MOD Magazine: Volume 8; Issue 3; THE AURA ISSUE (Cover 4)

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contributors Carmen Rose, Coco @ Pride Models, Karinda Mutabazi, Lauren Mackellar, Mae Taylor using Mac Cosmetics represented by Reload, Sylwia Wozniak, Angelica Stevinkest, Flora Geng, Daisy Shawn, Holly Broomhall, Lindsey Poole using Mac Cosmetics, Veronika Rusakova @ Wild Management, Dominic Eichler, Kite Chuang, Daniele Logis Rizzo, Dominique @ Milk Management, Lena

Morgenstern, Magdalena Wlodarkiewicz @ Nina Klein Agency, Alicia Johanna @ Model Werk, Elena Goi, Elena Volkova, Alexandra Osipova, Masha Dobrovolskaya @ Avant Models, Anastasia Black, Elena Iv-skaya, Victoria Michaels @ Boss Models, Kris Oliinyk, Helena Bromboszcz, Karolina Ficner, Daria Krzemien, Sandra Jakubczak @ Model Plus, Natalia Sierzputowska & Zuzanna Lukasik, Trabalza/Jin, Martina Scarano @ Freelance

Fashion, Alessio Giovannelli, Dina Oliinyk @ Pop Models Milan, Model: Victoria Schons @ Silent Models, Hannah LewisLopes, Eleonora Volpe, Erin Taylor, Anahita Roshna, Sara Golden, Jacqui Jacques, Madeline Sadowski, Conor McNamara, David Rutherford, Michael Maire, Daniela Gerosa, InĂŠs Tell, Rosa Fernandez, Victoria Perusheva @ Blow Models, Egle Ellerman, Michelle Jeanette, Natalia Slowik

V ol u me 8 ; I ss u e 3 ; s u mmer 2 0 1 9

features corinne foxx

Editor’s Note 52

This intelligent, compassionate, forwardthinking 25-year-old stars in the new actionpacked thriller, 47 Meters Down: Uncaged, and is quickly becoming one of Hollywood’s youngest trailblazers in fashion, philanthropy and mental health awareness.

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Illustration by Antonio Soares - antoniosoares.tumblr.com

brianne tju This 21-year-old actress started her acting career at just six years old and is making strides in the film and television industries, with a leading role in the newly released film, 47 Meters Down: Uncaged. Brianne also stars in the Hulu original series, Light As A Feather.

brenda song

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This actress is no stranger to the screen, with appearances as London Tipton in Disney’s The Suite Life of Zach and Cody, Christy in The Social Network, Jennifer, in the Netflix original, Secret Obsession and the upcoming Hulu series, Dollface.

on the cover Photographer: Raul Romo Talent: Brenda Song Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMGLA using Lime Crime Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian

Welcome to The Aura Issue! While putting this edition together, there was a particularly unique vibe that emanated from the pages. The talented artists featured in this issue continue to push creative boundaries , while producing memorable images. It felt like I was witnessing the full extent of what we’re capable of creating, when allowed the freedom to exercise full artistic expression. And I couldn’t be more excited to share these stories with you all!

Hopefully, while exploring this issue, you’ll discover an image or passage that evokes a similar feeling.

- Shannon Phelps

corinne

foxx Success-driven, intelligent, compassionate, forward-thinking—these are just a few of the terms I’d use to describe our latest cover story subject, Corinne Foxx. From starring in the new action-packed thriller 47 Meters Down: Uncaged, to becoming one of Hollywood’s youngest trailblazers in fashion, philanthropy, and mental health awareness, this 25-year-old has paved a way for herself in the entertainment and business worlds that is likely to make her a household name for years to come.

Written by Ashley Dawson | Photographed by Raul Romo

“At the time, a lot of my friends were creating their own products and starting their own companies. So, I wanted to find a way to support them. I realized that I had a lot of followers, so I wanted to find a way to direct my followers to these up and coming female business owners. So, I created Foxxtales. Once I launched, I wanted to extend our brand to other female business owners that were just starting out.”

