Bello
#218
WINTER 2022
FREYA ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDER BEER
ISSN 2769-5077
DIG
Photo DAVID HENDERSON
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ISSUE 218
TABLE of CONTENT
Freya Allan WINTER 2022
Top BARBARA BUI Hat LAIRD LONDON
06 Letter From The Editor
58 Hyped | ALEXA SWINTON
07 BELLO Obsessions
62 Hyped | ELUJAY
08 Cover Story | FREYA ALLAN
64 Hyped | SHAUN
20 Spotlight | SOPHIA ALI 34 Fashion | HYLA'S SECRET GARDEN 46 Fashion | A BLINK TO THE PAST
67 Design your dream shoe with TAFT 68 Hyped | LILLY KRUG 72 Maison Privée Shopping guide
54 Feature | NETTA WALKER
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Photo NIRMAL RAJENDHARKUMAR
Letter From The Editor Bello
Love is in the air! The sun is coming out and the birds are singing! Here at BELLO, we hope you have had a nice start to the New Year and are excited to share with you what we have in store from this month! For our cover, the beautiful Freya Allan from THE WITCHER rocked out on the set of a Bello Cover Shoot in London, shot by Alexander Beer. For our Spotlight, the beautiful and fierce, Sophia Ali, who recently stars as a lead in UNCHARTED and plays alongside a stellar cast. Alexa Swinton from "And Just Like That...," artist and singer SHAUN, Lilly Krug from SHATTERED, and rising artist, Elujay, have got us HYPED this month with their new projects whether it be TV, film, or music! So beautiful seeing the different talented out there. Of course, if any of you are ALL AMERICAN fans, well, get ready, as the spinoff ALL AMERICAN: HOMECOMING, is coming out soon and Netat Walker is amazing! We have some beautiful fashion editorials for you to check out and of course our Maison Privée Shopping Guide ad Bello Obsessions. Take a moment to think about who and what you love and soak it all in! Bisous Bisous Alexandra Bonnet
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Curated by Stephane Marquet
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN The noirs nail polish LALIQUE Cabochon ring
TOM FORD Ombré leather fragrance
DOLCE & GABBANA Large Beatrice leather tote bag
GUERLAIN Orchidée black imperail Age-defying Serum
GUCCI oversized heptagon-frame sunglasses MUGLER Illusion-neck panelled bodysuit
CHANEL Baume essentiel multi-Use Glow Stick TRUDON Napoleon candle
VERSACE Juno platform pumps
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FREYA ALLAN
by Alexander Beer
Top JEN LEE Trousers BARBARA BUI Shoes EMMA HYACINTH Earrings, bracelet SHAPE OF SOUND
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Top BARBARA BUI Hat LAIRD LONDON
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FREYA ALLAN SOARING HIGH
“ I’ve definitely learnt that pressure fuels me and
that I love to be challenged; that’s what keeps everything so interesting and alive,” opened up actress Freya Allan who stars in the hit series THE
WITCHER. The series’ second season has been
a major hit in the world of TV and here at BELLO, we are excited to share with you our exclusive
interview with the woman who plays the role of “Ciri,” the princess of Cintra.
I worked hard at things because I wanted to and
was driven to rather than being forced.” If only all parents could be like that, am I right?
Having a support system so stable and strong is truly a blessing and for Freya, it allowed her
to pursue her dreams full throttle and to have people to share them with! Throughout the filming
In Season 1, her character experiences much loss and turmoil in a rapid manner so this new season
allowed Ciri to contemplate everything she went
through before. “She is discovering things about herself and her family she never knew and so she
is trying to figure out who she is and what she
wants to do with her future,” explained Freya. “The lingering fear of this uncontrollable power she possesses hanging over her shoulder constantly.”
Oooo! A determined character who values her voice, the actress finds the same characteristics
within herself--off screen. Laughingly she added, “however, I did not grow up in a castle.”
of the first season of THE WITCHER, the actress’ mom and brother came to Budapest which
made the experience even more meaningful and memorable. And on the topic of memories,
another moment that stood out to her was when “her friend Jack spent a whole day learning to
milk a bloody cow only to come onto set the next
day to find a Hungarian super horse in its place, due to the cow having other commitments,” Freya concluded with a laugh. Holy cow!
Alright, Alright. In all seriousness, working on THE WITCHER has filled the actress with love, passion, dedication, and a sense of camaraderie.
This sense of poise and rationality stems from a
childhood in which she had to mature much more
quickly than other kids. Her parents separated
when she was just a baby which lead her to live a split double life. Having had to navigate through
it all, Freya learned many hard lessons young
but luckily had two parents who “never put any kind of pressure on me and were supportive of
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whatever I chose to do,” she shared. “As a result,
“Everyone’s so dedicated and we’re all working
hard to produce something as a whole,” she
opened up, “which is such a nice feeling, especially when there are those inevitable hard days.” A sort of relief some may say? Especially on those
shoot days where everyone is in a good mood and “ there’s laughter in between the moments of
focus.” Of course, there is also beauty in those days where you “conquer a scene you were
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nervous about as well as bad shooting days” where you just have to get on with it and get the
job done. And with the very best by your side… not too bad right?
fighting for.” And that is what makes her stand out: going beyond what is expected from a character
in a film and providing a performance that will truly get the audience thinking!
It’s important to make a note of those who light
you up and those who bring you more anxiety than anything else so take moment to do so. And see how things shift!
