads to be better individuals.

Wainwright also praised 8-year-old Allen for his confidence, revealing that she loves the way he was "unapologetically himself." She said she believes she can do a lot more if she could have at least a tenth of the young actor's confidence.

"He came in and was just like, 'This is what I'm doing, I'm here, how does everyone feel about it? OK, great.' It just charmed the pants off everybody," she said of Allen.

And while their young co-star said he had never heard of Timberlake growing up, Wainwright had nothing but praise for the former Nsync member and his performance.

"This guy is a mega star and he’s one of the most recognizable faces. I thought he was incredible in this movie," she said. "You’d be surprised how someone is in character. You can take away all the noise and just focus on what’s in front of you like, 'Let’s make a movie.’"

"Palmer" is now streaming on Apple TV+.