Indeed, Corinne wanted to take her naturally large online audience and redirect it to her peers, using her voice and societal presence to empower fellow women. Her generous entrepreneurial spirit moves in so many ways that few dare to, existing to inspire those around her to greatness. When asked about the specific business owners featured on her site, she says that she, “loves telling the story of the female business owner.” This love bleeds through the lines of text on her site, seeping into the reader’s mind and giving hope to many young women

Makeup: Francie Tomalonis, Hair: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner

orinne Foxx is no stranger to the limelight, as anyone who is familiar with her father, Jamie, knows. But she has her own unique way of taking on the world that really sets her apart from the crowd—and she’s here to make a tangible difference in people’s lives for good. Her early career has been a whirlwind of education and entertainment, in which she’s developed a mind for business and female empowerment, as well as an eagerness to help others. An amazing example is Corinne’s online platform, Foxxtales, which strives to lift fellow female business owners up and to shed light on what it is to be a woman in such a demanding industry. Corinne’s mission in starting the platform? Simple—to find a way to support her peers in business. When asked to elaborate on why she founded the platform in the first place, she speaks candidly about her friends’ growing businesses:

Corinne wears: Suit by AMur Official, Jewelry

by Asos

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Suit

by AMur Official, Jewelry by Asos

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Suit by AMur Official, Jewelry

by Asos

dreaming of making it as their own bosses. She relays to me stories of the first initial businesses on the platform— those of her close friends: “My best friend, Natalie McMillan has her own jewelry line that she designs from home. She really inspired me to create the website. I saw all the work that she was putting into her line and how beautiful her pieces were, I wanted to find a way to direct my followers to her company.”

And when talking about the mission of Foxxtales, Corinne sums it up eloquently: “On Foxxtales, we are dedicated to transparency. We want to encourage other young women to start their own businesses, but also want to be upfront about how difficult it can be.”

This sort of dedication to truth, empowerment, and education has been a theme that Corinne has carried throughout her young life and early career. Her strength and determination shine through in her fashion and film career as well, and she constantly finds herself traveling and working demanding jobs—sometimes even hopping on planes to the Dominican Republic the night before a shoot.

When asked to describe the most difficult aspects of her role in the upcoming film, 47 Meters Down: Uncaged, she says: “The most demanding part of this role was the physicality of it.

We spent five hours a day under the surface of the water. The swimming, scuba, breathing, and stunts were incredibly difficult and hard on our bodies. We’d be completely exhausted after a day of shooting.”

Corinne adds that she was “so lucky” to work with such a cast. “We all became incredibly close during the filming.”

The drama/thriller, which is a sequel to the original feature, stars Sophie Nelisse, Corinne Foxx, and Brianne Tju. The film released on Friday, August 16th, so you can catch it in theaters around the world today.

In addition to acting, Corinne has also set herself apart as a model and influencer within the fashion world. I ask her to touch a bit on what fashion and style means to her, and she tells me: “Through modeling, I’ve really gained an appreciation for fashion as an art form. I’ve seen some of the most

beautiful pieces of art walking down the runway. That was something I couldn’t really understand before I started modeling. I think that fashion is a very expressive art form and style is a way to choose which art speaks to you.”

Corinne also admits that one of her favorite parts about the job is the incredible travel that she gets to do on a regular basis.

“One of the best parts about modeling is getting to travel all over the world,”she says. “Probably one of my favorite experiences was flying to Italy to walk in my first Milan Fashion Week. It was so glamorous; I was in awe.”

When asked to describe her own personal style in three words, Corinne keeps it simple and sweet: “California.

Easy. Classic.”

Our conversation flows effortlessly from business, to entertainment, to fashion, and now to philanthropy.

Corinne has a passion for helping others less fortunate than herself and uses her voice and reach to give back to society. Her latest effort includes partnering with the United Nations foundation, Girl Up! to help improve the lives of girls around the world.

“I’ve learned so much about the difficulties facing young girls around the world,” Corinne says.

