Ryan Rydell is stepping onto the big screen. The local actor and creative professional is co-starring in the independent psychological thriller Strand 45, directed by MaryJo Carlson and led by actress Katelin Stack. The film marks Rydell’s first full-length feature film role and a significant milestone in his acting career.
Strand 45 is a character-driven thriller that explores isolation, emotional tension, and the unraveling of trust under pressure. The project is slated for limited distribution with anticipated streaming availability on Amazon Prime and Tubi.
For Rydell, the film represents years of quiet preparation meeting opportunities.
“I’ve always loved storytelling,” Rydell said. “But stepping into a feature film requires a different level of commitment and vulnerability. This role pushed me in ways I’ve never experienced before.”
While many in the region know Rydell as a local entrepreneur, community steward, and founder of RyCOM, his background also includes commercial acting, modeling, and media production. His previous on-camera credits include commercials for Mercedes-Benz, Dial Soap, WeatherTech, SkyDeck Chicago, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Masterlock and other regional commercial, short story, and print modeling campaigns.
With Strand 45, Rydell moves fully into narrative cinema.
Director MaryJo Carlson emphasized the film’s focus on performance. “This story lives and dies by the authenticity of its actors. Ryan brought a grounded presence and emotional depth that strengthened the dynamic at the core of the film.”
The production is an independent collaboration built on character, atmosphere, and tension rather than spectacle. The award winning Katelin Stack leads the cast, as the film centers on complex human relationships and psychological stakes.
For Rydell, the film’s themes surrounding cancer and resilience resonate on a deeply personal level. His mother and best friend previously battled cancer, an experience that permanently shaped how he understands strength, fear, and hope.
“When cancer touches your family, it changes how you see everything,” Rydell said. “There’s an intensity to those moments. Being part of a story that explores that kind of vulnerability meant more to me than I can explain.”
That personal connection adds emotional weight to Strand 45, a film that does not shy away from the raw realities of illness and the impact it has on relationships.
The official premiere of Strand 45 is scheduled for March 28th at Gorton Center – Lake Forest, IL. Tickets and event details can be found at: https://strand45.eventbrite.com or by visiting any of our social profiles or website
Rydell hopes the premiere will not only celebrate independent filmmaking, but also bring the community together around a story that reflects perseverance, humanity, and the quiet strength families show in their hardest seasons.
Additional streaming dates and trailer releases will be announced following the premiere.
About Strand 45 • A young woman with a painful past discovers her DNA holds the cure to cancer, instantly making her the most valuable secret on earth. As powerful interests close in, and her past haunts her, she must choose between her own safety and well-being, or risking everything to share her secret with the world.
Strand 45 is an independent psychological thriller directed by MaryJo Carlson and starring Katelin Stack, Ryan Rydell, and Rory Hamill. The film explores isolation, trust, and emotional volatility. Distribution details will be announced soon.
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Marketing Contact: Ryan Rydell, Phoenix Media Group • ryan@phoenixmedia.group • (815) 914.1766