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Martin Onufrowicz
SOUL VIBRATIONS
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Hanna Pallot
HOPEFUL ESCAPISM
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Martin Onufrowicz
MAN IN THE MIRROR
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Martin Onufrowicz
A LESSON IN EMPATHY
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SURVIVAL INSTINCT

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EMBRACING THE SILLY

For Fin Argus, starting to do drag has been a great way to explore their comedy chops. “I’ve been a silly bitch my whole life, but it has been an amazing exercise of trying to hone in on that and figure out how to make jokes land,” says the actor and performer. Now, Argus is getting to take their funny self to the next level in the best company, starring in probably the most hilarious show of the summer, HBO Max’s The Other Two. In the absurdist showbiz comedy, Argus portrays the role of Lucas – a successful twinky actor whose extremely method acting approach gets in the way of his relationship with the show’s protagonist played by Drew Tarver. We caught up with Argus for our digital cover story to talk about getting a front-row seat to watch masters of comedy at work, their feelings about method acting and the series’ thoughtful commentary on what it means to be a queer actor today.

The Other Two has been my go-to show for laughs lately – it’s so good! Were you a fan of the series before you got a part in it?

 I watched the entire show in two nights right around when the second season came out. I binged the whole thing and I was obsessed. Everyone’s so funny in that show, it’s almost offensive. [Laughs] I’m so jealous of their comedic skills. But yeah, I was so excited to even just get the audition because I’ve never done full-on comedy before – being a part of it has been genuinely a dream come true and I had so much fun [doing it].

 There are so many comedy legends, as well as super talented newbies that are a part of this…

 Yeah, Molly Shannon is a powerhouse of a comedian. But then you also get to see newer actors like Drew [Tarver], who I do most of my scenes with. He is hilarious in every scene – I love the choices he makes as an actor.

 Your character on the show has a very over-the-top approach to method acting. Have you ever had a moment in your career when you also gave this technique a try?

 I think that method acting is intense. It’s not something that I would consciously choose to do because I feel like when you blur the lines between work and personal life, that tends to have some consequences on your relationships. It’s not something that I would normally get into and it’s also something that, honestly, I find a little cringy. So it was really fun to poke fun at it. That said, I have been told before that I have method tendencies. [Laughs]

 No way! [Laughs]

 And it’s not a conscious thing at all! So I don’t really know what to make of that because I already find that embarrassing. [Laughs] But you know, I’ve done some really heavy, dramatic roles and I’ve been put into situations where the line between work and personal life does get blurry – that’s sort of out of my control. So I would say that I’ve dipped a toe in the water of method acting but it’s not something that I would like to do on purpose again.

 What was that moment?

 Here’s the thing: if I’m going to build out a character, I want to understand the motivations of that character. For example, in Queer as Folk, my character was a drag queen. And I had never done drag, never watched Drag Race, I’d maybe been to one drag show. So it was really important for me to understand that culture and become a part of it in some way because I didn’t want to play a drag queen and have no idea what I was representing. I started going to a lot of drag shows and I started doing drag myself – and I can understand why someone might think that’s method – but it was also an excuse for me as a genderqueer person to just break myself open anyway. It’s hard as an actor to allow yourself to be the queerest version of yourself. Especially because I’ve always played the very ‘boy next door’ type of characters – the first character that I method play in The Other Two is sort of the character that I have played my entire life. That’s why Queer as Folk was an opportunity for me to break open. And I used that in my personal life. I was like, ‘You know what, this is a great opportunity to throw caution to the wind and dress the way I want to dress.’ So it’s kind of like, which came first: the chicken or the egg? I really wanted to play that character because I wanted to give myself permission to explore my queerness.

 Out of the many intense things that your character does on The Other Two, which one was the hardest to play seriously?

 I would say it would have to be the episode where I play the serial killer. Filming that was hilarious – I think I only had one line in the entire episode but I’m just around all the time in the background. I just had so much fun with the physical comedy of it all and I was cracking up and people in video village were cracking up as well. Also, it was the hardest one to take seriously because I felt really spooky and I didn’t want to scare people. [Laughs]

 In another episode, your character is a part of the play Eight Gay Men with AIDS: A Poem in Many Hours, which provided some very thoughtful commentary on what deems a ‘prestigious gay role’ in the industry. As a queer actor, what are your thoughts on this dynamic and what type of projects would you like to see more of when it comes to queer stories?

 Well, first and foremost, I appreciate that those types of stories are being told. We’ve seen a lot of it though and seeing queer trauma over and over again gets a little exhausting, especially as a queer person. So I feel like a lot of the time, those stories are revered by people that aren’t even a part of the community and are played by people that aren’t part of the community. That’s where it starts to rub for me because I want to see queer people in roles where their queerness is more incidental – where it’s not necessarily the story, it’s part of the character. I want to see queer people in genre cinema, whether it’s a psychological thriller or fantasy. I would love to play a little fairy with a magic wand, you know? [Laughs] That sounds great. But a lot of the queer stories that end up getting to production do have this element of heavy trauma. And I think it’s important to recognize that modern queerness is not entirely divested from the experience of trauma because that is a reality, but I think we’re missing on an opportunity to manifest a world in which queerness is more incidental and people are living within a wide range of experiences, whether it’s fun, romance, mystery, or horror. I hope that, going forward, queer people aren’t relegated to stories just about their trauma.

 

You said this was your first foray into full-on comedy. Is that something you would like to do more of in the future?

 Definitely. It’s something that I got into because I started doing drag and all my drag is very comedy-oriented – none of it is snatched and beautiful, it’s very silly, nasty and crunchy. I just appreciate having a platform to explore comedy right now because I’ve been a silly bitch my whole life, but it has been an amazing exercise of trying to hone in on that and figure out how to make jokes land. That’s why I felt really lucky to have worked on The Other Two and get a front-row seat to see how these hilarious actors, comedians, writers and directors work.

…

Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Hadar Pitchon

Make-Up & hair by Anna Bernabe

THE EVERY-WOMAN

You probably know Bel Powley best in a comedy role. Storming the scene as an indie darling with Diary Of A Teenage Girl, her latest project comes full circle back to another famous diary – Anne Frank’s.

In A Small Light, Bel plays Miep Gies, the woman that hid the Franks and eventually would rescue the important diary. Still embed with her signature comedic flair, bringing out the normalcy and relatability in the historic drama, we spoke to Bel about the lessons learnt from such a vital role.

Full look Prada, locket Slim Barrett, tights Falke, shoes John Lawrence Sullivan

In a Small Light you play Miep Gies – how did you find preparing for a historic character rather than a fictional one?

It’s such an important part of history so you do feel a sense of responsibility. But I discovered my process is the same, whether it’s a real or a fictional person. Of course with a real person, there is more to draw from – there are so many movies about this part of history, and so many books; there's a plethora of material that I could have drawn. But the first thing I did was go to Amsterdam. The city really is a character in the show. Our showrunners gave me Miep’s cycle routes so I cycled her route to work or where she took Margot through the checkpoint. I’m also very lucky that she wrote an autobiography. You get a such a sense of her vivaciousness and cheekiness from reading that. I read it cover to cover several times.

But at the end of the day, even though it’s a true story we’re handed scripts and narritives. Once we started filming I kind of threw my research out and focussed on being present in the moment.

Left Full look Miu Miu, shoes GH Bass, necklace & earring Slim Barrett

Right Knit Contemporary Wardrobe, badges Nathan Henry, earrings Slim Barrett

Right Knit Contemporary Wardrobe, badges Nathan Henry, dress & shoes Molly Goddard, tights Falke, earrings Slim Barrett

I noticed the lack of accents in the show, I imagine that helped you focus more on the emotional performance?

Absolutely. And beyond even just the accents, one of the reasons that I wanted to be a part of this show was that they kind of threw out formal period language. So often with historical dramas the olden day speak can make you feel disconnected from it and as an actor it helps you connect so much better because you have freedom to improvise without worrying about accent and you don’t feel like its all in the past.

Dress Stefan Cooke, denim Frame, shoes Gucci, badge Nathan Henry, jewellery Slim Barrett

Jumper by Christopher Kane, skirt Pariser, earrings & pendant Slim Barrett

It definitely made it feel very present, serving as a reminder that these people were just like you and me…

Totally. That’s something we reminded ourselves of every day. Like yes, it was 1942 but it was modern times for these people. They were like times ‘I've got the newest washing machine, I'm wearing the newest fashions, I live in a really liberal country where there no way a crazy person like Hitler will ever be able to come into my country’. I think it was a really clever angle at a time when there are alarming parallels with what’s going on in our world today - like anti-Semitism is on the rise again, and there’s a ground war in Ukraine.

Full look Prada, locket Slim Barrett

What was the biggest thing you learnt from Miep?

When I read the script I was immediately thinking what would I do in this situation. She’s so relatable, she’s an every-woman, just a normal girl in her 20s falling in love, trying to find a job, you know. We haven’t put her on a pedestal or thought of her as this saintly hero you feel distanced from. And it’s the normalcy that was so important. It was her mantra; “Anyone, even an ordinary secretary, or housewife, or teenager can turn on a small light in a dark room.” And I think that's the message - you can be an everyday hero. She really believed it and maybe since doing this project, I do too.

Left Full look Prada, locket Slim Barrett

Right Shirt LEJ London, skirt MM6, socks Falke, earrings & necklace Slim Barrett

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Interview by Lucy Harbron

Photography by Erika Denis Febles

Fashion by Nathan Henry

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Hair by Dayaruci at The Wall Group using Oribe

Make-Up by Naoko Scintu at The Wall Group using La Roche-Posay

Stylist’s assistants Rachel Allison & Su Krikken

LIFE LESSONS

Meeting a young creative full of inspiration, insight, and purpose, right as they’re hitting their stride, riding high with the constellations aligned, always brings a sense that great things are coming. That’s exactly what’s happening in the world of 26-year-old model, Dakota Lohan. Born into a biz family (his famous siblings are Ali and Lindsay), it was only a matter of time before he signed up to the dizzying heights of stardom, beginning with perfecting his best blue steel pose. We caught up with him to find out more…

Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, glasses Oliver Peoples

Your Instagram bio says, ‘Love everyone and never forget to love yourself’. What’s been the biggest learning experience so far on your journey of self-discovery and belief in yourself?

As compassionate as I am with people, I also want to be just as compassionate with myself. 

How has Instagram shaped your relationship with appearance, not just in terms of professionally being a model, but also in how you want to personally present yourself and be perceived by others?

I present myself authentically, because it’s important that people know that we can all relate to each other, and that we’re all human.

Left Jacket, top, pants, belt and shoes Versace

Right Full look Prada, sunglasses Oliver Peoples

Do you have any sound advice for young people that might be struggling with how to love themselves?

Know that you’re never alone and find your own escapisms that make you happy and fulfil you. 

Who is your hero?

My hero is my mom. She’s the strongest woman I know.

Full look Valentino, sunglasses Oliver Peoples

Speaking of strong women, you’ve followed in your sister Lindsay’s footsteps with acting, you obviously look up to her too then?

Yes, I think my sister showed me the ropes of acting, then I found my own fulfilment and love with it.

What are your personal and professional highlights of this year so far?

A professional highlight is doing the upcoming Netflix movie Irish Wish with my sister [due out in 2024], and a personal highlight is finding my own niche and connecting with my creative side.

Left Jacket, shirt and pants Giorgio Armani, silver bracelets Le Gramme

Right Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, glasses Oliver Peoples

Yes, let’s talk more about your creative passions. What have you learned so far about being a model?

That you have to accept that you don’t get cast for every shoot, but you have to be resilient and believe in yourself. 

Describe your style in three words?

 Unique, carefree and whatever is clean!

Who’s your favourite designer?

Prada, and I also love to find stuff in thrift stores. Doesn’t matter what designer they are as long as it’s cool!

Left Full look Prada, sunglasses Oliver Peoples

Right Jacket & pants Louis Vuitton, shirt Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

What do you think you’d be doing if you weren’t modelling?

Well, I’m currently involved with a company called Find Your Anchor which is a suicide prevention and mental health non-profit organisation, and I feel passionate about working with them.

What kind of things outside of work do you do, that make you happy?

 Hanging out with my friends, skating, and journaling.

Left Jacket Louis Vuitton, shirt Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

Right Jacket, top, pants, belt and shoes Versace, socks Falke

Tell me your hopes and dreams for the future, and what are you most excited about….?

I’m excited about continuing to learn about myself. I really hope that whatever I achieve with acting and modelling can positively affect people in the future

…

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Alexander Foreman 

Fashion & production by Alexey Kazakov 

Hair by Tonya Pushkareva using Balmain Hair Couture 

Grooming by Tatiana S. Irving using YSL Beauty 

Casting by Josef Bronfenmajer

LONELY HEARTS

Although Wyatt Oleff is only 19 years old, he could be considered a speleologist of the human mind, to be more exact, of its darkest and most complicated corners. Since his beginnings more than a decade ago, the young actor has become known for performances in highly complex projects. His roles have always had a complicated tone, having to face hard dilemmas or deepest fears. The world has always been a cold and cloudy place for the lonely hearts that Wyatt has brought to life, but he has always managed to bring them tenderness and sensitivity. From the tormented Stanley Uris in both films of the adaptation of Stephen King’s It, to the sweet and complicated Charlie on Josh Schwarz and Stephanie Savage's new hit show, City on Fire, Wyatt continues to prove his courage with roles that revolve around the insecurities and fears that make us human. There is no challenge that he can resist or gloom that he cannot light, Wyatt Oleff is the most indomitable outsider of all..