“Girls around the world face so many hardships to prosperity.

From access to education, to clean water, to sanitation, to food, to vaccinations, and to many other things that we take for granted in the United States.”

According to Corinne, the most rewarding part of her work with the group is, “getting to meet the girls that are leading this campaign. It’s so wonderful to see girls taking care of other girls, caring for them and advocating for their rights. It’s inspiring to see.”

For an influential young woman making such an impact on those around her, naturally, I was curious to know which successful female leader she looks up to. Her response is insightful: “I’m a huge fan of AOC (Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez) right now. I watched her documentary on Netflix and left saying, ‘I want to be AOC.’ I think a small part of me has always wanted to be politician, so I see myself in her. I love an underdog story and she has a great one. I love her passion and her grit.”

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Suit

by AMur Official, Jewelry by Asos

Of course, if Corinne were to take to office it’s safe to say we’d all be in good hands. Inspiring others is important to her, and one of the major topics we touch on next is how she inspires others with mental illness like herself.

Corinne has struggled with an anxiety disorder since the age of 14, and the experience has led her to lead a life filled with compassion and empathy for others fighting similar battles.

“When I found out that I had an anxiety disorder, I was determined to not let it define me. I really became a champion for my own mental health and finding ways to cope with my anxiety. There was no one more determined to figure out my anxiety than I was. Now, almost 11 years later, I’m so proud of where I’m at and how far I’ve come.”

Indeed, Corinne has channeled her inner strength and success against her own anxiety into a will to help others better manage theirs. She advocates for coping skills that have helped her, like meditation and therapy, and works hard to destigmatize mental illness in the eyes of the public. she calls herself “a big advocate for therapy,” and believes that “so many people can benefit from it, with or without a mental health issue.”

When discussing the stigmatization of mental illness, Corinne says, “I can’t speak for everyone. But, for me, lack of belief is one of the biggest stigmas. When you invalidate or disregard someone’s feelings, that can be very detrimental to their mental health journey. I think we need to start believing and prioritizing how people feel.

We could save a lot of lives.”

I ask Corinne to sum up this powerful section of the interview by sharing what words of advice she would give to other young people suffering from a mental illness. Her words are profound and encouraging—and as someone who has also struggled with mental illness throughout my life, they speak to me on a deeply personal level: “First, you are not alone. Second, there are so many options for treatment. Don’t ever give up or believe that you have to suffer through life. There is light at the end of every tunnel and there is hope.”

And it would seem that Corinne has found that same hope and light through her education and travels. These two elements seem to permeate every aspect of her life,

pushing her forward and driving her to achieve her goals, while helping others achieve theirs. I asked her about her education, what it meant to her to earn a college degree and how attending college changed her world views, as a whole. The 25-year-old actress tells me: “Education is your key to the world. The more that we educate people, the more understanding and peace we’ll have in our country and on our planet. Right now, access to education is a privilege, but I believe that it is a basic human right.”

This sort of compassion and wisdom seeps into every action Corinne takes. She speaks of education as a global human right, not a privilege, and believes that every person should have access to higher education and learning. She admits that “going to college was the best decision [she] ever made,” and she wants every person to be able to have the freedom to make that decision for themselves, regardless of their situation in life.

I wrap up my time getting to know Corinne Foxx by asking her what moment in her college career really changed her and helped shape the way she viewed the world. To this she says: “I got the opportunity to study abroad in London. It was the happiest time in my life. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, then I went to school in L.A. I feel like, even though I’ve traveled all over, I still had a limited view on how others lived. When I lived in London, I was bombarded by new cultures, new languages, new everything. It was also a time where no-one knew who I was. I could really blend into the culture and be consumed by it. I got to travel all around Europe during that time and it really broadened my view on humanity. I realized that, despite cultural differences, we were really all the same.”

And this, this last line, seems to me the most impactful thing I can take away from my time learning about Corinne’s life. Through her travels, education, and passionate work to improve the lives of women and girls across the globe, Corinne Foxx continues to help tell the story of the young girl turned passionate business woman, whose dreams, ideas, and inventions add value to the world. Because, at the end of the day, no matter where we live or what challenges we face in life, we really are all the same.