As Freya continues her journey as an actress, her next upcoming project is an Indie film called
BAGHEAD. A role that kind of fell on her lap, this will be her first time leading a feature film…um, okay Freya! Get it! “I’d shot a film with studio
canal before and they’re lovely, AND it’s Berlin, why wouldn’t I!” she added. That’s a fair point,...
Playing the role of Iris, a woman who takes
on a pub that belonged to her father, who she barely knew and who very recently died, some
weird things begin to happen. “But I hope that
audiences also get to see the emotion and reality within the horror element of the film too though,”
Freya shared candidly. “That’s what I was always
Freya has always stayed true to herself and what she wants, something that started at the age of 4 when
they were reading out the casting for the school nativity and they said, “Freya: sally the wolf”, (who she was told eats the sheep). “I shot up my hand
up and said, in front of the whole class, “I don’t
want to be a baddie!”” the actress described with a chuckle. “So I became Sally the vegetarian wolf, and I remember getting the biggest laugh from the audience when I said the line.” Now that is a childhood memory!
Ready for whatever life puts on her path next, Freya Allan is soaring high in the world of film and
television and we can’t wait to see what else comes up! Filled with love, passion, dedication,
and a sense of closeness, the actress has everything that it takes to keep shining bright!
Talent FREYA ALLAN @freyaallan Photographer ALEXANDER BEER @alexbeer7 Assistants LUKE AND JACK DUCKER Stylist SOFIA LAZZARI @sofialazzaristylist at Frank Agency Hair BEN COOKE @bencooke_lockonego at Frank agency Beauty CAROLINE BARNES @carolinebarnesmakeup at Frank agency Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites Shot at FAIRLIGHT STUDIOS @fairlightstudios Production @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la x @alexbonnetwrites x @alexbeer7
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Suit ESAU YORI Boots EMMA HYACINTH Earrings and ring SHAPE OF SOUND
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Suit ESAU YORI Boots EMMA HYACINTH Earrings and ring SHAPE OF SOUND
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Dress A-JANE Boots KALDA Earrings ALIGHIERI Ring MISHO
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Dress and gloves MISCREANTS Earrings HANYING Ring MISHO
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Top JEN LEE Trousers BARBARA BUI Shoes EMMA HYACINTH Earrings, bracelet SHAPE OF SOUND
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Suit ESAU YORI
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Earrings ALIGHIERI Ring MISHO
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Dress SEYIT
SOPHIA ALI
SOPHIA ALI AS SHE CONTINUES TO STEP OUT OF HER COMFORT ZONE STARRING IN UNCHARTED, SOPHIA ALI LANDED A LEAD ROLE ON THE FILM OPPOSITE TOM HOLLAND AND MANY OTHER RENOWNED ACTORS. PLAYING A "BADASS VIDEO GAME CHARACTER" ON SCREEN, THIS WAS TRULY A DREAM OPPORTUNITY! REMINDING HERSELF TO BE MORE SURE OF HERSELF, ON SET SHE HAS THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE NEW THINGS THAT PUSHED HER OUT OF HER COMFORT ZONE. YOU MAY ALSO RECOGNIZE HER FROM HER ROLE ON THE WILDS, WHICH ALSO INVOLVED A LOT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, LOL! KEEP READING ON AND GET TO KNOW SOPHIA ALI A LITTLE MORE!
Congratulations on your lead role in UNCHARTED. What originally drew you to audition?
I played all of the Uncharted games, including Lost Legacy. I played Lost Legacy a few times, actually. I worked out in the gym with a trainer.
I was excited at just the possibility of bringing such a badass video game character to life on-screen. It's not every day an opportunity like that comes around.
Tell us a story about a time you had an adrenaline rush. What was happening? What was the outcome?
Share with us what it was like working alongside such a renowned cast. What did you learn about yourself? While they were so easy to get along with on and off-set, they work so efficiently when required. I see their resilience shine through. To me, Mark, Tom, Tati, Antonio, and Ruben have a solid sense of what's worth their energy and how to place their time. I wanted to learn so much from the experience of filming Uncharted, so I showed up to set every day expecting to grow but instead walked away reminding myself to be more sure of myself. The film is packed with action, legends, and more. How did you prepare for your role?
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Full truth, that was almost every day on Uncharted. I genuinely didn't know what to expect most days. I had a great stunt double, which alleviated the pressure to put myself in a potentially dangerous situation, but I didn't know for certain what I physically could and couldn't do. They asked me to run down the side of a water fountain in Barcelona, and then slide down the hood of a car. I said, "let's give it a go." It wasn't until I was at the top of the fountain, without wires or safety netting, that I was questioning myself and my ability to run along a ledge, this high up, covered in water, and not severely injure myself. I had so much adrenaline pumping, I just did it. And I was okay. I even did it a few times. It was never not scary.