Shirt Louis Vuitton, vest & pants Aknvas

You started your career very early, at only five years old. Could you tell me your first memory of a movie set?

I think my first movie might have been an independent called Someone Marry Barry. That experience was fun because I remember the point of my character in the movie was that I was being influenced by the main character who's this guy who says whatever he wants. So I was just saying a bunch of swear words, and the crew was asking my parents, “Can he say all this?” and they were like, “Yeah, it's fine.”


A lot of actors have always known that cinema was their true passion growing up. Having started so young, I am curious if you ever thought about putting acting aside and doing something different?

Absolutely. I think there's been plenty of moments in my life where I thought maybe this is just a phase or something, or I wasn't exactly sure if this was something I wanted to keep doing. That said, I don't think there was ever a point where I was like, “I'd rather be doing this.” Acting is the thing that I always really wanted to do and the thing that I wanted to continue doing. If there was something else I could do, I would hope to be some visual artist in terms of creating a comic book or a graphic novel or working on games or movies as storyboards or something still related to creating art.

Left Coat Loewe

Right Shirt Michael Kors, knit vest Aknvas, shoes Valentino, hat Fried Rice 

You worked during your high school years.  Did you ever feel like you were missing out on experiences that your friends or classmates were living?

There were a few summers that I missed out with school friends because I was going off and filming things, but I didn't really view those situations as missing out. It was more of me doing my own thing during the summer. And I'd say the thing I missed out most on was caused by the fact that I was working with adults from such a young age and that's who I was more used to hanging around. So I felt like there were a lot of times where I just didn't click with people my own age just because I just didn't talk to them as much. I don't want to sound pretentious here, but there's a sense of maturity that I was forced to have at a younger age that was required for me to work with adults and that just didn't translate to interacting with other kids.


No one better than someone who was a child actor can truly answer this question - do you think it is advisable to start working in this industry so young?

I think it has its advantages and its disadvantages. Starting so young, it works as almost a hobby where you can go to auditions and balance school with it and you're not stressing out because this isn't your income. It's not the only thing that you have going on, it’s not your career yet. If elements of it become ingrained into you early, like the auditioning process, it all just becomes a part of your life. It's easier to comprehend and easier to go to thousands of auditions. I think it's also tough because you are losing a part of your childhood and you are losing time that is usually spent at school or with your friends. Those are still things I did while I was on set, but it was just very different.

Shirt & short Dior Men, shoes Giorgio Armani 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start in the industry at such a young age?

The number one piece of advice I always try to give is to never give up. It’s cheesy, but it’s true. You're going to hear a lot of “noes”, and that's just the nature of the industry. Especially now, with the way that the landscape for auditioning keeps moving and changing. Now, it's just all auditions via self-tapes and there's going to be thousands upon thousands of people who are going to send in stuff. You just have to get used to sending in a tape and not hearing anything because that still happens to me. That is very discouraging, but it's just a part of the process and you have to keep getting back up. So being prepared for that, I think, is very important.


Do you think that working as an actor makes you better at managing rejections in your personal life?

In some cases, I believe so. I think the rejection that you get all the time from acting is not the same as asking out someone who you like. That's a very different rejection, but it's similar in terms of how vulnerable you are. You're showing a very naked version of yourself to a lot of people, and you're just giving them all you have. I think it helps in terms of your confidence and being able to take no for an answer and being able to bounce back from putting yourself out there and getting struck down for it. I think it has helped me a little bit.

Suit & shirt Aknvas, boots Louis Vuitton, sock Dior Men


You’re a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe - what is your relationship with the superhero genre? Are you a fan?

I definitely used to be a lot more. I think when I first got the part in Guardians of the Galaxy, I was so excited. I got to be a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and that was awesome - it was everything I could have wanted as a kid. And I think as it's become such a mainstay genre, it's become even really something that is beyond it. It's just what defines a modern blockbuster and that’s half of all the movies that are successful in the box office right now. I think to an extent, it's gotten a little oversaturated. I've seen a lot of them. They were definitely more effective when I was younger and as I continue to get older, I feel like I'm almost growing out of it. But I still respect them. And there are always those ones that surprise you. Every time I hear good reception about one, I'm like, “Okay, yeah, I'll go see that.”


If you could choose to play any superhero, which one would it be?

I don't really want to go with the basic answer, but I think I will. Actually, I've heard people telling me “You would make a great Spiderman or Superman.” And, yeah, I think I would. I guess young Superman is still possible, but Spiderman is definitely taken. But I don't need the responsibility of being the face of a superhero. I don't know if I want that.


Oh my God! Spiderman and Superman! You got a thing for outsiders! 

Yeah, absolutely.


It’s time to talk about poor Stanley Uris, the character you played in It. Why do you think you were a good fit for that role?

I think I related to him on a lot of levels, especially his fears and his general insecurities. I think he plays that role in the group that's trying to make sure everyone stays out of trouble. I very much adapt to that role when I'm with my friends in real life as well, I try to hold them back from doing something stupid. Or at least I did. That's not me anymore. But definitely, at the time, that was why I related to him and fell into that character so easily.


It talks about our intimate fears. Stanley was a very fearful young man tormented by a Modigliani-inspired painting of a woman. Didn't participating in that movie make you wonder about your own fears?

Sure! I mean, all the characters in the script have their own fears that Pennywise turns into. And I think we all had a moment where we were like, I wonder what would mine be? It would probably be something like spiders.

Left Coat Loewe

Right Shirt & short Dior Men, shoes Giorgio Armani 

Spiders? Really?

I'd like to not be afraid of them. I'm trying to get that fear down and expose myself to it more.


Tell me about a movie that really, really scared you.

The ones that really scare me are the ones that lean more into psychological horror. Anything Ari Aster has done, for example. His movies are about keeping you on your toes and making you feel uncomfortable rather than just scaring you. Also, one of my favourite movies is The End of Evangelion, which is definitely a psychological horror that messed me up for a while. It changed my brain chemistry a little bit. 

Left Sweater Loewe, turtleneck, pants & boots MM6 Margiela, hat Fried Rice 

Right Shirt Louis Vuitton, vest & pants Aknvas

I feel you with The End of Evangelion! If I had to spend the rest of my life with a crying baby like Shinji Ikari, I would be terrified. 

Us by Jordan Peele is also a very good horror movie. The concept of the doppelganger coming to kill me kept me up at night for a little bit.


Horror cinema is experiencing a new golden age, would you like to continue exploring this genre in the future?

Yes! They're a lot of fun. It would be my answer to any genre, but I got to like the script and who's writing it and the director. It's got to be very intentional. I want something fresh, something new and something that really gets me going.


You have just released a new series City on Fire on Apple TV, the show developed by the creators of iconic teen dramas like The O.C. or Gossip Girl. Have you seen any of these series? What type of television interests you as a viewer?

They were kind of before my time, so I never got into them. But I did know of Josh and Stephanie [Savage]. They're legends in this industry and to be able to work with them was so cool. They're just so genuine, fun, sweet and so professional. 

Left Suit Dior Men, socks Acne Studios, sneakers Loewe 

Right Shirt Fried Rice, pants Valentino, turtleneck stylist’own, shoes Acne Studio


My God, you must watch The O.C. 

I actually did a bit. Josh invited me to do a table for a Variety reading where I read for Adam Brody's character. It was super fun. It was my first time watching the show and I was like, “Oh, okay. I see. I get the appeal and why it's popular.”


In City On Fire, you play a shy and lonely boy living in New York City. Have you ever felt like an outsider?

Oh, yeah, all the time. I think that's what attracts me to these characters. I’m very used to being an outsider and being different from how everyone else is feeling. I think that stays true as I get older and as I become more of an adult and people want to go out and party. That's very rarely something I want to do. I just find myself unsure because everyone else is doing this thing, so why can't I like doing that? It’s a feeling that still continues as I grow older. So playing this role is somewhat cathartic. The fact that the outsider is the protagonist makes me feel better about myself.


I think that we're living in a moment when being an outsider is a cool thing.

But you have to own it. You can't just be like, “Oh, I'm lonely and I'm an outsider”. You have to be like, “I'm an outsider, and that's fine, and that's cool, and I'm cool for that.” 


But I think if you make being an outsider the cool thing, it's going to lose its essence.

Oh, yeah. Because if everyone becomes an outsider, then no one becomes an outsider. But I don't think outsiders will get oversaturated. 

Coat & pants Louis Vuitton, shoes Loewe


City On Fire presents the problem of classism which is palpable in a city like New York, but also in Hollywood. After working as an actor for so many years, have you ever been in a situation where you felt there was a class system in the industry?

You have to build your reputation as you go throughout the industry. And the goal, of course, is to be at a point where people are offering you roles and you can just pick and choose what you want to do. But that's at the end of your journey. You have to climb this big ladder to get to a point where you're able to be respected and well-known enough to be wanted by a director. That's obviously the goal. I remember when I was younger going into auditions and the casting director would come out and say hi to someone next to me and they'd have a conversation. And then all of a sudden I would be intimidated because I didn't know this casting director and I didn't know what was going on. Then years later, I would be the one saying hi to that casting director and intimidating someone else. That's just the nature and cycle of things, I think.


I have a feeling you are a restless spirit. Do you like to explore other facets such as directing or writing a script? What can the audience expect from you in the coming years?

I love the creative process and I love creating stories. I think for me right now, I'm young and my brain is not fully developed and it's unsure of exactly the stories it wants to tell. But I would hope to be in five years or so in a place where I'm like, “Okay, I'm going to throw some stuff together and create a little movie.”

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Interview by Juan Marti

Photography by Dorien

Styling by Marti Arcucci

Grooming by Davey Matthew

Casting by Image machine cs

Photographer’s assistant Joseph Whitley

Stylist’s assistant Kathya Lee

FORGOTTEN MASTER

When Alex Fitzalan first learned about the many achievements of Joseph Bologne, he could not believe that his figure has not been more widely celebrated. Bologne — also known as Chevalier de Saint-Georges — was a master violinist, fencer and composer of African descent whose work was initially championed in pre-French Revolution Paris and mostly destroyed after Napoleon came into power. Now, the artist’s life story is brilliantly highlighted in the new film Chevalier starring Kelvin Harrison Jr. in the titular role and Fitzalan as Joseph’s close friend and main supporter, Louis Philippe II. In our digital cover story, we spoke to Alex about the importance of bringing awareness to Bologne’s career, researching the tragic fate of his character and the film’s spectacular shooting conditions.

Full look Prada

The film is based on the incredible life story of Joseph Bologne. Have you heard much about him prior to being part of the film?

 No, I wasn’t aware of his story. Every single thing you read about him is so shocking to the point where you have to ask yourself, “How come this guy isn’t more widely known?” There’s so little and so much about him at the same time – there are not many sources that talk about him but the ones that do, they talk about him with such depth. We were lucky enough to have a group of historians working on the film who were really well-versed in his life, and just generally, life in France on the cusp of the French Revolution. I love history, so I found all of that stuff just so interesting and wonderful to research and learn more about.

Left Alex wear jacket Prada, pants Ami Paris, vintage shirt & waist coat from Fabrique Vintage I Billie wear shirt & skirt N21, shoes Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

Right Jacket Dior Men

 

What amazed you the most about Joseph’s life?

 I think that the most surprising thing was the fact that he was so multifaceted. He was France’s first celebrity, and rightly so! He was a master fencer and master violinist who became one of the most brilliant composers of his time in France. He was considered Mozart’s contemporary. And then when Napoleon took power after the French Revolution, it was kind of like a step backwards. They reintroduced slavery and were the only nation in history to do so. So most of Joseph’s works were hunted down and burned, and he was effectively wiped down from history.

Full look Prada

 

That’s why it was so important to tell this story on screen.

 Definitely. I think that for everyone who was involved in this project, our main goal was to show his life and get his story out there – making people aware that his music was just as beautiful as Mozart’s and the only reason we don’t know about him is because of his skin colour.

Jacket & shirt N21, vintage pants from Fabrique Vintage.

 “Our goal was to show his life and get his story out there – making people aware that his music was just as beautiful as Mozart’s and the only reason we don’t know about him is because of his skin colour.”

You mentioned that you really love history. What was the research that you’ve done specifically about your character, Philippe?

 It’s so interesting because Louis Phillipe II was a real guy, but there’s so little information on what he was like. So it was fascinating to marry the two concepts of playing him – approaching the portrayal of him as if he was a fictional character, but at the same time also considering the source material that we were able to look into. He had a huge interest in the arts and that’s how he met Joseph – he would host these lavish nights and invite talented artists to perform during them. He was also a really fascinating guy because he grew up with a lot of privilege but decided to give it all up, which was such an interesting quirk for someone to do at that point in time – it speaks volumes to his selfless nature. He denounced his title in the middle of the revolution because he was an avid believer in democracy and equality. But even though he did that, he was still beheaded because he was a royal and had a claim to the throne. He spent his life campaigning for the rights of the individual and then once that had been achieved, he ended up losing his own life.