Follow Corinne Foxx on Instagram & Twitter: @corinnefoxx

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Dress by I Love Pretty, Jewelry by Caterina Jewelry

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Dress by I Love Pretty, Jewelry by Caterina Jewelry

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Dress by Givenchy available at Saks 5th Avenue Beverly Hills, Shoes by Jimmy Choo, Jewelry

by Alison Lou

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Shirt by Maxrie NY, Jewelry by Alison Lou

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Francie Tomalonis, Hair Stylist: Dritan Vushaj @ Forward Artists, Wardrobe Stylist: Gabriel Langenbrunner, Talent: Corinne Foxx Corinne wears: Full Look by Escada, Shoes by Jimmy Choo, Jewelry by Caterina Jewelry

brenda

song

“I love, love.” Music to our ears, Brenda Song. We love, love too - and we also love you! The actress is no stranger to the screen, with appearances as London Tipton in Disney’s The Suite Life of Zach and Cody, Christy in The Social Network, and more recently, Jennifer, in the Netflix original, Secret Obsession. Song gave us the exclusive on life, a few things she loves, and her new character Madison Maxwell in the highly anticipated Hulu series, Dollface, set to premiere in November 2019.

Written by sandy aziz | Photographed by Raul Romo

“I’ve had the pleasure and privilege of spending some extended time there and it’s become one of my favorite cities. The people are amazing, the history, the food, the museums and of course, the shopping—it’s all so incredible.”

Among Song’s other loves are French fries, chocolate, and her cats and dog. She admitted she “can’t say no” to French fries and “there is never a time when French fries don’t sound good.” Regarding the other two that made the list, Song believes that “chocolate cures everything” and her cats and dog always “cheer [her] up.”

“I would probably be a psychiatrist,” Song replies with conviction upon being asked what she would do if she wasn’t an actress. Naturally, she is fascinated by human behavior and that is why she would choose that profession as an alternative to acting. Her interest in human behaviour is apparent in her demeanor and every single one her responses is tailored with the appropriate tone and adapted to the circumstances.

Put simply, Song is funny and genuine. Same, same but different—she describes herself modestly as “silly, nerdy, and hungry.” When left to her own devices, Song laughed, “I am so boring.” We don’t agree, of course, especially upon finding out that she likes Legos!

“I love building Legos. I’ve built Cinderella’s castle in Legos. I’ll always be a kid at heart.”

Song’s routine is anything but predictable and it largely depends on whether or not she is on set or working.

Makeup: Kristee Liu @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair: Tanya Stine, Stylist: Katie Qian

orn in Carmichael, California, Song has lived in Los Angeles since she was 5 years old and calls it home.

And while LA is home, one of Song’s favorite places is Paris—the city notoriously branded as the city of love.

Brenda wears: Dress & Robe by Stello, Gloves by Busted Brand, Hat by Sensi Studio, Earrings

by Topshop

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine, Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian, Talent: Brenda Song Brenda wears: Dress & Robe by Stello, Gloves by Busted Brand, Hat by Sensi Studio, Earrings by Topshop

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine, Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian, Talent: Brenda Song Brenda wears: Dress by Stello, Gloves by Amorphose, Earrings by Lili Claspe

The one consistent variable in her schedule, however, is her devotion to coffee, which she has every single morning, irrespective of her other obligations. “It’s the only thing I can’t live without,” Song insists. Looks like we can safely add coffee and Legos to her list of loves, which is undoubtedly, a running theme here.

Other things Song enjoys when she isn’t working include: reading, knitting and “cuddling with [her] fur babies.”

What we admire most? She is 100% her own person, and even in an industry that encourages a going-out lifestyle, Song has no problem admitting that she “will always choose staying in over going out.”