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You also star in THE WILDS (love the show). How does that project differ from UNCHARTED? They're technically similar in a lot of ways. most of the time I could expect physical activity, such as heavy stunts and stakes. However, material wise, tone, pace, basically everything else could not be more different. The Wilds was a good preliminary for Uncharted as far as stunts. The Wilds is a lot more performance driven. Did you form any special bonds on set of THE WILDS? Explain. We're all away from our homes for the entire shoot, not to mention the material is written and portrayed in such a way that bonding happens without us even realizing. The cast is like my sisters. Growing up, what was your response when people thought you wouldn’t make it? I never knew anyone who said that to me. If they only thought it, then maybe I'm lucky or was blissfully unaware. I can get tunnel vision
when it comes to my goals and aspirations. I take no time to notice the people who would compromise the velocity. I had some family members disagree that entertainment would be the right path, because there are fewer opportunities for women like me. That was because they care and want what is best for me. Now that I've managed to make a living, I receive full support from them. Any advice for our audience on how to deal with conflict? Don't expect anything. Don't expect an apology, don't expect a reconciliation, don't expect to be right. Something most people do not know about you? I have a chameleon named Phoenix. What comes next? I want to keep challenging myself. Ideally, someday soon, I'll be writing and directing my own movies.
Talent SOPHIA ALI @sophiatali Photographer MATT DOHENY @dohenyphoto Styling SONIA YOUNG @soniayoungstyle Hair ARLEN FARMER @arlenjeremy Makeup DANNI KATZ @dannidoesit using SHISEIDO Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites Production @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la x @alexbonnetwrites
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Top KAFTAN STUDIO Jeans AND OTHER STORIES Shoes LARROUDÈ
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Dress SEYIT Boots NO NAME
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Suit CLAUDIA LEE Shoes MALOUNE SOULIERS Earrings ADIBA
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Dress NIL AND MON Shoes NO NAME
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Suit CLAUDIA LEE Shoes MALOUNE SOULIERS Earrings ADIBA
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HYLA'S SECRET
GARDEN
Photography + Styling + Retouch + Creative Direction MARCUS & WARREN STUDIOS @marcusandwarren Model HYLA GOLDEN DEL CASTILLO @h.y.l.a_ @Campbell Models Accessory Designer H.Y.L.A @h.y.l.a Fashion Designer MARICAR STUDIO @maricarstudio
Gown MARICAR STUDIOS Jewelry Accessories H.Y.L.A
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Gown MARICAR STUDIOS Jewelry Accessories H.Y.L.A
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Jumpsuit ALERSUNDI Shoes RUTHIE DAVIS
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Gown MARICAR STUDIOS Jewelry Accessories H.Y.L.A
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Vintage trousers Shirt ZARA
A BLINK TO THE PAST Photography DAVID SUARÉZ @davidsuarezph Model FERNANDO NORIEGA @fernandonoriega Makeup + Hair JUAN MA CONSTANTINO @juanmacons
ASOS
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TOPMAN
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ASOS
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Vintage trousers Shirt ZARA Vintage boots
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PURO EGO
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NETTA WALKER
STARRING IN THE SPINOFF OF ALL AMERICAN, ALL AMERICAN: HOMECOMING, NETTA WALKER SPOKE WITH US AT BELLO ABOUT HER EXPERIENCE PLAYING PON BOTH SETS AND WHO SHE IS AS AN ACTRESS AND INDIVIDUAL. EXCITED TO BE PART OF A SHOW THAT HAS TOUCHED SO MANY HEARTS, THE TALENTED ACTRESS HAS LEARNED A LOT ABOUT HERSELF THROUGH HER CHARACTER. CENTERED AROUND BLACK EXCELLENCE, THE SHOW PORTRAYS DIFFERENT CHARACTERS FROM DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS AND HOW THEY COME TOGETHER IN MANY WAYS. WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT COMES NEXT FOR NETTA WALKER.
What was it like going from ALL AMERICAN to ALL AMERICAN: HOMECOMING?
this wonderful cast has made that journey so much fun. Playing Keisha specifically has
incredible
taught me how to address my own short
to spend so much time with the OG cast on
eye. Our life paths have been eerily similar, so
freeing, though admittedly I was really nervous.
intimidating. She’s really held a mirror up to
on how I wanted Keisha to move and exist in
in all of my mistakes. I’ve learned a lot about
characters. This fanbase is no joke! I was really
grateful I’m able to get to know her so well.
amazing show runner, Nkechi Okoro Carroll,
What are some themes fans of the OG series
Beverly Hills to Atlanta seamless. Getting to
very different about it?
been one of the most exhilarating experiences
The show is giving drama, just like the OG,
So
wild.
All
American
is
an
mothership of a show, I still can’t believe I got
comings and past mistakes with a much kinder
our pilot. Playing over there was lowkey very
playing her has been very therapeutic and yet
It felt like I was getting to test the waters a bit
me and made me learn to love myself, even
this universe of already established and loved
who I am from playing her and am eternally
nervous about getting it right, and still am. Our and our writers' room made the transition from create our own world over at Bringston has
will be seeing again in the spinoff? What is
I’ve ever had.
so expect that for sure. Black excellence
Share with us your experience on set and
and you’ll be seeing a whole hell of a lot
what you learned about yourself.
