Actor Julie Benz (Dexter, Jawbreaker, Buffy) and Filmmaker Mike Zara Get 'Horrified'
February 20, 2026 · 1 hr 24 min
Why listen
A beloved TV actor and an indie filmmaker break down how Horrified got made against the odds.
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In this episode
- Behind-the-scenes stories from Buffy, Dexter, and Jawbreaker
- How independent films get financed outside the studio system
- What it takes to write, produce, and direct your own feature
- A candid conversation about building a career in Hollywood
About this episode
On this episode of On the Rocks, we welcome actor Julie Benz and fan girl out, chatting about her roles in Buffy, Dexter, Jawbreaker, and more. We also welcome filmmaker Mike Zara and chat about his latest film, Horrified, which he wrote, produced, and directed. Julie shares her experience starring in this all-star cast, and we do a deep dive into independent filmmaking and thinking outside the box when it comes to film financing. This is one of our favorite episodes! With co-host model and musician Steven Dehler, and your sassy host with the sassy most, Alexander Rodriguez. Raise a glass, it's On the Rocks!
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About On The Rocks: Where Celebrities & Cocktails Mix
TV & Radio Personality Alexander Rodriguez sips and chats with your favorite celebrities from TV, film, Broadway, music, reality TV and pop culture in this weekly, entertainment, no holds barred talk show. Academy Award, Emmy Award, Grammy Award, Tony Award, Golden Globe Award winners – he’s drank with them all!
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