Undoubtedly, we can chat about fashion all day, but we wanted to explore the relationships Song built when working on the Suite Life series with Ashley Tisdale and the infamous Sprouse twins, Dylan and Cole. “I have nothing but amazing memories,” Song began. As far as what she thinks of her former co-stars? “Working with them for 8 years makes them literal family.” That chemistry on the show definitely translated off screen too. And, we are proud to offer the great news to Suite Life fans that Song assured us that they all still do keep in touch.

“When we do see each other, we pick up right where we left off [and] it really does feel like no time has passed at all.”

And speaking of the entertainment industry, Song confirmed that it is great that it is “always evolving and changing,” but she also emphasized that “there is only one you” so it is important to “stay true to yourself.”

Since the Suite Life series, spin-offs, and sequels, Song participated in so many other “sweet” things. To name a few, she appeared in binge-worthy shows, Scandal and New Girl.

After all, she reminded us that “as cheesy as it is” she really is just “a young girl from Sacramento that dreamt of being on TV” and now she gets to “live out her dreams daily.” Specifically, Song offers the following wise words to anyone just starting out in the industry: “Believe in yourself and always remember there is only one you. Steer into your strengths and don’t get discouraged.” She confesses that “it’s cliché,” but we appreciate the insight and couldn’t agree more on the prominence of self-love.

“It’s such an honor to work alongside such talented, successful and kind women,” Song said about working with Kerry Washington and Zooey Deschanel. She continued that she “admire[s] and respect[s] both of them so much” and that she was a “sponge just soaking everything in.”

Drawing further from her fascination of human behavior, Song’s insights and truths are raw and candid. From years of experience and having undergone a lot of change herself in the various roles she has taken on over the years, Song trusts that as humans we are “always evolving and learning from our mistakes.” She supplements this by declaring that she doesn’t believe that history repeats itself, but that “we are living during a time of change.”

Taking place in Thailand, for six weeks, Song had the opportunity to shoot the movie with some of her best friends, and she recalled that it was “such a fun and different character to play.”

If you aren’t one of the many 90s kids that grew up watching Song on The Suite Life of Zach and Cody, Song played London Tipton, a character Song confessed was “over the top.” As a result of Tipton’s eclectic nature, Song recalled that she got to do “silly and fun things on that show.”

Having recently worked with Seth Green in the independent feature, Changeland, Song described the experience as “such a fun project to film” and Green’s “passion project.”

Speaking of different - Song branded her latest role as Jennifer in the Netflix movie, Secret Obsession, as the most “diverse role” she has ever played.

Spoiler alert! Song giggled as she told us, “being chased down in the middle of the night in the rain, having amnesia and being held captive by my husband is probably the most crazy and different role I’ve ever portrayed.”

“London Tipton was my fantasy character—she had the closet of my dreams.” Discussing dream closets, Song revealed one of her favorite brands is R13 and her real-life go-to outfit consists of “classic jeans, t-shirt, leather jacket and some Golden Goose sneakers.”

Song’s newest appearance, however, is as Madison Maxwell in the highly-anticipated Hulu series, Dollface, expected to premiere in November 2019. First, Song unpacks the character of Jules (Kat Dennings) as the girl who neglects both her own life and also her girlfriends during the course of her romantic relationship. Naturally, when Jules becomes newly single, Song says that she must figure out how to “integrate herself back into the feminine world.”

“It’s what I am in 95 percent of the time,” she disclosed.

Song’s character, Madison Maxwell, is Jules’ best friend on

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine, Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian, Talent: Brenda Song Brenda wears: Dress by Stello, Gloves by Amorphose, Earrings by Lili Claspe

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine, Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian, Talent: Brenda Song Brenda wears: Dress by Stello, Gloves by Amorphose, Earrings by Lili Claspe

the show and she is “most hesitant to let [Jules] back in after all this time.” An all too relatable character and synopsis amongst real-life girl groups.

