Chris Quintos Cathcart’s journey from actress to executive producer is a testament to her unwavering commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices in the film industry. From her beginnings as an actress and writer, when she created roles for herself due to the scarcity of interesting roles for her “type,” to co-founding Unapologetic Projects, Cathcart has relentlessly pursued her vision of telling authentic, diverse stories. Her transition from writer to actress to executive producer reflects her deep commitment to reshaping the film landscape and ensuring that all audiences see themselves represented on screen.
In January 2023, Chris co-founded Unapologetic Projects with her business partner Tyler Boehm. Before that, Chris’ life was dominated by the performing arts. She began her career as an actress and thrived in the theater scene before moving on to writing roles for herself, driven by the scarcity of interesting roles for her “type.”
This foray into writing eventually led her to Los Angeles. But it was only after the birth of her second child that Chris decided she needed a profound change. “It was just a feeling of powerlessness,” she remembers.
Initially, Chris sought roles for herself by networking with Filipino-American filmmakers. Her network eventually led her to Tyler, who helped her find her first significant project with filmmaker Mallory Ortega. Chris provided the final funding for Ortega’s film, marking the beginning of their professional relationship.
Since its inception, Unapologetic Projects has produced two feature films and built a television division. Their mission is clear: they seek out underrepresented artists who tell authentic stories. “I’m still looking for that Filipino-American role,” admits Chris. “But while I’m looking, I’m doing other things from other communities.” Their film “DÍDI,” directed by Sean Wang, embodies their mission. The film won the US Dramatic Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival and marked a significant milestone for the company.
The search for “DÍDI” was a happy coincidence. An agent introduced them to the project and Tyler, who had extensive experience, recognized its potential. “He said he had never seen childhood treated in this way,” says Chris. “As an Asian-American, I had never seen this kind of portrayal either. It appealed to both of us.” They decided to produce the film and eventually sold it to Focus Features after its success at Sundance.
Unapologetic Projects’ latest film, “All That We Love,” premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. Directed by Yen Tan and starring Margaret Cho and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, the film portrays a realistic Asian-American family with relatable, everyday problems. “I love this film because it shows what feels like a real Asian-American family,” Chris explains. “They’re not perfect; they have their usual problems.”
Chris’ passion for storytelling extends beyond feature films. She is currently working on a documentary about Benny “The Jet” Urquidez, a legendary kickboxer from East LA. Produced by Fisher Stevens and Keanu Reeves and directed by Jennifer Tiexiera, the documentary will explore Benny’s life and career and highlight his influence on Hollywood fight choreography. “Keanu Reeves idolizes this man,” says Chris. “Benny is a defining figure in martial arts on screen.”
Building Unapologetic Projects has been an intense and rewarding journey for Chris. Although she didn’t rise through the traditional system as an executive, she finds her unique background as an actress and mother helpful. “I’m really looking for positive disruption,” she says. “We pay writers to pitch TV shows with us, which other people don’t do. I think there’s a lot of room for change.”
Chris’ parents are from Quezon City and immigrated to the United States in 1980, where they started a new life in Oceanside, San Diego. She herself has only been to the Philippines once, when she attended her grandfather’s funeral in 1987.
Despite the rare visits, there is a strong desire to return to the Philippines. A significant trip was planned for New Year 2021, but those plans were thwarted by COVID. However, the dream of returning remains, with hopes of another trip in the future. “I would love for a project to take me back there,” she says. “That would be my dream, then I would meet Filipinos in film and that would be great.” The idea of connecting with Filipino filmmakers and exploring the vibrant film scene in the Philippines is a cherished desire.
Chris’ commitment to diversity is evident in her dedication to telling underrepresented stories. One such project is the true crime story of Teresita Basa, a Filipino nurse who was murdered in Chicago in the 1970s. The case took a paranormal turn when Basa’s colleague Remy began exhibiting strange behavior and eventually provided police with clues that led to the killer’s arrest. Developed by Chris and directed by Maritte “Marty” Lee Go, this story promises to be a fascinating addition to the Unapologetic Projects portfolio.
Despite her busy schedule, Chris has a personal dream project. “I just want to find a Filipino 27 Dresses,” she says, referring to the romantic comedy. She talked about it with her partner Tyler and it became 27 First Cousins, a mix of her love of romantic comedies and her cultural heritage. “It took all my energy to start this venture, but one day I’ll start writing again and 27 First Cousins will be my first project.”
When Chris reflects on her career path, she recognizes the challenges and rewards of her role. “The worst thing about my job is that it’s all my fault,” she admits. “But the best thing is that I get to read all day. I grew up a bookworm and now I get to do that with a team of people.” Her job, she says, is like being part of a book club, where she can discuss and analyze material with her team.
For anyone who wants to follow in her footsteps, Chris has some advice: “There are two types of producers – those with money and those who do all the work. If you are detail-oriented and passionate about managing a project from start to finish, you can become a producer at any level.” She encourages young creatives to recognize the variety of jobs in storytelling beyond acting and directing.
Through Unapologetic Projects, she continues to champion diverse voices and create impactful films that resonate with underrepresented communities.