Left Alex wear coat & pants Ami Paris, vintage shirt from Fabrique Vintage I Billie wear full look Prada

Right Tank top Ami Paris

This was your first foray into period cinema. Which part of this experience has been the most incredible to witness?

 Definitely shooting in the incredible interiors. They created these insanely realistic sets in the studio that were created specifically for the movie, full of this gorgeous sprawling marble and intricate fountain systems. We also shot a lot on location in Prague – for example, we shot in these 15th-century bohemian castles that are still maintained meticulously. It was a really special thing to be able to walk around these spaces and just exist in them. Actually, one of the coolest things was being able to shoot in a Baroque theatre from the 17th century. They were the most popular style of theatre back then and there were over 2000 of them at the time, but now, there are only 4 of them left in the world. And the reason for that is because there was no electricity, so to light the stage, they had to use a huge number of candles with a metallic back plate to reflect the light back. And as the whole thing was made of wood…

Coat Prada, vintage shirt & waist coat from Fabrique Vintage

 They all burned down!

 Yeah, they all burned down. It’s absolutely mental.

 

Most of your scenes in the film are with Kelvin Harrison Jr. who plays Joseph – what was it like to work with him and what do you admire the most about him as an actor?

 His work ethic was amazing. He would wake up so early, do fencing, violin and dialect training, and then get to set. He just had the most insane dedication to this that I’ve ever seen anyone have. And it was just so inspiring to see someone so in love with what they do – it reignited that love for myself and made me think, “Wow, I want to do that as well!” He really dives deep and you can see his hard work on the screen.

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Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Joe Brennan

Fashion by Alex Bainbridge

Hair & skin by Fernnando Miranda

Production by Rebecca Deasy

Stylist’s assistant Billie Bull

Photographer’s assistant Jun Yang Chin

SURRENDERING CONTROL

Since playing a faculty member on Quinta Brunson’s delightful mockumentary sitcom Abbott Elementary, theatre and TV actor Chris Perfetti can’t help but think about the teachers that had a profound influence on him as a young student. “I especially remember the one that handed me the Tennessee Williams play The Glass Menagerie,” says Perfetti. “I think of my life as before and after that moment.” In his charming portrayal of Jacob ​​— a History teacher who’s not afraid to embarrass himself for a greater cause – Perfetti creates a heartfelt tribute to the profession that is often undervalued and most certainly underpaid, and he does it while causing many laughs in between.

Short Prada

Abbott Elementary is really a show that people can’t get enough of. In your view, what about its subject matter and tone created by Quinta Brunson has resonated so greatly with the audiences?

 I feel like the specificity of the show allows people to connect with their own memories of that time in their lives. We all know this place. We all had those figures in our life that were in some way formative, whether for good or bad. And so, I think that the show being so – to use a term that I have coined – “Quinta-ssentially Philadelphia” and its mockumentary genre both really lend themselves to hopefully letting people forget at some point that it’s a TV show and trying to make them believe that Abbott is a real place.

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Right Vest Louis Vuitton

 What has your elementary school experience been like? Do you remember any teachers from that time that you either really loved or loathed?

 I have many teachers that I loathed and loved, some are one and the same. [Laughs] This project has been a real karmic, cosmic reckoning for me because grade school was a very mixed bag. I struggled for the majority of it and I knew very early on that regurgitating facts that didn’t interest me at the time is not going to work. Elementary school, middle school and high school were always for me a stage to extract the gold that I knew was there, largely from English and Science teachers – learning about the world, as opposed to learning how to do trigonometry. 


And so, now that I’m playing a teacher, I can’t help but think of all those people who went out on a limb for me. One of them that I especially remember is the one who handed me a Tennessee Williams play The Glass Menagerie. I think of my life as before and after that moment and I think about the content I was consuming as before and after that moment. There were a lot of people who held me to very high standards, higher standards than I was holding myself to. And they definitely kicked open the doors for me and allowed me to experiment and follow my own interests, which is an incredible privilege. I’m sure there are also a lot of teachers whose lives I made hell but to be fair, they made mine the same.

Full looks Kenzo

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Right Full look Kenzo

 Which of the teachers from Abbott do you wish you were taught by?

 That’s really interesting, I’ve never really thought about that. I could probably make a strong case for any of them, but the first one that came to mind – and I think a therapist would probably have a field day with this as some sort of a narcissistic fit – is Jacob. He’s someone who is so eager, so willing to embarrass himself, and in many ways, willing to put himself on the chopping block. And I think that seeing a teacher like that, and seeing an adult be so vulnerable, would have really rocked me as a kid.

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 Prior to starring in the show, you predominantly worked in theatre. Stepping from the stage into the TV set, what were the biggest adjustments that you had to do as an actor?

 Coming from the theatre world, I think that the biggest thing for me has been learning to surrender control. In theatre, the actor is so much more in charge of storytelling  - you have an audience in the palm of your hand, and if the writing is good, you are exposing people to the best and worst days of somebody’s life. In TV, the story is told by the editors, the network, the studio and executives. And I feel very lucky that our show has been cared for and crafted so well!

Vest Louis Vuitton, pants & shoes Loewe

Do you have a dream role or play to be a part of?

No. I think every actor wants to play Hamlet at some point, and then you either continue to want to play Hamlet or decide that it's never going to happen, or decide that you actually don't want to play Hamlet. I feel like I've been so lucky in the last 10 years, doing plays on Broadway and off-Broadway, as well with the roles that I've had in film and TV, to be able to work on new material. So I would love to believe that the part that I'm dying to play hasn't been written yet. There's nothing more satisfying than working on a new thing because you get to assume so much about that character that nobody else can. So no, I don’t want to play Hamlet.

Full look Kenzo

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Discover the full story in our upcoming SS23 WILDSIDE Issue

Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by JJ Geiger

Fashion by Haley Tju

Grooming by Dustin Von Osborne

Stylist’s assistant Eric Osovsky

PORTRAYING THE PAIN BEHIND PRIVILEGE

For Jack Farthing, starring in HBO and BBC’s new show Rain Dogs has been an exercise in exploring the nuances of entitlement. In Cash Carraway’s darkly funny series shining a light on modern class and sex inequalities, the British actor takes on the role of Selby - a self-proclaimed “classical homosexual’ with a hefty allowance (and a criminal record), who after a brief stint in prison comes back into the lives of his best friend Costello and her daughter to rescue them after they become homeless. Despite many advantages and a seemingly endless safety net, Selby is a deeply unhappy person whose loneliness leads him to addiction and violent outbursts - risking losing the two people that he cares about the most.  Shortly after the show’s premiere, we spoke to Jack about Selby’s timeless charisma, the show’s depiction of a non-conventional family dynamic and the joy of acting with his co-star, Daisy May Cooper.

Left Top & blazer AMI Paris, pants Wooyoungmi, necklace Sweet Lime Juice

Right Full look Alexander McQueen

Why did you want to be a part of this project? What about Cash Carraway’s writing and vision spoke to you?

 A lot of things! It’s the kind of writing that leaps off the page – the way it feels when you watch the show is definitely similar to how you feel when you read the scripts. It feels uniquely alive and alight, raw, truthful and confrontational in a really exciting, creative way. She writes these big characters that feel like mountains to climb for an actor.

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Your character, Selby, is certainly larger than life. How did you approach the process of building him?

 Cash was very specific in the script – she introduces characters in a very chosen way. The first description of Selby said that he’s a “boarding school boy educated on Bret Easton Ellis and Jean-Luc Godard.” That gives you immediately this particular picture of the person and you have three points of reference as to who he might be. Then, along the way, there are just so many more breadcrumbs revealed. I loved the idea that he was timeless in comparison to Costello [the character played by Daisy May Cooper], who feels very much located in London of today. Selby has always felt to me like he’s somewhere else, like he’s from another time. So I looked back a lot to old charismatic movie stars and that kind of extravagant danger that people like, for example, young Peter O’Toole had.

Left Shirt, jeans & coat Fendi, shoes Andersson Bell 

Right Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

 

Selby is in a very privileged position – no matter how recklessly he acts, he always has a safety net there waiting for him. What did you find most interesting about exploring this situation?

 Materially, he’s very safe, but emotionally, he’s in great danger. He’s been given everything and nothing by his parents. He’s been given this allowance to leave his mom alone, she doesn’t want anything to do with him. So what was the most interesting for me was the fact that it’s a stereotype that’s broken down. He’s absolutely privileged, no doubt about it. But then you look into what privilege means in his particular circumstance and you see that there’s so much more going on and that he’s as bereft as he’s privileged. He has no idea how to love, he’s dealing with addiction. He’s got all sorts of demons that he’s fighting. In the same way that Costello is not just a single mom living below the poverty line – she’s the most unique and wide-ranging character.

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Right Full look Versace

 

What do you think is at the basis of this desire that Costello and Selby have to create a family together?

 They’re somehow cosmically aligned. They are from such different walks of life, they meet at university, they fall in platonic love with each other and they just see each other so clearly. They share a cruel outlook on the world. They share their loneliness. But they come together and form an absolute cosmic attachment that is so intense that it’s toxic. From Selby’s perspective, he needs her so much that he hates her, his dependency becomes like a wound. He’s fighting not to love her in the way that he does because it’s controlling his life, but she is everything. She and Iris are his entire world. It’s an incredibly complicated and thorny thing that I don’t think either of them really understands. They just feel it.

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Right Full look Louis Vuitton

 

Daisy May Cooper is such a force in the show. What was it like to get to share this experience with her?

 She’s a beautiful person to be with, but also a beautiful person to work with. I think we found really good professional chemistry and brought the right things out of each other. The show goes into some pretty dark and vulnerable places and I think it would be very hard to do it with someone who wasn’t looking after you. And so I hope that we both offered that to each other – I certainly feel like she did to me. She also just leads with humour – whatever the scene is, you know that there’s going to be joy and light with her. She doesn’t take herself seriously but she takes the work very seriously. I think what’s wonderful about Daisy in this show is that you are really seeing something different  – of course, you’re seeing the incredible comedy expertise that she’s known for, but you’re also seeing something that is so spectacularly vulnerable. I think she’s fabulous in it. And I think that people who think they know Daisy as a performer will be surprised and delighted by what she’s doing on screen.

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Right Top, blazer, shoes AMI Paris, pants Wooyoungmi, necklace Sweet Lime Juice

 

The show presents a refreshing take on working-class stories - what to you makes it different from the way these experiences tend to be depicted on screen?

 Something that Cash has said from the beginning is that she wanted this story to not be told with pity, but rather with joy and with a kind of punk and loud spirit to it. And I think the creators have really succeeded in bringing that. It’s also confrontational – I hope that people will have conflicting feelings when they watch it because that’s entirely the point. You are entertained and you are made to laugh, but you are also being presented with a very stark truth that is absolutely real. 

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Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Diego Hernández

Fashion by Steven Huang

Casting by Imagemachine CS

Grooming by Petra Sellge at The Wall Group

Stylist’s assistant Damini Rehal

FAST LANE

It’s almost the end of the road in Fast X, the tenth film in the Fast & Furious saga, one of Hollywood’s most popular global movie franchises that’s all about family, street racing and the occasional heist. Fast X is confirmed to be the first of the final two road trips, revving up more full-throttle action and emotion when it hits cinemas in May. Reprising his role as fan favourite Han Lue, is American Korean actor Sung Kang, and we caught up with him over zoom (along with his two super cute dogs), to talk new cast members, stunts, and the funny places fans pop up to share their love of cars with him.

Full look Louis Vuitton

So Fast X, the tenth film is sure to be this summer’s Blockbuster movie. Without any spoilers, what are you most excited for people and the diehard fans to see with this penultimate instalment?

A couple of things really. One is that we’re making this film more grounded and more car centric, so I know the original fans will be happy with the action sequences as they’re now more stars of the film than they used to be. The second is we just have new and wonderful cast members, with Jason Momoa and Brie Larson, so the world of the fast family is expanding and I’m very excited about it all!

This film is shot in so many great new places and has a 20-plus-year story arc to conclude. Given that these films have evolved the way they have in terms of stunts and locations and the cast, does anything still surprise you when you read a script?

The stunts always surprise me, because there is such an amount of research that goes into blowing up a bridge or racing down the side of a dam, or going into space, and how to translate that on film and connect to the story. Even though the scenes in this film are more grounded, they still become more fantastical with each movie that comes out, and it merits it to a degree, because of the cast that are blessing us with their contribution.

What also surprises me, is that in the early days there was a slight prejudice that Fast & Furious was just a B-action flick, and it didn’t merit big thespians on board. But today, it’s become part of popular culture and so many generations have grown up with the films and in time, if it ages properly, it will transcend the initial stereotypes. I heard through the grapevine that Helen Mirren’s grandkids are huge fans of the franchise, and she’s part of this movie along with other Oscar winners, and that’s amazing, from where we’ve come from. It blows my mind to see all these thespians on sets, and that we’re in this league of actors. Aside from being part of all the action, as an actor it’s a big deal for me to be rubbing shoulders with people who are so good at their craft.