“We both speak our mind, we’re both stubborn, and when we know we want something – there’s no stopping us,” Song revealed when comparing her and Maxwell’s similarities. In respect of differences, according to Song, it is only during the course of the show that you really start to see Maxwell’s “vulnerable side” and she is “much more closed off and serious” than Song in real life. Song expressed that Maxwell taught her to “trust your friends” and that it is “okay to make mistakes— forgive yourself for not knowing better.”

Despite the fact Song claimed that Maxwell and Tipton are “polar opposites in almost every way,” similarly to her thoughts about Tipton’s closet—she raved about Madison’s closet. “I would love to steal Madison’s wardrobe.” We can’t wait to see this wardrobe!

In anticipation of the premiere, we sought details on Song’s co-stars Kat Dennings and Shay Mitchell.

According to Song, her and Dennings “couldn’t believe they hadn’t met before” and Dennings became “one of [Song’s] closest friends.” Song praised Dennings saying “she’s not only so talented, but she’s also the kindest most generous human.”

When speaking about Shay Mitchell, Song noted that she “is hilarious” and that she would consult Shay “for recommendations for basically everything.” Song didn’t hold back in saying that she believes “there is no place that woman [Shay] hasn’t travelled to or eaten at.” It sounds like their girl bonding onscreen has translated into them becoming real-life besties, too! In a nutshell, “we had such a blast on set every day,” said Song.

And just in case you are wondering what a few of her goals are, Song wants to have a family someday, and she dreams of working with Cate Blanchett in the future.

“I just admire and respect her work so much. There is nothing that woman can’t do.”

“I’d probably be so in awe they’d have to fire me because I’d just be staring and taking notes all day.” Funny— because we felt this same way about Song when talking to her!

While waiting for the Dollface to premiere, you can catch Song as the voice of Anne Boonchuy on the new animated Disney show, Amphibia. For now, Song divulged that she is “looking forward to a little break.

“Some animal cuddling time.”

Follow Song on Instagram & Twitter @Brendasong and look out for her on ‘Dollface’ in November 2019!

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine, Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian, Talent: Brenda Song Brenda wears: Dress by Michelle Hebert, Earring by Ettika

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine, Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian, Talent: Brenda Song Brenda wears: Dress by Michelle Hebert, Earring by Ettika

Photographer: Raul Romo, Makeup Artist: Kristee Lui @ TMG-LA using Lime Crime, Hair Stylist: Tanya Stine, Wardrobe Stylist: Katie Qian, Talent: Brenda Song Brenda wears: Jacket & Skirt by Kaftan Studio, Top

by Busted Brand, Shoes by Rick Owens, Earring

by Zara

brianne

tju

Brianne Tju started her acting career at just six years old and she’s showing no signs of slowing down.The 21-year-old actress is making strides in the film and television industries, with a leading role in the newly released film, 47 Meters Down: Uncaged, alongside Corinne Fox and Sophie Nelisse. Brianne also stars in the Hulu original series, Light As A Feather. The show follows four best friends who invite the new girl out on Halloween, and things take a turn for the worst when she suggests they play the game Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board. Solidifying her space in the acting world and making space for those like her, Brianne Tju is here and she’s not going anywhere.

Written by Destini Lattimore

destini: At what point in your life did you decide that acting was what you wanted to do as a career? brianne: I started doing commercials when I was about 6 years old. So I kind of always knew that acting was a career.

When I was in junior high, I realized it was what I wanted to

pursue seriously. I wasn’t very studious and I always found myself dreaming of what characters I could be. I’ve always been obsessed with movies and television. I knew I was going to be involved in it, in one way or another. destini: Acting is a bit of a family business for you, as your sister has her very own acting career. How does it feel to work alongside her in the same industry? brianne: Honestly, I feel like my sister was the one who coached me into [acting]. She found success earlier than I did. Having a sister in the same industry made me feel more supported and less alone when pursuing my acting career.