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physically and mentally. Luckily, working with
will ALWAYS be a theme in this universe,
throughout Homecoming. NK has created a universe where black people continue to be
Before booking Homecoming I was a Chicago
intelligent, empowered, heard, supported,
most time I’ve ever spent on a set. Let alone
human. The biggest difference would be that
me, it’s been insane. I’d only done little roles in
culture is king. The HBCU experience is very
for months at a time like this. The transition
with black excellence. There’s no space for
theater girl through and through, so this is the
multifaceted and ultimately allowed to be
on a set in Hollywood! This is all so new to
we’re at an HBCU in the south, where black
TV/Film things here and there but never shot
much a character of its own on our show, along
was a test of stamina and endurance, both
anything short of excellence, and that pressure
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creates a different world of experiences for the characters at Bringston.
or attributes I may find interesting or fun to
Favorite part of the show? And of your character on it?
play. It’s easy to doubt your own choices as an actor and to only think about what other people
want you to do. Worrying about opinions of
I love that we’re seeing that blackness isn’t a
monolith. You’ll be seeing such a wide range
of the black experience and solely the black experience. Each of these characters are so different and come from widely different
backgrounds, but you get to watch them come together and build these wonderful and complex relationships.
casting directors and directors and networks
and artistic directors is an easy trap to fall into for me, which is what historically has riled up my nerves most. So I try to tell myself when
auditioning to just play the character the way I feel like I’m having the most fun artistically, which has really helped settle my nerves. It takes the stress away from getting people to
like what I’m doing, and instead forces me
As a woman who falls into the bi/pansexual sexuality spectrum, I personally love that
Keisha is queer. Growing up trying to figure out
to have fun and focus on artistic fulfillment
instead. I can thank the Chicago theater scene for teaching me that thought process.
how to express my sexuality was a really scary
In what ways have your previous roles
loving whoever she loves isn’t taboo and she’s
ever felt like quitting at times?
thing to feel confident about, but to Keisha willing to fight anyone who says otherwise. It’s amazing getting to be in a show where all of
the other characters are supportive and treat her no differently. It’s also amazing that she
has a best friend as open and expressive as Nathaniel. I wish I could’ve seen characters as
confident and open as the two of them when
I was 14, so getting to live in this world as Keisha has been a dream come true.
furthered your love for acting? Have you
Starting out in the Chicago theater scene really
taught me how important ensemble and artistry is. I truly could write a love letter to Chicago for showing me how much I really adore being an actor. I would do a play for 2 months and get paid a $100 stipend, but it never mattered
because I got to create. I got to play and learn about who I could be as an artist and not really
Describe to us a time you felt nervous and how you overcame it.
care about the outcome or others opinions on it. There were so many moments when I was working 2 restaurant jobs, an unpaid theater
I used to get nauseatingly nervous about auditioning. It took a lot of practice and falling on
my face to learn that I needed to trust myself and
my choices, and I still fall on my face OFTEN. Recently I’ve been trying to allow myself to say
yes to whoever I think the character is, trying
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to allow myself to explore whatever little quirks
gig, and couldn’t afford rent. Those were the
moments I really thought about quitting and getting a desk job just for the stability, but that never felt right. Even if I was exhausted and had 20 bucks in my name, getting the chance
to step into a character made that struggle
worth it. No matter the circumstances, acting
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has been the largest source of joy in my life and I feel so lucky to have fallen in love with it. Growing into myself as a theater school drop
out in the Windy City taught me what the height of that love feels like.
hands of women. Because of the black and brown femmes before me paving the way and
changing the game, I can play characters like Keisha. Women like Halle Berry, Viola Davis,
Shonda Rimes, Michaela Coel, Angela Basset,
Growing up, what was your favorite activity to unwind/get away from the stresses of life?
Sandra Oh, Issa Rae, Lucy Lu, Zendaya – they’ve already put in so much leg work and
have revolutionized the way women exist in
entertainment. When I was 10 I never thought
Most of the things I enjoy doing are pretty nerdy or I got made fun of for when I was
younger. I grew up watching a lot of anime in my downtime, I’ve probably seen Trigun and
Yu Yu Hakusho all the way through 40 times.
I’d see a Queer Black and Filipino young woman messily discovering herself on TV, let alone did
I ever think I’d get to play her. Representation matters! You can tell that the industry is fully realizing that now.
I’m a bit of a homebody when I’m not working,
What comes next?
homies back in Chicago and my family back
Hopefully movies and plays! I’ve dreamed of
I do a lot of journaling and yoga and talking to in Jacksonville. I also love musicals, watching
Sunday In The Park with George and listening to old Broadway cast recordings really centers me oddly.
being on Broadway since I was 14, and more
recently have loved exploring independent film. Every actor wants to do blockbuster films
of course, but I’d love to produce movies with
As a female in the industry, do you feel like there is progress? Explain.
the homies back in Chi. I also love writing, so learning the land of producing my own work is on the list of things I hope to do. And putting
I think that all the progress that has been
made in this industry has been made at the
some of the play’s I’ve written on their feet! But
who knows, I’m just excited to keep exploring and learning about myself as an artist.
Photography SARAH KRICK @sarahkrickphotography Makeup PAUL BLANCH @paulyblanch Hair PRESTON WADA @prestonwada Styling MONTY JACKSON @mrmontyjackson Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites
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ALEXA SWINTON STARS IN THE SERIES, "AND JUST LIKE THAT..." WHICH CONTINUES THE STORYLINE OF SEX AND THE CITY. KICKING OFF HER ACTING CAREER STRONGLY, BEING YOUNG HAS ITS ADVANTAGES AS SHE CAN BRING THE KNOWLEDGE OF KIDS TODAY TO THE TABLE. SOAKING IN ALL THE EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS AROUND HER, ALEXA IS ALSO PLANNING ON INTEGRATING MUSIC INTO HER RESUME! WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING WHERE SHE IS HEADED NEXT. GO, ALEXA!
What was it like playing in the reboot of the
a place where that works! For the actual scene
you prepare for your role?
video and I was like - that’s it! It was the right
hit series, “And Just Like That…"? How did
It was so amazing.
kind of cringy cool vibe.