Left Shirt Goodfight, pants Versace, shoes Kenzo

Right Top, sunglasses & jewelry Versace, pants Giorgio Armani

You mention that things will be more grounded in this film, and this is a franchise that lives and dies on its fantastic action set pieces and the cars obviously.  I read that this one will also return to its street racing roots. Can you give us a teaser of any specific stunt moments we can look forward to?

Well Han is drifting through the streets of Rome and doing some awesome car stunts, so for my part, it’s going to be pretty spectacular!

Ok, so no spoilers, but it appears as though fans will get a resolution to the storyline between Han and Deckard Shaw, as in the movie trailer you look like you’re both teaming up.  Are the pair putting their differences aside because you’ve previously described your character as a "lover... not a fighter”?

You’ll have to see, I can’t give that away yet!! We did get together and we do discuss something…. haha!

So, what’s your favourite part about playing Han then?

The whole ethos of what Han is and what he represents. First and foremost, it’s being part of the FAST family outside of the movie, and when you step back, to see you are part of a franchise that’s been speeding along after two decades. To realise you’re a part of this Hollywood legacy, it’s amazing.

Coat Louis Vuitton, shirt & gloves Kenzo, pants & shoes Giorgio Armani, sunglasses Gentle Monster

You mention the family, which as you said has expanded with this movie. What do you think it is about these car obsessives that makes them role models for audiences, who might see themselves in those characters?

Well Han drives cool cars and does cool things, but he also maybe represents their face, their cadence, their life ideology on screen, and I get to be someone’s brother or friend or ideal boyfriend, and that’s pretty special, to be able to walk in his shoes outside the movie. Because of Han and Fast & Furious, I’ve been given this symbolic garage key to everyone’s garage, and that doesn’t just represent the physical car in the garage, but their life, their story, their secrets, passions, dreams, and it’s a true honour.

Do you get lots of people wanting to share their passions for cars with you? Is there a favourite fan encounter?

You know, I would love to take someone with me on my daily stroll and see the interactions I have with folks that are into cars. Folks that have grown up with this passion for automobiles, whether it be a super car, or exotic car or the family car that they took trips with their father and mother in. They often stop me and tell me, ‘Hey, I had this old classic car and my dad and grandfather worked on it together and we also put a turbo on it.’ I can be in a bodega and suddenly have a conversation with someone about cars and be able to connect on a simple level which is not from fan to celebrity, but just as fellow automobile enthusiasts.

I can set a tone and pass forward a positive experience, or be a douchebag and be like, ‘Yeah whatever, that’s nice for you, but I gotta go.’ It’s a reminder of the opportunity to connect with people globally, and even sometimes in the most inconvenient places like the bathroom!

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No way?

Oh yeah, I’ll be in the stall, and this guy will be like, ‘Oh hey, I have an old Datsun,’ haha!

Tell me about your own car memories, and what was the first car you owned?

I have so many amazing car memories, and some of my most important memories as a young man, were when I was around cars. My father gave me the family car as a gift for my 16th birthday, and I was so excited, bragging to all my friends that I’m going to start cruising with these guys. Then on my birthday, I asked my dad for the keys, and he said, ‘It’s your car son, but do you have insurance?’ I didn’t even know what it was! So, the reality of having that dream burst like that was hard, but now I recall it as him teaching me a lesson about the importance of needing insurance and being responsible.

Also, I have memories of experiences with my best friend’s first beetle bug Volkswagen, that was a piece of junk that he inherited, and we worked on it, so we could take a road trip together. Just that bond and the friendship and the challenges of rebuilding a car and then the trip itself, what an amazing memory to have, that shared experience around a car. It’s in my novel of amazing life experiences as a young person.

Right Coat Louis Vuitton, shirt & gloves Kenzo, pants & shoes Giorgio Armani, sunglasses Gentle Monster

Left Top, sunglasses & jewelry Versace, pants Giorgio Armani

I bet you were listening to some epic tunes on that road trip too, any that bring back the emotion and nostalgia for those days?

Yes, this obscure song called ‘Friends’ by UTFO. We would put it in the cassette player and just play it on repeat and sing along to it! Every time I think of my friends or a road trip, that song comes into my head.

Once Fast & Furious comes to the end of the road, what would you love to do next, is there a dream project or actors you would love to work with?

Gary Oldman, I would love to go head-to-head with him on screen. I would also like to enter the comedy world, there’s something to be said about being on set where the endorphins are going because everyone’s getting a good chuckle!  Will Ferrell is also someone I would love to come over to the Fast &Furious world, he would be a great villain! Long last brother of Dom, haha!

I love acting, but I would love to have more opportunities to expand my creative world, and maybe those opportunities I seek are not available for someone who looks like me at this current time. So instead of taking a backseat approach and blaming the status quo, the only true thing I can control is being proactive. That’s why I directed my first feature which I’m really excited about and I’m currently working on another one, and I’ve been in town pitching the story and the team I’ve assembled. I’ve been blessed to work with so many amazing crew members and actors and the unsung heroes in our business, that are the foundation of a great movie and why our industry is so great. Now I would like to take those learning experiences and share them with other folks. As a director I also have more control of the project, and the tone and ethos that you set on set.

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You’ve just inspired everyone championing inclusivity and representation. As an Asian-American actor and role model for so many, how important has the storytelling been to you in the projects you’ve worked on, to reinforce that sense of belonging and pride in your identity?

I didn’t really know what to do with being someone who is of any type of influence or be able to represent my heritage and my face, and for my people to look at me and see themselves and want to emulate the values they see on screen. I didn’t know what the purpose was of that, or why I should be responsible for that. But now as I get older, one’s purpose and priority changes and I have to ask myself, is my legacy just doing a bunch of movies for my resume? Or is my legacy those quiet individual moments when I do meet people in passing, and I get to talk to them on a human level, and represent a person of colour, my family name, the husband, friend or colleague I want to be, the person that I want to be? I hope I can influence and leave a positive legacy for this world. It’s an honour and every day I feel like I’m going to fail, so it forces and urges me to better myself every day.

Finally, I must ask you about those two cute fluffy friends in the background on our zoom today, you love dogs as much as me then?

Yes!! I have three-year-old Deh-ji which means pig in Korean, he’s a golden doodle and then we have the little guy, Kool-off, he’s the baby. They’re always next to me when I’m zooming on camera, and they even have a car dog bed, so they’re part of the FAST family too!

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Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Shane McCauley

Fashion by Nico Amarca

Hair /Grooming by Candice Birns

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Photographer’s assistant Carter Whitaker

LEADING MAN

Imagine if Netflix’s Regency-era, bodice ripping, ballgowns to die for, thirsty pearl-clutching hit show, Bridgerton, had a spin-off… well it does! Queen Charlotte, created by Shonda Rhimes, is a love story for the ages, whisking us back to the very start of the young Queen's rise to power and her marriage to King George, revealing the sparks, the secrets of the past and how their betrothal caused a societal shift.

British actor Corey Mylchreest plays the dishy young King George in this latest genre-busting period romance, set against a backdrop of decadent sets, lavish locations and misty landscapes to captivate us, just like the world of the Ton. We caught up with Mylchreest, who previously featured in 2021's short drama Mars and appeared as Adonis in Netflix’s The Sandman in 2022, to chat about dancing in stockings and heels in one of the hottest shows of the season, which will surely crown him as the next leading man we’ll be swooning over.

Left Sweater Givenchy, pants MSGM, necklace Sweetlimejuice & shoes Versace

Right Full look Hermès

Let’s first say, dishy young George is receiving quite a bit of attention in all the hysteria around this new series, Queen Charlotte. No pressure then?

I know!! Although that pressure came pretty late doors to be honest, as Bridgerton had passed me by somehow, I never watched it. But when I did realise how behemoth the universe of Bridgerton is, I was already on the job with this series, so it was a bit of a wakeup call!

It’s a love story at its heart, and we get a rare insight into the lives of Ton’s super elite regal lovers. You and India Amarteifio, [who plays the young Queen Charlotte] did a chemistry read before filming. Any sizzling secrets on how to build that on-screen spark?

Well, the intimacy coordinators on the show, (Lucy Fennell and Lizzy Talbot) made sure the intimacy scenes were choreographed so beautifully and so safely, and there were as few people on set as could be. Yet still, I remember feeling completely out of body, and so vulnerable, because it’s embarrassing getting your kit off in front of people you don’t know. But by the time we did the last intimate scene, India and I trusted each other so much, because not only had we done these semi-awkward scenes, but by then we had also cried in front of each other, and filmed incredibly vulnerable moments, and also talked about the stresses of the job off-camera. So, I think trust is the most important thing, and friendship definitely helps too.

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We must talk obviously about the many pearl-clutching moments in Bridgerton. Will this prequel deliver the same thirsty moments for fans?

Yes! But I would say what’s beautiful about this series is that there’s not one intimate scene where it feels like it’s just thrown in. They all reveal something about the character, either George or Charlotte, or about the story, or their reaction to something that’s happened. I think it’s always progressing the story onwards and it’s like that in terms of a fight scene, or dance choreography, it’s always a duologue without any dialogue. This series goes deeper into character and a deeper landscape.

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Right Vest AMI Paris, shirt Miu Miu, pants Ferragamo & shoes Versace 

That depth of narrative is crucial because we don’t really know much about King George from the original Bridgerton series, aside from his illness, which is well documented in history. Can you tease us with a taste of what’s to come for the young monarch?

I guess very simply, George is a very private person, but he’s also a loving, caring and gentle person, with hobbies that he dives into, whether it’s science or agriculture or farming, anything he can get his hands on and be physical with that escapes this duty to the crown. You see the crippling beginnings of this affliction that he’s victim to, and he suffers daily from this crushing despair at the hands of what he’s dealing with. What we see in the show, is when you have those inner demons, and you love someone utterly, it forces you to look in the mirror and see what you’ve been hiding from, and fight them head on, to open up and let someone in entirely. Through that overcoming, we start to see the love story between George and Charlotte really flourish.

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Right Full look Dior Men

So how did you draw inspiration and prepare for the role?

I started with research and dove straight into the book by Andrew Roberts about George, which is the first biography to be published after 2015, when the Royal libraires in the UK released 20,000 pages of George III’s personal journals and letters. They were a revelation in terms of finding out about the man that he was, and I listened to lots of podcasts and watched some of the other depictions. I would say the script is also a brilliant help because it was clear we were not making a historical documentary, and I really fell in love with the guy that I was reading about, and I wanted to honour him in moments that I could. As an actor it’s also about imaginative placement and putting yourself in that person’s shoes, and spending a day in that life, and finding a grounding of understanding within myself and then imaginatively pushing that boundary until I feel like I’m his shoes.

Left Sweater Givenchy & necklace Sweetlimejuice

Right Coat Andersson Bell, shirt Wood Wood, pants Ferragamo & shoes AMI Paris 

It helps working alongside such a great ensemble cast too. What’s been your favourite thing about that experience?

I’m really proud of my work in this show, but to be honest, there wasn’t a day where I didn’t feel a healthy jealousy! You know, watching the others and thinking, ‘wow, you are just absolutely incredible’, and that’s now something I want to grow towards. I felt that about the friends I made, like India and Sam Clemmett (who plays young Brimsley) and Freddie Dennis, who now lives across the hall from me, who plays Reynolds. Having watched it too, Michelle Fairley is phenomenal, and I was a huge fan of hers beforehand. I was really floored by everyone’s performances on a daily basis, and it was some of the best months of my life.

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What about being on those fabulous sets and locations, it must have been quite exciting to see them all. Did you have a favourite?

Absolutely, every single day, whether it was on location or one of the sets, the attention to detail and the props and the set design were just incredible. Honestly, 95% of our jobs as actors were done, because if you stick any Joe Bloggs in those brilliant sets with those props, anyone will have enough imagination to believe that they’re really there in that moment.

Towards the end of filming, we had just done a scene in a new set, and I walked past the Observatory, and it was being demolished, and it was so palpable, as I had scenes in there where I had screamed and cried and laughed, and it was like saying goodbye to a home almost. Location-wise it has to be Blenheim Palace, my first day shooting and last shots were there, and it was just beautiful.

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I imagine wearing full Regency costume helped inform your performance as George too, with that physical feeling of being in his shoes.

It was amazing and at times uncomfortable too, as I’m not used to wearing heels or stockings! But then George has a very complicated relationship with duty, and there is a crushing sense of pressure there, and for him, those clothes represent that, they are a lived-in, tangible, sense of feeling of that pressure. So, if for a moment, me, as the actor, says ‘oh I feel uncomfortable’, then fricking brilliant, lean into that, and accept that feeling, because George had that relationship too.

Not just uncomfortable to wear, but also completely useless for the modern day, as there’s nowhere to put an iPhone in those high-waisters…

No there is not, ha-ha! It actually became really annoying, because I always listen to music before takes, and I would have to find somewhere to throw my headphones and phone and hope that I didn’t break it against those Regency cobbles!

What tunes were you listening to in between takes then?

The theme to Succession, ‘Adagio in C Minor’, which is a variation on a theme, without drums or piano. I remember watching the series, and in one shot which I paused, there was this frame of Jeremy Strong, who played Kendall Roy, and I just looked at him and thought, ‘that is George’. That resignation to the shame and crushing, oppressive power of duty and your bloodline and your role, and he just looked destroyed. I actually printed that picture off and put it on my character book. So, I would listen to that every day as I put on George’s ring, which is on his pinkie finger on his left hand.

