Talent Spotlight: Mark Sodukh Wins Best Actor for Breakthrough Performance in The Man Upstairs

At this year’s Panic Fest, young actor Mark Sodukh earned the Best Actor (Long Form Short) award for his emotionally layered performance in The Man Upstairs — a role that is already positioning him as one of the most promising young actors to watch.

Mark Sodukh as Julian in The Man Upstairs

In the film, Mark plays Julian, a kidnapped boy navigating fear, survival, and the psychological complexity of Stockholm syndrome while trying to protect another child trapped alongside him. The role demanded far more than a standard dramatic performance. Julian’s journey required vulnerability, intelligence, courage, and emotional restraint, all balanced with the instinctive fear of a child fighting for freedom.

According to the festival’s recognition of the performance, “The role of a kidnapped child who struggles with Stockholm syndrome is layered and difficult, but Mark was able to bring forth such nuanced performance at such a young age.”

For Mark, the character became one of the most meaningful experiences of his career so far. “Julian was brave and always trying to help his friend no matter how scared he was..It was exciting for Mark to play someone who had to be strong, clever, and emotional all at the same time.”

Behind The Scenes Moments

Throughout filming, the young actor immersed himself fully into the emotional intensity of the story while still finding moments of levity behind the scenes. He described the atmosphere on set as supportive and uplifting, crediting the cast, crew, and mentors for creating an environment that allowed him to fully explore the role.

“Between takes we laughed a lot,” he said. “Everyone made me feel really supported and cared for during filming.”

One unforgettable moment came during a particularly uncomfortable scene involving a fish. “I had to gut a fish and pull different parts out of it,” Mark recalled. “It was disgusting, but honestly really funny too.”

Despite the darker subject matter of the film, Mark says every scene left an impression on him, and the production experience “went by in the blink of an eye.”

Mark Sodukh Young Talented Actor Rising in TV & Film

Born in Balashikha, Russia and raised in Los Angeles, California, Mark began acting at just nine years old and quickly built an impressive résumé across television and film. Audiences may recognize him from his emotionally resonant portrayal of young Bobby Nash on 9-1-1, as well as his work in In Nomine Patris, an official selection of Hollywood Horrorfest. His credits also include Diamond in the Rough, Queen of Revenge, and multiple leading appearances in Dhar Mann productions.

What continues to set Mark apart is his ability to bring emotional depth and authenticity well beyond his years. In The Man Upstairs, that talent is unmistakable. Rather than leaning into exaggerated dramatics, Mark delivers a restrained and believable performance that gives Julian humanity at every turn, making the character’s fear, loyalty, and resilience feel deeply real.

Off camera, the young actor maintains an equally energetic life. A passionate cook, martial arts enthusiast, tennis player, and fisherman, Mark also enjoys musical theater and spending time outdoors with his family!

Official Social Sites Follow Actor Mark Sodukh

The Man Upstairs marks not only a career milestone for Mark Sodukh winning Best Actor, but a clear sign of a rising young talent finding his stride in emotionally demanding roles.

https://www.instagram.com/marksodukh_?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

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