It’s just an iconic show
and I am so honored and proud to be a part
Being one of the youngest on set, what do
on the streets of New York - I realized there
differed from the more experienced actors?
just walk by the cameras. They were taking
I think I brought the knowledge of kids today
how much love there is for the show in New
And also today’s culture - like music.
I really saw the city part. About preparing -
I guess I am a kid so I have the street cred for
original show. And we started and - we kind
cool film makers - we’ve done a lot of stuff
eleven when I first auditioned. So I’m going to
local film programs and so it’s nice to know
For the audition itself - my mom and I work on
Also - there are so many stories on Tik Tok and
were all mother daughter scenes so we could
so steeped in today’s culture.
important story scenes were there - the scene
Did you learn any valuable lessons?
feel like a girl and also the Tik Tok scene. I
I learned so many! From Cynthia Nixon - who
gaming and also the fact that Tik Tok is where
you have a scene where you eat a sandwich
I loved the Tik Tok scene - I had been doing
on you! Because you don’t have to eat very
mom was like - great - let’s USE that - finally -
camera - you don’t have to eat at all. From
of it!
The first time we filmed on location
were so many fans - people were excited to
you believe you brought to the table that
videos and posting and it was so cool to see
- how we speak and how we communicate.
York. Of course, it’s Sex and the City - and
whole familiarity with gaming and Tik Tok and
my dad was like - let’s watch the pilot of the
that.
of realized it wasn’t for my age group - I was
with students at NYU and Columbia and other
wait until I’m fifteen to watch the entire show.
the stories that young people are telling today.
auditions together. And the audition scenes
Instagram and I think a lot of kids my age are
really relate to them. Actually - some of the
where Rock/Rose tells Charlotte they don't
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when we filmed it - we found this Justin Bieber
The
And also I’ve been working a lot with
could really relate to the relationship and the
directed an episode - I learned that when
my peers and I say some important things first.
- you should be aware whether the camera is
this funny beard gesture for a while and my
much on each take. And when you are not on
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MPK - I learned that no detail is too small for a show runner. From SJP - I learned that you can do so many things well - like acting and running
your own amazing shoe company! From Kristin -
I learned that being a kind and warm person on
set does not mean that you can’t be very serious toward your work and that it is good to expect a
lot of yourself and others when working. Kristin was so lovely and I was so happy to play her
their parents can relate to Rock and Charlotte’s story. And maybe the child can be less afraid and
the experience can be less unknown. And same for the parents - they can be less afraid and
more familiar with that experience. So it can help people be part of a community that is accepting - to create that community.
child. Kristin is also very thoughtful - she gave
Why did you want to get into acting?
Miu mini purse. Sarah and Cynthia were all very
Ask my mom! Ha. Okay - I come from a family of
me an amazing wrap gift - this super cool Miu
kind and professional and inspiring in every way! From Molly and Danny - I learned that style
matters and that style inspirations come from
everywhere - especially street and everyday cool original people doing their thing. Also- -there are
some lessons I already know from my parents be reliable! Show up! Work hard! Stay humble!
Work harder but also take time to enjoy family and stuff you love. Like video games :)
entertainers and artists. My mom, Inna Swinton, is an actress writer and standup comedian. My father Rolfe is a trained architect and did
photography and set design as well - he is now a tech entrepreneur. My mom’s dad - my grandfather is an amazing ballroom dancer. His mother was a singer and so is his brother. My father’s mother modeled and sang and of course - my father’s
distant cousin is Tilda Swinton. When I was three years old - my mom played with us a lot and she
Share with us a story that had a strong impact on you while filming “And Just Like That…”
and make up stories. She had some time - she was pregnant with my brother - and she thought it
I said to Kristin that I think they’d be really big if
there was social media then at the time of Sex and the City. And she said - you know - we were big,
right? Very big. Like on the covers of magazines
etcetera. And I suddenly understood - OH - of course! They were very famous. People loved the show!
saw I loved to pretend play - and sing and dance
And then we filmed outside and crowds
of New Yorkers showed up to watch - they were so excited to see the show back in town getting made - whenever we filmed anywhere - and I was like - Oh - I get it now.
would be fun for me to do a professional project. That’s how I worked on my first film - it just happened to star Paul Giamatti and was made
by this amazing artist Matthew Barney and it was actually a zombie movie but also this crazy art
film. I didn’t really get any of that at the time - I just danced and sang with this band of children
and then had to cry when a zombie came though the wall. The zombie was this jazz musician. The movie had these Yale connections too - Matthew Barney and Paul Giamatti are Yalies and both my
parents went there. I would love to go to Yale so that’s fun. My siblings act and sing and play
Love your character’s arc. In what ways do you believe your role helps portray important current themes such as gender exploration? I think it
normalizes the idea of a child being themselves and not only cis gender. So if there is a child
that’s not cis gender - they can relate to Rock and
Bello
instruments too. My sister Ava Swinton studies at a special arts high school and my brother Maxim
Swinton is a standup comedian too and he just
did two projects with Ewan McGregor and is now working on Fleishman is in Trouble with Jesse Eisenberg.
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Do you have any sort of bucket list? Share.
And I want to travel to Japan. I haven’t been there,
Ah - yes. All the items on my bucket list are about
It’s an absolutely stunning country.
listening to her nonstop since she released her
What comes next?
but I don’t care. I would like to meet Taylor Swift!