Left Vest AMI Paris, shirt Miu Miu, pants Ferragamo

Right Hoodie Bluemarble, jacket Solid Men, denim Calvin Klein

Did you have to learn any new skills for this series too, such as how to dance in stocking and heels, for one of those posh balls?

I’m not a dancer, and that’s very obvious on screen, but that’s made even more clear by how beautiful a dancer India is! Our choreographer, Jack Murphy, was brilliant though, and made sure every dance scene progressed a story, so the character had a relationship with every single moment and mood. I would say in terms of skills, the most fun thing to learn was how to make the sound that makes a horse stand up! I got to work with this horse called Mufasa, which is a pretty cool name, who in one scene, has collapsed and is tangled in rope. The horse rangers were fun to work with too. George loved horses and animals, so again, everything he loved, I really through myself into.

Left Coat Andersson Bell, shirt Wood Wood, pants Ferragamo & shoes AMI Paris 

Right Full look Hermès

So, you’ve gone from doing dark fantasy in The Sandman to a fancy period drama. What’s next, what would be the dream role with a dream director?

Anything with Christopher Nolan, he was a god for me growing up, and the worlds he creates really push the boundaries of our imagination. They’re not necessarily always the real world, but at the same time, in all the characters and the humanity, there’s no sacrifice of the study of the interpersonal, and the work between people and character. It’s all truth, studied and so subtle and nuanced, and yet huge and it all exists in this world which almost pushes into fantasy.

I was into fantasy and sci-fi growing up, like Star Wars, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. I’m a bit of a nerd, and as a kid, they were the things that pushed my imagination, and made me wish I was in that world. For me, Nolan activates all my childhood glee and neurological study and it’s the perfect balance.

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Emilia Staugaard

Fashion by Steven Huang

Casting by Imagemachine CS

Grooming by Josh Knight at Caren using Typology for skin and Sam Mcknight for hair

Fashion assistant Amelia Cappi

COMING FROM THE PLACE OF KINDNESS

Phil Dunster says that one of the greatest things about his series Ted Lasso is its depiction of protagonists that are striving to be better versions of themselves. “It’s a show where characters are given the opportunity to be kind,” he explains. “And whilst they don’t choose it every time, I think it’s an oddly novel thing to see on screen.” In the Apple TV hit, the British actor takes on the role of Jamie — a top player for the fictional AFC Richmond — whose laddiest of lads demeanour and hilarious one-liners won him a legion of fans across the globe. We caught up with Phil to chat about the joys of playing the Tartt, his love for football (he’s a Wimbledon supporter for life) and a top moment from his recent visit to The White House.

Shirt Johnlawrencesullivan, pants & shoes Dunhill 

Ted Lasso has been such a global phenomenon over the past three years. Why, in your view, the series has resonated so greatly with the audiences?

People just love a good tash, I guess? One of the things I reckon it’s down to is people seeing a leader who leads by empowering rather than restricting those around him. Also, it’s a show where characters are given the opportunity to be kind, and whilst they don’t choose it every time, I think it’s an oddly novel thing to see on screen - people striving to be kinder versions of themselves.

Left Full look Miu Miu

Left Vest Ami Paris

Your character, Jamie, is going through a really big journey on the show - as an actor, what have been the biggest joys of portraying his arc?

Definitely the moments where, before, Jamie would have acted out of fear, greed or shame I got to play with the moments where the (BRILLIANT) writers showed him acting from a place of accountability, kindness or support. But the fun thing is that he doesn't always choose the ‘nicest’ path. He would still revert back to his old ways at times and that made him feel like a real boy.

Left Top & jacket Wooyoungmi, pants Johnlawrencesullivan, boots Andersson Bell 

Right jacket Ferragamo

And what have been the biggest challenges with playing him?

I think the fact that he’s really cool, and I’m not being TOTALLY self-effacing here. He’s from a completely different world from me and grew up with totally different pressures. I wanted to do his personal history justice and not paint with broad brush strokes, and to be honest, it was only really until season 3 that I found I could trust my instincts with him more and more. It took a while for that to become more ingrained in how I play him. But yeah, he dresses in cool clothes and drives cool cars.

Full look Versace

You said recently that being on the show has strengthened your already big love for football - what about this sport speaks to you? Which team are you supporting?

AFC Wimbledon. I support them because they’re “By faaar the greatest team the world has ever seen.” I mean the football they play is pretty shoddy at the minute but I just love the club… The long-form stories in football is what makes it so exciting and lovable. The underdogs, the rivals, the Davids vs. Goliaths… It’s also the variables that mean that we tune in week after week. The fact that football is totally unpredictable is what makes it so enjoyable.

 

You also said that you have to thank the show editors a lot for making you seem like a good player. That said, is there a football skill that you’re able to do that you’re pretty proud of?

I learned how to flip-flap which is a great move made famous by Ronaldinho (Marcus Rashford likes to use it these days too).

Left Vest Ami Paris, pants Johnlawrencesullivan, boots Andersson Bell 

Right Full Kenzo, necklace Sweetlimejuice

It’s hard not to notice that you and Brett Goldstein have a great bond both as your characters and off-camera. What do you love about Brett - why is he a great person to work with and a great pal?

He’s great to work with because he always acting in service of the scene. He’ll never try and ‘win the scene’ like some actors can do. He’s very giving. Both as a fellow actor and a lover.

Left Jacket Ferragamo

Right Top & jacket Wooyoungmi, pants Johnlawrencesullivan, boots Andersson Bell 

I saw that you recently visited The White House with the cast. What are some of the moments from that day that you will remember forever? 

My favourite moment was probably when we were saying goodbye to the President and Kola Bokinni said, “Yeah, yeah - cheers,” and the look of realization that washed over his face. He turned to me and said “Bruv… I just said cheers to the president.” Looool!

Left Top & jacket Wooyoungmi, pants Johnlawrencesullivan, boots Andersson Bell 

Right Full look Louis Vuitton

Did you pick up any souvenirs from your visit? 

They very kindly gave us all “Biscuits with the Boss” stamped with the Presidential seal… That was pretty cool.


Who was someone that you were most excited to learn that they were a fan of the show?

I’m a big old fan of Paul Walter Hauser and I saw him at a shindig not long ago and he said, “I hear we’re fans of one another’s work.” I squealed.

Full look Kenzo

Having this great experience with Ted Lasso, what are some roles that you would love to do next? 

I think as an actor you want to have variety at the end of the day and so it’s really any project with a great script, great director, great cast etc… I’m working on the next series of Surface on Apple TV which I’m very excited about. The part is very different from Jamie which will be a lovely challenge… That being said, I’ll always have such a huge place in my heart for the Tartt.

…

Interview by Martin Onufrowicz

Photography by Bruno McGuffie

Fashion by Steven Huang

Grooming by Brady Lea using Dr. Barbara Sturm for skin and Hair by Sam McKnight

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Set by Thomas Phillips - Everything Now Design

Photographer’s assistant Bella Kemp

Stylist’s assistant Damini Rehal

FLOWER POWER

Releasing music under the name Flowerovlove, London-based artist Joyce Cisse has been gifting us the kind of lyrics that make us realise the best love affair you’ll ever have, is with yourself.

The 17-year-old singer radiates an admirable confidence and kindness, with good vibes and catchy tunes that manifest self-love, gratitude, and positivity, with a gentle dusting of nostalgia. Already blossoming as Radio 1’s Future Artist of The Month and one of VEVO and Amazon Music’s Artists to Watch for 2023, her debut EP Think Flower fast became a fan-favourite, along with releases such as Malibu and Will We Ever Get This Right?

Now the singer-songwriter has blessed us with another track to get hooked on, I love This Song,

celebrating dancing around our rooms and happy days spent in the sun, reminding us that we all deserve to feel good.

Top & skirt Ann Demeulemeester, earrings Simone Rocha, nail ring Kod Kuce, necklace Sweetlimejuice

It’s so nice to catch up with you Joyce! How does it feel to have music out there in the world?

Great to chat to you too! Well, it’s always been a dream of mine to create music, somehow, and put it out there, so it feels great that people are listening to it and love it, and they come up to me in the street and tell me that too. I prefer personal interaction rather than on social media because you can comprehend that it’s all real then, and not just happening through a phone. I think about the fans all the time when I’m making music too, and what they’ve said to me, ‘will they like this’, or ‘what do they want to hear’ and ‘how is this going to make them feel?’.

So, what kind of music were you into growing up, and when did you think, I want to put out my own stuff?

I was born the year that YouTube was founded, so I didn’t really buy music, I watched and listened to music on that platform instead, and the first track I remember really being into was Justin Bieber’s Baby. I thought he was so cute with his little haircut, and I had the biggest crush on him! I also had One Direction on repeat too, and I was so young and just enjoying the music and how it made me feel. But fast forward a few years later, and I knew then that I wanted to do it myself for real.

When was the first time you shared your music with anybody and how did it all progress from there?

It was in 2020, when I put out the song Kiss and Chase which I wrote with my brother in our garage, and it was just loads of fun, so I released it. But then I ended up doing some modelling for a year, which I didn’t enjoy too much, so I started releasing more music again, and here I am! I’ve been mainly using TikTok and Reels to help build my audience.

Full look Miu Miu, necklace D'heygere 

Why did you choose the name flowerovlove, what’s the story behind it?

It was originally my Instagram handle, and everyone knew me as flowerovlove, so I just kept that rather than using my real name, Joyce. I like to compare people to flowers, so the name represents how people can grow and blossom too.

What gets you in the mood to write, who or what do you look to for inspiration? 

Sometimes it just comes when I’m outside and I’ll think of a melody and then record it on a voice note. It’s never the same process, it depends on how I feel, and stuff just comes to me randomly. If I’m in the studio though, and I’ve saved up some inspirations and I’ve got to write, then I’ll switch it on and make sure I don’t leave without a finished song.

Full look Simone Rocha

You’re a Gen Z champion, as your lyrics really do focus on self-love and manifesting positive vibes. What are you hoping your peers and younger listeners feel when they listen to your music, and take away from it?

I want people to feel like they can do, be or have anything they want, and to fall in love with themselves through my music, because the lyrics and sounds help them feel good about themselves. It’s important because I took time and space during the Covid quarantine to figure out who I am, and sometimes it’s easy to lose sense of that. I found that I’m someone who wants to be happy and bring sunshine into a room, so that’s what I do!

Right now, females are dominating the industry across the board and there’s a positive sisterhood between you all which is great. Why do you think that is?

I think with female artists and Gen-Z, it’s all about having positive competition you know, win, or lose, you can have fun and enjoy it and you can make a choice to feel good in what you do, and do it with a positive attitude. That’s what I feel a lot of female artists are doing now.

Full look Valentino, tights Falke

So, let’s talk about the latest single, Love You, it’s so catchy! Tell me more about the story behind the song and the brilliant video too, which you directed yourself?

It’s one of my favourite songs I’ve ever written, and usually when I come up with ideas for my videos, I just listen to the song and close my eyes, and whatever I see is what I want the visual to be. I like the message of me performing for myself and just devoting love to myself because when young girls see it, they’ll see it’s important to love themselves too. I find it boring when you see the videos of the girl singing about the guy she loves, why not give that love to myself… you know?!

The heart-shaped mirror covered in post it notes with positivity messages on them is a great little visual…

It was inspired by my own mirror at home, which is the same with post it notes around it too, so I wanted that in the video, because it’s all about the little details, and what they mean.

Left Full look Ferragamo, ring Sweetlimejuice

Right Full look Simone Rocha

It’s going to be one of those songs that gets the fans singing along! You’ve been performing to audiences live. How has it been seeing the reactions up close?

I love it and I know the fans are always going to go crazy which excites me all the time! I love the energy and I feel like we’re all friends, like I know everyone already and they know me too.

When I perform Will We Ever Get This Right, which is really pop, as soon as the chorus comes up, I let the audience sing it for me.

Left Full look Simone Rocha

Right Full look Christopher Kane

Do you have a dream collab? 

Harry Styles!

He’s also a fashion influencer, and you’re on everyone’s style radar too. Is fashion a big part of your life, and is it always changing?

Yes, as I’ve got older my style has changed. When I was 15 years old, I started looking at street style and was also inspired by my brother’s classic style because he used to be a tailor, very dapper and suited and booted! So that’s when I got into wearing suits with big baggy pants and more recently, I’ve got into skirts and dresses too.

Full look Ferragamo, ring Sweetlimejuice

How would you describe your style in three words?

Chic, colourful and elegant.

Spring fashion is in full bloom, as are the flowers, and with your love of nature, what flower are you?

A Gazania, it’s an African daisy, I love them because they’re bright yellow and orange, and just like me, they’re always beaming bright.

Well, your future is beaming bright ahead of you too. What kind of imprint would you like to make? 

I’m fuelled on love, and I know that I can achieve everything I want to achieve, and there’s no need to stop if you love what you’re doing, and I have such a passion for music. I also want to be thought of as a musician who can show and represent my culture as a successful black female pop star, and show young women that they can go for it, and if they see me do it, they can do it too.