I think people want us to be competitive and jealous of one another, but we are quite the opposite. We’re supportive and giving to one another and it helped us realize that just because you look similar, that’s not all it takes to be right for a role. I definitely wouldn’t have made it as far as I have without her. destini: At just 21 years old, you have film and television

Photographed by Martina Tolot Photography

estini: Tell us a little about your background and how it has influenced who you are today. brianne: I’m half Chinese, half Indonesian. My parents are immigrants and I am one of five children. Being a part of a big family forced me to want to figure out who I was and how I fit in, at a young age.

Trying to balance the culture my parents came from and the culture I grew up in, here in America, I dealt with conflicting interests, in terms of my identity. I now realize that having that duality has made me more open-minded and more dynamic as a person.

credits spanning back to 2007. Looking forward, what are some goals you have for your acting career? brianne: Honestly, I just love to work and I want to keep working as consistently and for as long as possible. I want to tell compelling stories, important stories. I want to challenge myself. I’d love to continue to work towards making AsianAmerican representation more prominent in our industry. I want to get into producing so I can have more control over my career and the stories I choose to tell. destini: Of all the characters you’ve portrayed, which one personally resonates with you the most and why? brianne: Probably Alex from Light As A Feather. That is the longest time I’ve spent playing a character. I feel like I relate to a lot of her struggles and I know a lot of people will relate to them, as well. She deals with identity, addiction, loneliness, family and social pressures, as well as in the second season, a toxic relationship. I found that during the second season, I felt very close to Alex and her urge to want to be her truest and best self, and how difficult it can be to do that at a young age. destini: Alex Portnoy is a deeply complex character who you portray on the Hulu series, Light As A Feather. In season one, we see that she struggles with drug addiction. Why do you think it’s important to see this kind of vulnerability on screen? brianne: I think it’s important because it’s much more prominent, especially in high school, than people want to admit or are aware of. Addiction can start simply from peer pressure or pressure in general, which is how Alex’s struggles started. In the show, it shows that keeping secrets like that will slowly break you down and that it’s not a sustainable way to live your life. destini: Alex is also a lesbian. How did you tackle this aspect of the role and did you face any challenges? brianne: Going into playing Alex, I didn’t want to make her a stereotype in any way. She may be a lesbian, and AsianAmerican, but at the end of the day, she is just a human being. Although those things are important characteristics of hers, I didn’t want them to be her only characteristics. I wanted her to be as seamless of a character as any of the others, because I wanted to avoid making her a token. destini: Why is it important to you to portray an LGBTQ character? brianne: Diversity and inclusivity. When someone turns on the TV, they should see the world around them. Stories are much more compelling and intriguing when they’re real. Playing a queer character that’s dynamic and honest is as important to me as playing any other character. destini: How is Alex different from some other characters you’ve played? Was your preparation for this role any different from previous roles? brianne: This was the first time I was able to really build a character from the ground up and then follow her for so long.

I tried to go as in-depth with her backstory as possible, so that I would have things to draw from, which was really helpful,

especially in the second season. I felt like it was the first time I was able to create a well-rounded character. destini: You are starring in a new film, this summer, called 47 Meters Down: Uncaged. What can you tell us about your role in the movie? brianne: I play Alexa, one of the four lead girls. Alexa is the adventurous one. She’s strong, outspoken, very much the leader throughout the film, which we realize early-on, is a hard role for her to maintain when shit hits the fan. destini: What was the most challenging part about working on this movie set? What was the most fun? brianne: Filming for two months in a tank underwater is really tough, both physically and mentally. I’ve never been so physical for a role, and at times it was difficult to balance that while still trying to stay emotionally honest to the character.

With that being said, being able to dive was so fun, especially with the incredible girls that I got to work with. We were so supportive of one another. I did all my stunts in the movie so it was really exciting to feel like I was 100% dedicated to this character. destini: Who are some co-stars you’ve become real-life friends with? brianne: My best friend and roommate, Gia Mantegna, I met on a show, Life After First Failure, two years ago in Portland. I am very close to my Light As A Feather cast, as well. And I absolutely adore all the girls from 47 Meters Down: Uncaged. I think that the fact we are so close off-screen really translates on-screen for all these projects. destini: What’s one of your funniest behind-the-scenes memories? brianne: Liana loves to scare me on set. She has so many embarrassing, but hilarious, videos of me freaking out because I am such a jumpy person.