I hope I can have my own room soon! It’s crazy
to a Taylor Swift concert./ Also I would love to
lot so we do stay in so many places but still. I
am a huge SNL fan - we have been watching that
I recently went to Miami with my sister Ava and
but - yeah.
I love to design on Sims 4 and I would love to
And also I would love to work with Andrew
game. I would love to visit Paris again - I was
incredible. I would love to do a musical.
remember we stayed at an apartment with a view
I also would love to make a movie about the
However, I think I would appreciate it all more
concentration camp in Minsk (Belarus) and also
music - check out my family Youtube channel -
family. My grandfather survived the war - he was
and our singing. I will be releasing new music
grandparents live with us - and I want to make
maybe there will be a Season 2 of Sex and the
Holocaust so that people in my generation know
about this yet. But fingers crossed. Immediate
Taylor Swift :) I am a huge Swiftie and have been album in 2021. My family is so sick of it I think
and I’m in love with their architecture and views.
And play a concert with Taylor Swift! Oh and go
but I have always shared a room. We travel a
meet Miley Cirus and Pete Davidson, definitely. I
want to have my own space and to decorate it.
as a family forever - probably not so appropriate
I loved the design district there and the colors. design a room and even a house - not in the
Garfield - I just saw Tick Tick Boom and he was
there when I was young - well - younger and I
of the Eiffel Tower and we saw it light up at night.
Holocaust. We have lost family members in the
now that I am older. Future plans with acting and
in the Riga ghetto on my mother’s side of the
The Swinton Show where we post comedy videos
a refuge in Russia. I hear these stories a lot - my
soon too and performing live. And who knows -
sure I contribute to sharing the truth about the
City although of course I haven’t heard anything
this history.
plans? School, family, skiing, and improving my Wordle stats.
Talent ALEXA SWINTON @alexaswinton Photography BRANDON LEGER Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites
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ELUJAY
ELUJAY'S DEBUT ALBUM "CIRCMVNT" IS FINALLY HERE! A PERFECT WAY TO GET HYPED ON THIS FINE TUESDAY, WE ARE EXCITED TO SHARE WITH YOU OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH THE TALENTED ARTIST. HAVING BEEN DRAWN TO THE WORLD OF CREATIVITY HIS WHOLE LIFE, ELUJAY RECOGNIZES THAT IN LIFE IT TAKES A VILLAGE AND CONTINUES TO EMBODY THAT SPIRIT IN HIS PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL LIFE. MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT HIS LATEST ALBUM AND ENJOY!
Tell us more about your debut album that is coming
Have you always wanted to be an artist? Growing
It is an album about finding specific transitions in your
I don’t think I necessarily always wanted to be an
out.
life. I made it at a point where we were finding different ways and shifts out of such a harrowing period. We
had to switch our entire mode in interpreting the world and how we go about our daily lives. So it was kind of made out of that. I don’t want to say that the album
was made out of frustration, just a general gripe that I had with how the world was shifting. It’s a dynamic
up, did you always love music as you do now?
artist. I’ve always wanted to do something creative.
When I was younger, I felt that being an artist or a singer was corny. I think I wanted to be a rapper if I
chose any creative field when I was 10. Obviously, I was into so much other stuff when I was younger, but I always thought that being a singer was corny.
album that has a lot of different sounds. It’s one of
What is one of the harshest truths you have ever
want to say before leaving this earth, this would be
I’ve had to face the truth that I can’t always do it by
those albums where if there were a few things I would an excellent album for that.
had to face? How did you overcome it?
myself, and that I need a team, whether it’s on the business end of stuff, emotional support, or even on
What does this album mean to you?
This album is my introduction to the world as an artist.
Everything that I’ve done from High School leading
up to now. I became a stronger version of myself. To me, it simply means growth. Sometimes, it’s just that simple.
Pick one of your favorite songs from the album and explain what the true meaning behind it is.
My favorite song is ‘Ratrace’ because I think that song is very anthemic of the entire album. It speaks
to the core of what the album is really about. So, it’s about this idea of feeling lonely and feeling like
it’s easier to cop out and dissociate from the world
instead of competing in this rat race of life. America is
the musical side. It comes with realizing that I can’t
always rely on myself to get shit done. I feel like it’s been a hard thing for me to face since I’m a very selfsufficient person. It bogs me down when I can’t do something on my own.
On a daily, what are ways you cope with stress/ anxiety?
I go on long hikes. I like to go on 6-8 mile hikes. It’s
my form of working out and getting cardio. If it weren’t
for any cardio, I probably would have had a terrible burnout because I was on the brink of burnout trying
to finish this record. That brought sanity and clarity in such an authentic way.
a rat race if you break down the financial institutions
With the New Year coming up, any changes you
competition, you’re competing for wealth, essentially,
I’d like to see normalcy and no covid. More festivals
and how the government regulates us. Everything is a
and I feel like the pandemic brought that out. It made people realize what’s going on, and the blinders were removed.
hope to see in the world? In your own life?
and more shows; I want to see people’s beautiful faces when I’m singing on stage. I also want to travel
and see more parts of the world. It’s been an ugly two years, so let’s get rid of that stuff!