Top & skirt Ann Demeulemeester, earrings Simone Rocha, nail ring Kod Kuce, necklace Sweetlimejuice

…

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Amberderrick

Fashion by Steven Huang

Make-Up by Yoi Wan

Hair by Linus Johansson

Produced by Janis Yang

Photographer’s assistants Yihang & Taisiia Ivanova

Stylist’s assistants Nathan Fox & Tamryn Charteris 

OTHERWORLDLY JOURNEY

WITH his last MOVIE, THE SON, 20-YEAR-OLD ACTOR ZEN MCGRATH WILL CONTINUE HIS RISE AS ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING ACTORS HAILING FROM HIS NATIVE AUSTRALIA. IN THE FILM DIRECTED BY FLORIAN ZELLER, WHICH TACKLES ONE FAMILY’S TURBULENT DYNAMIC, MCGRATH PLAYS SEVENTEEN-YEAR-OLD NICHOLAS, DEALING WITH CONTINUED FEELINGS OF ABANDONMENT AND NEGLECT A FEW YEARS ON FROM HIS PARENTS’ DIVORCE.
THE FILM BRINGS US CLOSER TO THIS YOUNG TALENT, FULL OF CHARISMA AND PASSION FOR HIS CRAFT, MARKING HIS SECOND BIG SCREEN OUTING SINCE THE 2014 DRAMA MOVIE, ALOFT, IN WHICH HE STARRED ON SCREEN ALONGSIDE HIS YOUNGER BROTHER WINTA. HERE HE TALKS TO US ABOUT HEROES, STYLE AND SCIENCE.

Full look Solid Homme

Do you have any Australian acting heroes who have influenced you in your own work?

Well, I think I'd get in trouble If I didn't say Hugh Jackman! All jokes aside, he is the most wonderful human being and inspires me every day, not only in his craft and body of work, but in how he remains generous and humble towards everyone he meets. It excites me to see how many Australian actors/actresses have become so prominent in this industry, that there are opportunities in productions for us far away Aussies.

 

From your first auditions, have you developed more confidence on screen, or found a deeper love for the craft and storytelling?

I've always felt lucky because I was able to grow up on sets of films that my older brother worked on such as Dark Shadows or Lincoln. I believe this made me more comfortable being in those types of high-pressure environments. As I've progressed, I've definitely developed a deeper love for storytelling. This is compounded by the fact that I have other passions in the same industry. Through acting, I discovered other things I enjoyed such as making my own films, or learning how to use VFX programs, which all filter back to a wider storytelling passion.

Your role as Nicholas in The Son is really a breakout moment for you. When you read the script for the first time, were you hooked in from the beginning?

Absolutely, I remember the first time I read the lines for the self-tape audition. I felt a frog in my throat, especially when reading the scene where Nicholas confesses to his mother that he is in constant pain. There was an emotional resonance I felt early on in the auditioning process that made me feel confident and comfortable with the role. Getting to read the whole script before the call back only reinforced that feeling. 

Left Top and pants Prada, jewellery Emanuele Bicocchi

Right Jacket Solid Homme

How did you prepare for the emotional intensity of playing someone with clinical depression day after day?

When I was cast, we had approximately three months before we started shooting. Being cast over zoom was a very surreal experience, as I didn't meet anyone in person who was involved in the project until a week or so before the shoot. Preparation was very much virtual out of necessity because of COVID. I began with accent training several times a week and I would have a weekly meeting with Florian over Zoom to have conversations about Nicholas. I think having in-depth conversations about the subject matter with everyone around me, including my friends and crew, was the most helpful thing because you never know where the most useful bit of information might come from. It seemed like everyone involved either went through their own version of Nicholas or knew someone close to them who had suffered.

It must have been quite challenging, as it focuses heavily on the importance of male mental health…

Leading up to the shoot, I remember the excitement of the role being replaced by an immense sense of duty to embody the mental health topic, particularly male mental health where men are more closed off and less willing to share when something is wrong. The disconnect between Peter [Hugh Jackman] and Nicholas, and not being able to tell what’s causing Nicholas’ pain, begins to make more sense once we see how Nicholas’ grandfather [Anthony Hopkins] treats Peter. You realise it’s a generational trauma with Anthony telling his son Peter to "just f***ing get over it," highlighting how Peter subconsciously treats Nicholas.

Left Shirt and suit Alexander McQueen, jewellery Emanuele Bicocchi

Right Shirt and pants Solid Homme, shoes and socks stylist’s own, jewellery Emanuele Bicocchi

How did you remove yourself from that headspace after shooting or between takes?

For how dark the subject matter of the film was, there was a lot of fun in between takes. I think Hugh and I messed around the most! We liked the scene where we were throwing cereal at one another because with each take, we tried to one-up each other. Starting with maybe one flake of cereal and ending up throwing handfuls, to the detriment of the props department who had to clean up every time! I also loved to inspect all the props such as the manufactured family photos, Nicholas's videogames, and model kits, some of which I was able to keep after filming wrapped.

I remember trying to keep my time off work very light-hearted, occupying myself with activities such as watching The Office (American) or playing video games online with my friends back home. There were definitely times when it was hard to not be in the moment, but I tried reminding myself (as cliche as it sounds) that it wasn't about me, and that I had a responsibility to do my absolute best to authentically portray the widespread issue of depression and/or anxiety.

Do you listen to music to help inform a character, and do you make playlists?

Despite enjoying music and playing violin and piano, I've never really used music to assist in my acting, though maybe one day I'll do a full 180 and change my mind! I didn't use it to get inside Nicholas's head for The Son, that said, I do love Hans Zimmer's soundtrack for the film, and I was ecstatic when I learned he would be joining the project. 

 Speaking of heavyweight industry creatives, how was it working alongside Hugh Jackman, Anthony Hopkins, and Laura Dern, were there any pinch-me moments and memories you’ll keep with you forever?

I remember feeling intimidated up until the moment I met them, as Laura, Hugh and everyone else were so accommodating and lovely toward me. They made me feel comfortable and looked after me and are genuinely some of the nicest people I've ever met. One pinch-me moment was when I was reading through a scene with Laura and Hugh in a parked trailer before our day's work. It felt very surreal as, in all other circumstances, there were always many people running around us, but this moment was just us working a scene. Anthony was a very cool and funny man. I only met him in New York for a day, but I felt very honoured as he put on his best Australian accent for me and Hugh! They’re all wonderful human beings and I wouldn't have changed a thing.

 

Let’s talk fashion, as I noted on your Instagram that you were dressed by Kim Jones when promoting the movie at the 79th Venice film festival. Was that your first big style outing in front of the cameras so to speak, and do you love the fame and fashion side that comes with being in the public eye? 

I was super excited and grateful to be dressed by Dior. I've never felt as stylish or (for lack of a better word) as cool than when I was on the carpet in Venice in Dior. They were incredibly generous and lovely people that I worked with that day. So far, I don't mind being in the public eye, though I still have plenty to learn about exposure. But I have to say, my favourite part about the carpet and premiere was going to the crowd barricade and meeting, signing, and talking to all the people there!

Left Cardigan and pants Dior Men x ERL, tanktop Calvin Klein, shoes stylist’s own, jewellery Emanuele Bicocchi

Right Shirt and suit Alexander McQueen, jewellery Emanuele Bicocchi

You grew up in Melbourne and are still based in Australia. Would you like to make more movies there, and perhaps tell different stories that haven’t been captured about the culture yet? 

I would love to help Australian productions grow. I was lucky enough to do some VFX work on a film being made in Melbourne called Better Man with the amazing Australian and Melbourne-born director Michael Gracey. I think there is plenty of work to be done here and I'm excited to see how the industry here can grow. There were recently some new very large studios built here in Melbourne, so I believe things will begin to expand.

I read that you deferred a science degree at Melbourne University, when the audition for The Son came along. So, what’s the next big plan, taking over Hollywood in a big sci-fi role?

I love acting and would love to work on more high-quality projects in Hollywood. It would be a dream to work on something like Dune or if they need to cast a Jedi, bounty hunter, or anything in Star Wars, I will happily fill in! I have always loved these stories of foreign worlds and would be honoured to be even considered to be part of one of them. I think they excite me the most, not that I don't love stories that are more grounded in reality, I just have a particular passion for these otherworldly projects.

Top and pants Prada, shoes stylist’s own, jewellery Emanuele Bicocch

Discover the full story in our upcoming SS23 WILDSIDE Issue

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Nino Muñoz

Fashion by Sharon Chitrit

Casting by Imagemachine Cs

Grooming by Lucy Halperin

Stylist’s assistant Gabrielle Ram

THE MULTI-HYPHENATE

ODEYA RUSH IS NOT ONE OF THOSE STARLETS WHO POPPED OUT OF THE WOMB WITH VISIONS OF DRAGGING HER PARENTS TO HOLLYWOOD. NEVERTHELESS, THANKS TO HER PASSION FOR STORYTELLING AND SMART-GIRL CRED, ISRAELI-BORN RUSH HAS APPEARED IN A STEADY SUCCESSION OF FILMS INCLUDING THE GIVER, GOOSEBUMPS, LADY BIRD, DUMPLIN’, DANGEROUS WATERS, AND COMEDY-DRAMA CHA CHA REAL SMOOTH. LIFE HAS BEEN AN EVER-EVOLVING CREATIVE EXPLORATION FOR THE YOUNG TALENT, AFTER LEAVING HER HOME COUNTRY TO MOVE TO THE US AT NINE-YEARS-OLD, AND A BRIEF STINT AS A MODEL. AT THIS STAGE IN HER CAREER, AND NOW STILL BASED STATESIDE, IT SEEMS AS IF RUSH HAS MASTERED HOW TO NURTURE HER CREATIVE IMPULSES, INCLUDING WRITING HER FIRST FEATURE, SET TO BE A COMING-OF-AGE DRAMA. WE CAUGHT UP WITH HER FOR AN OLD-FASHIONED CHAT ON THE PHONE, WHILE SOMEONE FIXED HER SHOWER IN THE BACKGROUND, “I HAVE TOO MUCH HAIR AND IT KEEPS GETTING CAUGHT UP IN THE DRAIN!”, SHE LAUGHS, WHILE ALSO REVEALING TO US THAT SHE OWNS A DRUMKIT AND PLAYS ALONG TO ADELE SONGS. “MA NISHMA?” WE ASK. THAT’S HEBREW FOR “WHAT’S UP?”

Coat, shirt and top Prada, jewellery David Yurman

When did you get the acting bug? Was there a particular movie or actor in your childhood, that really made you think, I want to do that?

I was always really drawn to playing and make believe, so I would write plays at home and put on plays with my friends, and when I got an iPad when I was older, I would make movies with my brothers on iMovie. So, it came from the fact I love storytelling, and from seeing Natalie Portman in The Professionals too. I remember watching the movie when I was younger and thinking she’s so cool and she’s my age and she’s also Israeli, so it really inspired me too.

You mention Israel, where you grew up. You then moved to the US when you were nine years old, so was it a culture shock but also exciting for you?

Yes, and I moved to Alabama first before coming to Los Angeles, and that was a real culture shock. There were lots of Jews there, so I did feel like there was a sense of community, but it was the opposite of Israel, and it’s very slow-paced and everything was four times the size of what I was used to. I felt so weird, and I was calling my teachers in school by their first names, because that’s what I was used to in Israel, and I was perceived as rude! But I come from a culture that is very direct and personal instantly, and American culture is very polite, so it was quite confusing!

Left Jumpsuit Chanel, sneakers Hogan

Right Dress Givenchy, jewellery David Yurman

How did the modelling come about then?

Well, I was at acting school and writing plays at home, but I was never into showbiz, I just liked the storytelling side of things. Then a friend of the family took some pictures of me and sent them to an agency, and I ended up getting an audition for Little House on the Prairie. So, I watched the entire show… and by the way, I know everything about that show, because I really prepared for the role! But it turns out it was for the book cover, for print, haha! So, I ended up being Laura Ingall’s Grandmother Charlotte, the origin story for the covers! My modelling days were just in the Summer and something that was fun for me. I was only 11 years-old, and I was looked after as a child model, so I wasn’t being sent off to Paris and all that, you know, so I can’t compare it to being like the older models.

Does fashion inspire you, especially with having all this access to stylists and clothing now as an actress?

Yes, I love fashion! I’m on Pinterest all day and I love finding and following fashion influencers, and watching videos about fashion, and I follow a lot of fashion magazines too. I love sneakers, and I’m really into streetstyle and all the up-and-coming brands.

Top and pants Bottega Veneta, jewellery David Yurman

You’ve been involved with some great projects so far in your acting career. Have you developed more confidence on screen, or found a deeper love for the craft and storytelling?

I think I’m learning more every day, and I definitely have a deeper love and respect for the craft and just want to keep improving and being the best, I can. Dangerous Waters was a really tough movie, as I was in every scene, and my character was going through intense experiences, so I found more love for the craft then as I had to challenge myself and learn new techniques and put myself in situations I’m not used to.

Do you think working alongside industry heavyweights like Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep and the late Ray Liotta, has also helped in refining those techniques, and helped in the way you prepare for roles?