destini: What’s your favorite movie of all time and why? brianne: I really love Death Becomes Her. I am not sure if it’s my favorite movie, but I used to watch it with my family all the time when I was young, so I’m very fond of it. Goldie Hawn and Meryl Streep are just so fantastic as leading women in this movie. destini: Who are some actors and directors you’d love to work with in the future? brianne: I’d love to work with Cary Fukunaga, Ari Aster, Mike Flanagan, Jean-Marc Vallee, and Jon Chu, to name a few. Actor-wise, I love working with experienced actors who are giving and supportive and unique. I look up to Michelle Williams, Carey Mulligan, Sandra Oh, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Awkwafina, to name a few, as well. destini: What’s the last song you’ve had on repeat? brianne: ‘D.R.E.A.M.S.’ by Miley Cyrus. The rap part at the end always makes me laugh. destini: What’s your favorite restaurant and what do you usually order?

brianne: I’m not a picky eater, but I love sushi and am always down for salmon or spicy tuna with lots and lots of ginger and wasabi. destini: What are 3 beauty products you can’t live without? brianne: Face wash, moisturizer and lip balm. destini: What’s your biggest skincare secret? brianne: Never sleep with makeup on, and I shave my entire face, once a month. destini: How would you describe your personal style? brianne: Convenient, not too serious, and a little edgy. destini: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why? brianne: Anxious. But I’m working on it. destini: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you? brianne: That I have 17 tattoos... so far. destini: What are your thoughts on representation, particularly in film and television? brianne: I am really glad that we have opened these conversations and that we are making progress, but I do believe we can and need to do more. My view of the world, growing up, was largely influenced by what I watched on movies and television, and I think it is important to represent all groups, especially marginalized groups, because the more aware and empathetic you can feel to people, I think the less hateful and ignorant people will be. destini: Acting can be a very demanding career. What are some things you do to stay centered and grounded? brianne: I blow off steam with friends, often. I spend time with my family and try to take time for myself. I watch a lot of movies and television, so it’s nice to be able to enjoy the industry that I am in, as well as be a part of it. destini: How do you feel the film and television industries contribute to body image in society? And how do you think that’s changed over time? brianne: I think this goes hand-in-hand with representation.

There are different body types in the world, and for us to only see white, slim, “beautiful” women, is not a realistic portrayal of women in society. I grew up having very damaging and warped standards of what I should look like, and I believe it made it more difficult for me to accept myself. Although we have done better, I still believe a lot of what we put out there on social media and in this industry is detrimental to women and their relationships with their bodies. destini: What are your thoughts on social media, specifically, and the influence it has on young women? brianne: I think social media has had a negative impact on everyone’s mental health. The lack of transparency and depth on Instagram has created an overly-accessible culture of unattainable standards and an obsession with “perfection.”

We are constantly comparing ourselves and at this rate, we are never going to be good enough. It is a very scary thing and I urge people, including myself, to try and be more supportive and honest on their platforms.

destini: What advice would you give to someone struggling with their mental health? brianne: You are not alone. Get help. It doesn’t make you weak to ask for help, in fact, it makes you incredibly brave. Your mental health is just as a important as your physical, and just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean that it’s not debilitating or that it doesn’t exist. destini: Your Instagram bio reads: “Everything’s a test when you’re a career woman.” What tests have you faced thus far in your career? brianne: Finding work that’s not portraying me as a stereotype. Finding my voice and using it for myself and others. Learning to be secure in myself and what I have to offer.

Believing that I AM good enough, and that I do deserve good things. destini: Who inspires you? brianne: Frida Kahlo. destini: What advice would you give to other aspiring actresses? brianne: It’s not easy, and unless you really love it and you are willing to work hard and hear “no” a million times, I think there are plenty of other important jobs and roles that women should take charge in.

Be sure to follow Brianne Tju on Instagram: @briannetju.