@elujay Photo Credit KHUFU NAJEE @khufunajee Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites 63
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SHAUN
SOUTH KOREA'S VERSATILE DJ/PRODUCER AND MUSICIAN, SHAUN, HAS GOT US FEELING HYPED. OVER THE YEARS, HE HAS BEEN EVOLVING IN HIS DIFFERENT TALENTS AS HE CONTINUES TO ALSO PUT ON LIVE PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND THE WORLD. OVER THE YEARS HE HAS CONTINUED TO MAKE A NAME FOR HIMSELF IN THE WORLD OF MUSIC AND WE ARE ALL ABOUT IT! CHECK OUT OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BELOW!
What about the music industry stood out to you the most before joining it?
revealed in what was in store for us. Our
days were a continuation of making good
When my first single was released in 2017,
music, relishing our moments on stage, and
there were very few DJ/Producers who
wandering around the concert halls drunk.
Korea. I found it a shame that dance music
Time
clubs.
my bandmates, “Let’s make music that is
Therefore, I began working on music that
be appreciated on the way back home and
dance and easy listening, in hopes that I
again within the comfort of our homes. Let’s
released their own original tracks in South
was treated as music only reserved for the
passed,
and
in
the
process
of
making the band’s second album I told enjoyed not only on stage, but that can also
combined the strengths of two genres,
that can be recalled to be sung again and
could produce a sound that wasn’t confined
make that kind of song.”
be enjoyed on a daily basis.
To this day, I strive to make memorable
Around the same time, idol groups were
I shared with my members that day.
were pursuing the kind of music I was. I
Is there anything you hope you can help
to just the clubs or festivals but could also
music as I reflect on the words and resolve
immensely popular, and not many musicians believe this enabled my music to come across to the public as fresh and new.
When you began your music career, what
goals did you first have and how have they evolved?
change in the industry?
Currently, as many South Korean boy and girl groups are recognized and loved worldwide,
I thought it very possible for some people to
believe that specific part to be everything there was to Korean music.
I started my music career as a member of a band. At that time, my band members
I take great pride in the fact that many
exciting energy into our music. We weren’t
as well as underground musicians are active
and I were able to capture our fun and
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set on a specific goal, but rather we simply
Korean indie musicians, singer-songwriters,
Winter 2022
Bello
and delivering fresh, diverse music. I want
Favorite way to get the crowd hyped up?
many people.
I don’t really have a signature since I can
to introduce them and make them known to
I too have been active in the Korean indie
music scene, and I have a strong desire to support the passionate and hardworking
musicians who are presently persevering. This desire pushes me to apply myself to improving and keeping my sound fresh.
just play the music I’ve made and edited.
While it is definitely fun to play one genre of music, personally, it feels more interesting to mix a variety of music spanning multiple
genres. Of course, this in turn enriches the experience to be much more colorful and enjoyable for the listeners as well.
Share with us what your music means to
Growing up, what was one of your favorite
When I make music, I feel comfortable as
I’ve loved movie soundtracks since I was
you and what you aim for while creating.
though I’m home. Without it, I would not
be able to explain my life thus far, who I am now, or even imagine who I’ll be in the
future. I’ve set a simple and clear goal for myself: “To make good music that brings me joy while I’m making it.”
music experiences and why?
young. Growing up, my parents’ CD collection
consisted of numerous original soundtracks for movies. I really liked how listening to a
certain song from the album could evoke the specific aura and atmosphere of the
movie the soundtrack was made for. To this
DJ, musician, and producer. Tell us more about each “hat” you wear!
day, whenever I watch a movie that deeply resonates with me, I always find its original soundtrack to listen to again.
I think the producer part of me plays
What comes next in 2022?
envisioning and bringing to life a concept
Beginning with my upcoming collaboration
the biggest role. I find great pleasure in
or picture I’d drawn out in my mind. As a
musician, I’m able to find joy in singing
and playing my music to those who like it. The joy I feel while performing as a band is especially great. Lastly, as a DJ, there is
a certain gratification and appeal in having people dance and move to the music I’ve chosen and mixed with my own fingers. All
three of them delight me in a very different way that I can’t let go of any of them.
Considering my various roles, I make every effort to fulfill each one.
track with YUNA in February, I have plans to continually release music for March,
April, and May. In general, I wish to deliver many releases this year. If possible, I would
also like to go on tour and hold concerts. I sincerely hope that I will be able to meet all
my fans around the world, who consistently
shower me with love and interest, in person and perform my music in front of them. In my spare time, I upload various content on my YouTube channel and Twitch in order
to communicate with my fans. I want to be
What is your signature while you DJ?
able to continue this and reach out through streaming.
Talent SHAUN Photo Credit 285, WARNER MUSIC KOREA Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites
Bello
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LILLY KRUG
STARRING IN SHATTERED, LILLY KRUG PLAYS THE ROLE OF SKY WHO SHE PREPPED INTENSELY FOR. HAVING HAD SUCH AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE ON SET, THE ACTRESS DID WEEKS OF STUNT TRAINING AND IN-DEPTH PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH ABOUT THE PSYCHIC OF HER CHARACTER. FACING HER FEARS AND FINDING WAYS TO OVERCOME THEM, LILLY IS TRULY AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL. REMINDING US TO STAY TRUE TO OURSELVES AND LISTEN TO WHAT OUR BODY, MIND, AND SOUL NEED, IT'S IMPORTANT TO DO SO AS WE HAVE EACH OTHER'S BACK BETTER THAN ANYONE ELSE! ACTING BRINGS LILLY KRUG A SENSE OF PURPOSE AND WE ARE EXCITED TO SEE WHAT COMES NEXT!