Well, Ray gave it all for every single take, for every single angle, even when there was an insert of his hands, he was improvising lines. He was so giving as an actor and gave me so much time, and Jeff Bridges is also that way too. His advice was to not take life too seriously, and he has a levity about this industry, which is important, in not putting too much pressure on yourself and remember you’re doing this for the enjoyment of it. Movie sets are pressure cookers, time sensitive and everyone is always rushing and it’s easy to feel under pressure if you don’t get something right, but Jeff taught me that it’s a movie at the end of the day, and it’s all good you know!

Left Top The Thirteen Club, vintage tiara, jewellery David Yurman


Right Coat Miu Miu, shoes and socks Adidas, jewellery David Yurman

What kind of role would you like to take on that you haven’t already? Maybe an action movie with fellow Israeli actress Gal Gadot?

Oh, that would be cool! I think I would like to try comedy next, my heroes are Sacha Baron Cohen, Nathan Fielder, Jonah Hill and Seth Rogan, they’re the comedians I grew up with, and I love what they do.

You write and direct your own short films too. Do you love the writing process?

I love starting a scene and not knowing where it’s going and then it just evolves into something else. I think that’s the fun part of it, when you let your imagination run wild and it takes you to new places, and scenes just come to you when you’re not expecting them and didn’t plan for them to go that way. I’m writing my first feature now, that I hope to direct soon, and it started off completely different from where I’m at now, and I can really go anywhere with it.

Left Top Heaven by Marc Jacobs, pants JW Anderson, shoes Adidas, jewellery David Yurman


Right Top The Thirteen Club, underwear Miu Miu, vintage pants Rebalance, belt Chanel, shoes Nike, jewellery David Yurman

Can you tell me what it’s about?

It’s a coming-of-age story about two best friends who are in community college, and they feel a little stuck where they are in life. It’s about that point where you’re just out of high school and those years are starting to lose meaning, and life is starting to get serious, and they’re both discovering themselves, but doing that apart from one another.

You’ve worked with some great female directors. Have they inspired you in the way you’ll handle the process?

For sure. I feel like I take every opportunity that comes my way to work with female directors, and some of those have been my best experiences on set, like working with Anne Fletcher, Greta Gerwig and Kelly Oxford. There is a stereotype of a director that we’ve all grown up with, but you can actually be a soft spoken or introverted person and be an amazing director and gain respect from your cast and crew. That’s what I’ve learned from those women, and those sets had a lot less tension.

Left Top Heaven by Marc Jacobs, pants JW Anderson, jewellery David Yurman

Do you think you might write / direct a story about the other side of the country you grew up in, because you’re a proud Israeli, and you once said, “A lot of movies that come from Israel are about war, but there is such good, funny, rounded writing that comes from the country that I wish more people would discover.”

I come from such a rich culture, and it’s barely represented in this type of medium, and actually one of my characters in my feature is Israeli. I think I would like to do a romantic comedy maybe, something that shows my experience of someone that comes from two cultures and how that feels.

Aside from taking over Hollywood, is there anything else in your career that you hope to do?

Eventually I would like to go into business. I have a couple of restaurant and hotel ideas.

I the creative side of it all, and I would maybe launch in Los Angeles, because I feel like I know the market and demographic here, and then expand!

Left Sweater and shorts Balenciaga, sneakers and socks Nike


Right Jumpsuit Chanel, sneakers Hogan, vintage tiara

How do you mentally switch off from work and the Hollywood bubble? Looking at your Instagram, you seem to enjoy being in the great outdoors?

I like hiking, working out and I love basketball too. I was the only girl on a team when I was 8 years-old, but nobody ever passed me the ball! Haha! I also have three dogs, two Australian shepherds who are twins and the other one is a rescue. They’re a full-time job and they run my life, my world and my heart. I also play drums. I got a drumkit when I moved into my own place at 19 years-old, as my Mom would never let me have one. I like drumming along to bands like The Strokes and Alabama Shakes, and Adele has some great songs too!

Your neighbours must just love you then?

Well one time they said to me, “Hey, we just wanted to ask, what are you doing up there, are you dancing or doing tap”, haha! So I told them I had bought a drumkit! Then another time I think I heard a broom knocking! So, I just keep my playing to before 11pm at night now!

…

Discover the full story in our upcoming SS23 WILDSIDE Issue

 

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Ellen Fedors

Fashion by Sharon Chitrit

Hair by Ashley Lynn Hall

Make-Up by Janice Daoud

Make-Up assistant Alex Kleeman

Stylist’s assistant Gabrielle Ram

MODERN ROMANCE

Who among us could resist us a cute lovestruck neighbour with a Bluetooth speaker- boombox professing his infatuation for you by playing Lorde’s Supercut? Which is probably why we were all just a little bit taken with actor Dylan Arnold ‘s character as Theo in the psychological thriller series You. Before that, he starred in the romance-driven After franchise, as kind-hearted, preppy Noah, including its sequel, After We Collided – then followed up as the love cheat Cameron in Halloween (2018), and its sequel, Halloween Kills. He's already gone worldwide, but his latest projects, the new AppleTV+ drama miniseries, Lady in the Lake, and Christopher Nolan’s epic biopic of Robert Oppenheimer, prove it’s game on for this young talent who’s totally owning the screen.

 Suit Fendi, tie Thom Browne, shirt COS, socks and shoes Prada

Let’s talk about your new project, the biographical thriller, Oppenheimer. You play Frank, the younger brother to Cillian Murphy’s J. Robert Oppenheimer, who was a key figure behind the Manhattan Project and the creation of the atomic bomb during World War II.

Can you tell us more about your character?

 Frank had this intense curiosity about everything. About the world, about physics. Quite a bit of humour too but rather intense. He assisted his brother on the Manhattan Project by mapping out site plans and escape routes. In addition to his work as a physicist he was a university professor, and at one point a cattle rancher. He lived many lives! One fact I love about the real-life Frank Oppenheimer is that in his later years he went on and founded the Exploratorium in San Francisco. It’s this interactive science museum where people can come learn about physics free of charge. That was his mission. I had a wonderful time researching him.

 

How did you prepare for the role?

 I did a lot of research. And worked on the script of course. But I really enjoyed diving into the research portion of it. It’s such a different world, it’s something so far from myself so I had fun to trying to get as close to it as I could. I mean, I’m not going to pretend like I know anything about nuclear physics, but it was fun to attempt to try to understand! There are a few documentaries about the Manhattan Project that I watched, a couple of which have interviews with Frank, when he’s much older, so that was a great resource. I also read the book American Prometheus by Kai Bird which is what the script is inspired by. And there’s this wonderful book called Something Wonderful Happens by K.C. Cole about Frank and his creation and evolution of the Exploratorium which also had some great details about his childhood. It’s always a challenge to portray someone who is alive or was alive. Because you don’t want to do an impression of that person. They were a living, breathing, complex individual so it’s impossible to entirely know someone like that. All you can do is get as close as you can to create a character within the confines of the story you’re trying to tell, and then do your interpretation of who that person was. I loved learning about Frank.

Left Sweater, socks and shoes Prada, shirt Fendi, pants Bode

Right Full look Prada

 

 

Christopher Nolan directs on this movie, and he’s known for preferring practical effects over digital effects. Are we in for some amazing visual set pieces in this film?

 I mean… I think with Chris you can always expect something visually spectacular. There was an ongoing joke about whether or not he would get his hands on a real nuclear bomb. Which, of course, he didn’t. But I’m sure he’s going to achieve the same effect with whatever he’s got up his sleeve. The movie is going to be beautiful that’s for sure. You have Hoyte van Hoytema behind the camera, and then we’re shooting out in the desert in New Mexico which has such a vast, beautiful landscape. He never seems to disappoint.

 

You’ve also wrapped filming on the Apple TV+ series Lady in the Lake, alongside Natalie Portman, which is an adaptation of Laura Lippman’s novel of the same name, set in 1960s Baltimore. Can you tell me about your character?

 I play a character named Stephan Zawadzkie. He’s the owner of an exotic fish store and essentially, becomes the number one suspect of the disappearance and murder of an 11-year-old girl who was last seen in his shop. It’s an intense character and intense story for sure. I had such a wonderful time working with Alma Har’el who directed the series.  And that whole crew was wonderful. Really special experience.

Left Top Fendi

Right  Top and pants Kenzo, hat and scarf Cos, socks Prada, belt Isabel Marant

 

Are you a murder mystery or crime drama fan yourself - do you love solving the case?

 I like murder mystery stuff more now, but I could not watch that stuff when I was a kid. I had way too active of an imagination for that.

 

And as a kid, you loved theatre, right?

 I always loved performing and engaging in that sort of energetic and creative and imaginative space. I just loved getting lost in my imagination in that way. So, you can see how theatre naturally evolved from that…

 

Your relationship with acting must have changed as you’ve grown older. Can you pinpoint a project where you had a realisation that your connection to acting was going to another level? Or becoming more—for lack of a better word—serious?

 That’s a good question. Thinking back there were probably a few moments, I’ve always been connected to acting from an early age. One moment that stands out to me was I was doing this play, An Enemy of the People, and I must have been like twelve at the time. There was this scene where I had to cry, and I was so committed to it. I hyped myself up before every performance. I remember I got really into the emotion of it all and that’s when I think I saw how deep it could go. And then down the road when I decided to go to college to study acting that’s probably when I became truly seriously about it as a career.

Top and pants Kenzo, hat and scarf COS, socks Prada, belt Isabel Marant

 

Have you found yourself gathering some wisdom from the roll call of big names who you were around and are still working with, like Jamie Lee Curtis, Matt Damon and Robert Downey Jr.?

 I think I’ve tried to gather wisdom from everyone I’ve had the opportunity to work with. There is this presence and command that people of their calibre have though. It’s a strength and commitment that is very inspiring, because at this point, they’ve all lost their anonymity. They’ve totally given themselves to this. In my opinion, the best people actively lift everyone else around them and that’s definitely the experience I’ve had with the likes of those guys. Plus, I’ve had the pleasure of just working with overall lovely people. Which I think might be the most important quality. Try to leave the excessive ego out of it and make the work enjoyable for everyone.

 

You’ve played complicated layered characters, from Theo in You to Cameron in the two Halloween movies. Do you those types of roles appeal the most, where you can really challenge yourself and help you grow as an actor?

 Definitely. I’ve honestly really appreciated every job I’ve had. I think each one has offered me something unique. But when I get to push myself and learn something new and do something that’s going to ultimately take me out of my comfort zone, I think those are the moments I look forward to as an actor. When you’ve done so much work on a character already and yet there’s still more to uncover and explore. I love doing this and I hope to do it for a long time. So, the more I can push myself and grow the better off I think I’ll be.

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With the Halloween films, was it daunting to be a part of a franchise with such a rich history?

 I don’t think it was daunting as much as it was exciting. The fans are so passionate so to get to enter a universe as iconic and rich as that was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I mean, forever I will get to say I got killed by Michael Myers. That’s pretty good.

 

From horror flicks to boyfriend roles, is there some underlying thing that you think drives you to take the kinds of projects that you do? Like, do you love being scared, or have you ever been that hopelessly lovesick neighbour with a boombox, in real life?!

 To be completely honest, when I was first starting out, I’d audition for everything and for the most part, took whatever job I got. I wasn’t very picky. I just wanted to get out there and get the experience working professionally. Which I’m glad I did. As I work more and find my footing in this business, I think I have gained a little more stability to be selective with the projects that truly excite me. Which is a great feeling. With each project there’s usually something different that draws me to it. Either the character, or director, or cast, or writing, or all the above. Any chance I get to access a different part of myself and explore a character is thrilling to me.

 Suit Fendi, tie Thom Browne, shirt COS, socks and shoes Prada

 

How did it feel playing a crush object and fan favourite in You? Have you ever had a funny experience with someone coming up to you in public?

 I feel like people either loved my character or hated my character. Theo seemed to be very polarizing. Which, hey, I’m okay with that! For the most part people are fairly tame when they come up to me. It’s usually like “hey, you look like that one neighbor boy from You!” On occasion people can get very excited about it. Which is flattering but can be quite overwhelming at times.

 

You’re not returning for the fourth season of that twisty thriller series. So, what do you think Theo will be doing with his life now then?

 Oof. Poor Theo. I don’t know, I hope he’s doing well though. I think he’ll have a hard time trusting women in the future that’s for sure. Hopefully he finds a nice loving partner that doesn’t try to kill him.

 

Haha! And what about you, what would you like to try next, the dream role - and are you interested in writing / directing your own movies some day?

 I would love to direct. And write. I really enjoy story telling in general so that’s something I’d be interested in down the road. I’m really inspired by music so when I listen to a song I love, I always think about how it would play in a movie and what interesting visuals could be pared with it to tell a story. So, I definitely feel like that sort of thing is in my future. I don’t know about a dream role; I feel like that’s a question I’m always asked that I never have a specific answer for. I just want to keep exploring different characters, telling different stories. I think when my ‘dream role’ comes up I’ll probably know it but for now I’m just open to whatever comes next.

Left Top UR GF & pants Bode

Right Top Kenzo

 

Obviously, I have to ask why you’re not currently on Instagram, as your bio says…?