Congratulations
on
your
role
in
SHATTERED! How did you prepare for this role?
seeds of the script to seeing the finished project. It is enthralling to tell a story and
shape the way it comes together. You get to
Thank you! It was a fascinating journey to
build a relationship with the audience and
begin to tell you how much fun it was. I did
of your character. To collaborate and work
to use every object as a weapon and did
the most rewarding experiences and it’s the
explore Sky and her world, and I cannot
take them on an emotional rollercoaster
four weeks of stunt training where I learned
hard to see your idea come to life is one of
in depth psychological research about the
creation that is so much fun.
I did, the more I could empathize with her
Do you recall a conversation with someone
psychic of my character. The more research and the more loveable she became. There
on set that had a strong impact on you?
of childhood trauma. In a way, SHATTERED
This one is a tough question to answer.
power back. When she breaks free from her
set, and I learned something new every day.
in a way she has never felt before the only
Luis Prieto, who pushed me to portray
how she has experienced it; abuse. It was
hearted character. Another very impacting
that aggressive, angry, and psychologically
taught me that in real life we try to control or
that is what I love about this job!
I constantly remind myself of that. Rather
In what ways did this project shift your
often try to hide your true feelings, which
is a vulnerable side to her, that carries a lot tells the story of her trying to gain her
There were so many inspiring people on
abusive stepfather and experiences love
It was an honor working with our director,
way she knows how to show love is through
an unfiltered, unapologetic and yet light-
a challenging role to take on, I had to find
conversation was with John Malkovich who
broken part of her in me and vice versa. But
stop emotion rather than showing emotion.
perception on being an actress/ in the industry? Shattered
than playing an emotion or moment, you makes the acting a lot more natural.
Is this your first thriller? What drew you also
re-emphasized
the
importance of teamwork to me. There is no
69
a vision to life. All the way from the initial
to audition?
feeling that compares to dozens of people
I had a small part in a thriller called Every
all eager to see a story come to life. The
thrillers in general is the suspense and the
meet is one of the biggest pleasures. It
what really drove me to Shattered was the
working together, towards a creative vision,
Breath You Take. What fascinates me about
collaboration and the people you get to
pace of the story. It’s nerve tingling! However,
also deepened my appreciation of bringing
interplay of the love between Chris and Sky,
Winter 2022
Bello
why Sky acts the way she does, and how she uses her attraction and feminine ways to lure him in. In a way it is a feminine story of a girl
that uses all her assets available to make the
most of the life she seems possible. The genre
bending of romance, horror, action, and dark humor is what makes Shattered stand out and immediately got me to audition for the film.
What is a fear of yours and how do you overcome it?
The Plane is also filled with a lot of emotions! It is an action movie packed with a few
unexpected turns and tells the story of how a pilot who guides the people in his surrounding
to survival, but also find his strength and purpose for life again. The audience can expect an emotional ride and a gripping movie where
they can’t look away. My character, Brie, is traveling the world with her best friend, when they find themselves on a plane about to crash on New Year’s, and it is a brutal journey to
Some fears are more difficult to face, such
as certain emotional fears, that take a lot of strength to overcome and a willingness to confront those. I used to have a fear of being
alone, and now I know that time alone is actually very precious and valuable. In order to
learn how to not feel alone while being alone, I decided to hike Kilimanjaro alone at the age
of 18. Without knowing anyone before landing
in South Africa, and not having cell service for
10 days, I learned there’s something beautiful
about getting to know oneself on a deeper level and appreciate the time you have with
yourself. Another fear I used to have was of the deep ocean. But very early on in my life, I
learned that the only way to overcome a fear is to grow through it. To try to witness it and
experience that it may be irrational. Hence, quite early on I decided I wanted to try scuba diving and got my first license at 12 years old.
Ever since I fall in love with the ocean more
every day. Now I am fascinated by the depth of the ocean, the animals, and the ecosystem
underwater. That taught me that fears can be transformed into something beautiful.
maturity for both characters. How
does
SHATTERED?
this
project
differ
from
The Plane is an action driven movie, where the events drive the plot and continue to place the characters in challenging situations.
Shattered, on the other hand, is more character driven, as the audience never knows what Sky
is up to next. However, with both movies, the
audience cannot anticipate what will happen next. What will Sky do next in Shattered, or what will happen to Brie in The Plane?
Do you believe you have found your purpose? explain.
Yes. I believe acting is my purpose because
it does not feel like a job. I remember one
day, we were driving home after an extremely long night shoot on Shattered, the sun just
started rising and the driver asked me how I was feeling. All I answered was: “I’m pretty
exhausted, but today was one of the best days of my life.” There is nothing more thrilling to
Tell us more about your upcoming role in THE PLANE. What can the audience expect?
me than bringing a story to life. I always seek opportunities and projects out of my comfort zone that allows me to continuously grow.
@lillykrug Photographer: KRISTIN GALLEGOS @kristingallegos Makeup: LOREN CANBY @lorencanbymakeup Hair: KYLEE HEATH @kyleeheathhair Styling: LUCY WARREN @lucywarrenstyle Interview: ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites Special thanks to SLATE PR @slatepr @lindsaymaguire @polisg
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Bello
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Photo MAX VAN DEN OETELAAR
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#218
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FREYA ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDER BEER
ISSN 2769-5077
DIG