 I think I just feel more at peace when I’m not on it. I notice how much of my mental capacity is taken up when I use it regularly, and how much harder it is to be present. Even when my phone is off there’s still this thought of “oh, I wonder what’s going on on there?” so I think taking space altogether just puts me at ease a little more. It’s funny, when I first got Instagram 10 years ago there were like four filters and people just posted whatever they wanted. No one was as concerned with what was being put out there. It just had more personality. See that was fun to me! Now everyone just seems so concerned with the image of it all. It’s so curated. People representing their lives in this very specific way that just doesn’t feel genuine, and often isn’t. I get a lot of messages telling me to post things- it just feels so odd to go through the thought process of what I want to put out there. And once I put it out there it no longer belongs to me, it’s public domain. I may decide one day that I want to engage more with the platform but for now, I’m happy having my privacy and being a distant observer.

 

Ok, so I’ll be cheeky and ask, what’s one thing about you that nobody knows that will surprise us?

 If nobody knows, why would I tell you? Buy me dinner first and we’ll see.

…

Discover the full story in our upcoming SS23 WILDSIDE Issue

Interview by Kate Lawson

 Photography by Emilia Staugaard

Fashion by Jensen Edmondson

Fashion editor Caroline Orrico

  Casting by Imagemachine Cs

Grooming by Sonia Lee at Exclusive Artists

Photographer’s assistants Kevin Ipalari

IMAGINATIVE IMMERSION

You probably know Freddy Carter as the tortured anti-hero Kaz Brekker, from Netflix’s cult fantasy series Shadow and Bone, based on Leigh Bardugo’s bestselling Grishaverse books.  Hot off the back of the show’s second season twist, the Brit star, whose acting credits also include Free Reign, HBO Max’s Pennyworth, Wonder Woman and American Carnage, tells us about fandoms, life mottos and his happy place.

Shirt Contemporary Wardrobe, Jumper Sage Nation, pants Emporio Armani


So, everyone loved Shadow and Bone’s second season. When you first got the part of Kaz, were you aware how much this show meant to the fans of the books, and have you ever felt the pressures of bringing a fan favourite story to life?

I don’t think I really became aware of the fandom properly until the initial cast announcement before season one. We were all sat in my flat in Budapest staring at Twitter and Instagram thinking “Oh, quite a few people really care about these stories and who will be playing these characters” and we hadn’t even started filming at this stage so there was a little bit of pressure to ‘get it right’. Actually, I think I always put that pressure on myself anyway, so it wasn’t too much to handle. Going back for the second season was a whole different challenge because people had liked and responded well to the first season so that was in some ways a welcome kind of pressure.

Left Full look Prada

Right Coat Loewe, knit Studio Nicholson, shirt & pants Ferragamo

What’s been one of your most favourite or challenging scenes to film so far in the show?

I think that any scene which involves famous lines or moments playing a much beloved character from a book, are always a bit daunting. There is a scene in episode eight of the second season with Kaz and Inej which features some important and much quoted lines from the books, which Amita (Suman) and I were desperate to do justice to.

Left Full look Prada

Right Jacket Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

“I like researching and immersing myself in different worlds.”

Speaking of Kaz and Inej, who have this special bond, do you think Kaz will ever reveal his true feelings for her, and might their relationship develop in the future?

I think he would love to but sadly it’s not that simple. It sounds a bit trite, but this is very much a case of ‘it’s not you, it’s me’. He has to deal with his own trauma first and I think he knows on some level that he can’t be the man he would want to be for her, at least not until he has dealt with that trauma and those issues.

Left Coat Dunhill, shirt Emporio Armani

Right Full look Prada

This current season really expands on those different elements of the characters and their backstories. Are you given a certain amount of flexibility with how the character can be portrayed, as Kaz’s duality must have been interesting to explore in more detail?

What’s been really nice is that the creatives on the show are all big fans of the book so have been very aware of Kaz’s backstory and trauma from the get-go and have just been waiting for the right opportunity to explore that aspect of his character. When we finally get the chance to learn about his past and why he is the way he is in season two we were all really excited and it felt like a true collaboration between me, the writers, producers and most importantly the author, Leigh.

There seems to be a great vibe between all of you in the cast off-screen. Do you have a whatsapp group?

Yeah, they’re alright I suppose, haha! We do have a WhatsApp group; I think we have several actually.

Who sends the best messages in the group?

I don’t know about the ‘best’, but Archie (Renaux) definitely sends the most. You can always bank on Amita (Suman) for a polite ‘laugh cry’ emoji in response!

So, who else would you love to work with? Who inspires you?

So many! Too many to mention all of them but Sam Rockwell, Viola Davis, Cillian Murphy, Cate Blanchett are the first that spring to mind.

Left Full look Prada

Right Coat Dunhill, shirt Emporio Armani

When did the acting bug start for you?

It started at school when I played Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk. I was 10 and I think from that point on I’ve just been really excited by the simple idea of getting a group of people together to tell a story to another group of people. Having an older brother in the industry (Tom Austen), has been a huge help, as we help each other with auditions and always bounce ideas off one another. He writes a lot now and I’m lucky enough to be one of the first people he’ll send a draft to.

Do you have a dream project?

I’ve always wanted to play a real person in a biopic or something. It’s been so fulfilling working on a book adaptation like Shadow and Bone, because you can always go back to the source material if you need help figuring out a moment or scene. I think with a real person you’d have such a wealth of information to utilise and bring to the table. I like researching and immersing myself in different worlds.

You have Masters of the Air and The Doll Factory due out later this year. How much did you love filming them?

They were both brilliant experiences and totally different from one another. Masters Of The Air is by far the largest scale project I’ve ever worked on; there was a huge cast, sprawling sets and a two-week boot camp prior to filming. While The Doll Factory was a more intimate experience, working closely with the director, and for most of my scenes, just with one other actor. Jumping from one to the other and working on different size sets is an enjoyable challenge.

Shirt Contemporary Wardrobe, Jumper Sage Nation, pants Emporio Armani

Do you ever watch yourself on screen and self-critique at all?

I am probably one of my harshest critics. Also, I completely understand when people don’t want to watch themselves. The process of filmmaking is such that what you end up watching at home on the sofa can feel very far removed from what it felt like on the day on set and sometimes that disparity can be disappointing or confusing. Sometimes it’s more useful to remember and enjoy the feeling you had on the day.

So when you’re not on set, where can we find you? Pub, art gallery, club, holiday somewhere gorgeous…?

Somewhere gorgeous hopefully! I try to get out of the city as often as possible, to the sea or the countryside. I didn’t grow up in cities and so definitely get fatigued by them quicker than others do.

Jacket Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, vest Lej London, pants Contemporary Wardrobe, shoes Filipa K

Yes, I read that you’ve travelled a fair bit and lived in various places growing up, as your dad was in the army. So where is home for you now, your happy place?

London is home and has been for nearly 10 years. I have a love/hate relationship whereby I love the excitement and immediacy of a city like London, but I also hate the noise and the constant distractions. My happy place is probably Scotland or Barbados - anywhere where there is water and bad phone service!

Ha! So, do you have a motto or a proverb, that’s helped you on your journey so far?

‘What’s for you, won’t go by you.’

…

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Keir Laird

Fashion by Nathan Henry

Casting by Imagemachine cs

Grooming by Charlie Cullen

Set design by Haleima Darwish

Stylist’s assistant Rachel Allison

THE ALL ROUNDER

Seulgi may be the busiest Kpop star you’ll ever meet. While she was preparing the release of an album and a world tour with her iconic group Red Velvet she still found the time to deliver an EP with SM Entertainment’s supergroup GOT the beat and shake the industry with a groundbreaking solo debut ‘28 Reasons’. They don’t call her the strongest female all rounder of the 3rd generation for nothing. Having been a part of the industry since 2007, Seulgi has had the time to explore multiple concepts and develop her chameleon-like identity. Although it seems like she never stops, the idol reveals that she still makes time for necessary small vacations to recharge her energy in between her hectic schedules. While her career may make many envious, she advises younger idols of the industry to preserve their youth and not rush through their experiences as the entertainment industry is a tough place to grow up in. 

Full look Zadig&Voltaire

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire, necklace KVK, SENTIMENT

Tell us about your debut? How did it feel to debut as a soloist?

It definitely felt different from being in a group. There were times I was overwhelmed to handle everything by myself, but that made me proud and helped me to grow more. It was a good experience. 

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire

Your mini-album delves into the contrast of good and evil, which seems to be a common theme in your work, something that we have also seen Red Velvet explore through the years with their soft and dark concepts. Why do you think you’re drawn to showing duality in your performances as an artist?

As I continue with my career, I often have the opportunity to try various concepts, and the concept of having two sides was the most charming to me. I think I was drawn to the idea of having another version of myself inside me. It’s intriguing and fun! 

Full look Miu Miu

What are you inspired by in your song-writing?

For ‘Dead Man Runnin’, the feeling that the song conveyed was so heavily tied to its character and I felt like I couldn’t just tell my own story thorough it. I watched a lot of movies with villain protagonists and imagined a story for it. I wrote the lyrics like a novel as I thought it’d be interesting to write in a villain’s perspective and that it’ll suit the song, and I was able to finish it quite quickly. 

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire, Earring, brooch KVK

Left Jacket Miu Miu

Right Dress Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

For your solo work you took control of the decision making, how did that compare to working with your members and did you miss them in this journey?

I felt I had to align and match the overall concept and/or image of Red Velvet since the group has a strong concept and a worldview, but that worried me the most since I had to build an image for myself as a soloist. As my ambition to become better grew over time, my judgments became clouded and I realized I was under a lot more pressure than I initially thought. That’s why I relied on my team or the members. Seeking advice from members who already had a solo debut, and receiving encouragement from them, helped me endure through these times. If I release another album in the future, I think I will be able to let go of the pressure and enjoy the process more. 

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire

You are an all rounder idol, who has the ability to perform solo, as a duo, with your group and with a supergroup like GoT, how do you maintain your drive and versatility as an artist ?

 I take great pride in being able to show various performances and concepts through various groups. Whenever I am able to pull off a concept, I feel a sense of pleasure. I prefer taking on new challenges rather than doing the same things repeatedly, so I was able to enjoy it. 

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What are your projects for this year both with Red Velvet and solo?

Red Velvet is holding a concert after 3 years. I can’t believe how fast three years have passed, but we’re putting all our energy into this concert as we weren’t able to meet our fans in a long time and we hope they’ll enjoy it with us. I think we’ll be holding a world tour after the concert in Korea. 

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How do you feel returning after more than 3 years since your last concert “La Rouge”?

I’m so nervous, but it’s filled with a pleasant tension and anticipation. But honestly speaking, I’m mostly worried about my strength for the concert. It’s been 3 years since we performed for 2 and a half hours on stage, so the members and I are doing our best to manage our strength and health. 

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire

And you’ve just released the schedule for your world tour, where you’ll be travelling quite a lot! What is your favourite thing to do while on tour?

Experiencing the food and the culture of the region! Even if I’m on a tight schedule, I always explore the area. Since I can come back and travel again in the future if I find a city that I like, I try to enjoy and relax for short getaways. 

Full looks Zadig&Voltaire, necklace KVK

You’ve been in the industry for more than a decade, and have grown up with your members and other 3rd generation idols, what advice would you give to 4th generation rookies of today?

I was surprised at how talented they are. I wasn’t as talented as them when I was young, and I felt that these young artists are maturing quickly. However, it makes me sad upon wishing they’d enjoy their age and youth. Growing up too fast isn’t always the best, and I hope they have a healthy career in this industry. 

Right Full look Valentino

…

Interview by Gabrielle Colas

Photography by Yookeun Lim

Fashion by Juyeon Oh

Casting by Mi Kim

Production by Mi Kim

Hair by Gunwong Na

Make-Up by Myungsun Lee

Photographer’s assistants Yeochan Yoon & Hyunwoo Kim

Stylist’s assistant Minseon Kim

Production’s assistant Kio Seol

Hair’s assistant Sohee Park

Make Up’s assistant Youngji Lee

MALIBU BLUE

Left Full Prada

Right Full Celine Homme

Left Full Celine Homme

Right Full look Prada, sunglasses JMM

Full look Prada, sunglasses JMM

Full look Miu Miu, shoes Vans

Full look Celine Homme

Full look Celine Homme

Full Celine Homme

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Right Full Celine Homme

Featuring Presley Gerber at DNA

Photography by Cole Fawcett 

Fashion by Andrew T. Vottero 

Grooming by Carla Sofia Pérez 

HIGHER SELF

Justice Smith joins me on a zoom call from Los Angeles, ahead of a trip to the vets with his 8-month-old puppy Ashtray, who besides his acting career, is taking up all of his attention right now. “I can’t wait for her to be an old dog,” he jokes, “Puppies are a lot of expelling energy, haha!!”  Speaking of energy, Smith is a blazing hot Hollywood force burning bright, having starred in the Jurassic World movies, Detective Pikachu and the upcoming epic adventure tale Dungeons & Dragons, alongside appearances in hit TV shows The Get Down and teen dramedy Genera+ion. Smith can currently be seen in Apple TV+’s neo-noir thriller, Sharper, in which the knives are out in this stylish, twisty tale of love, con artists, secrets and lies. During our chat we discovered a mutual admiration for his Sharper co-star Julianne Moore, and how we share a zodiac sign (Leo… aka attention seekers), before things got deep as we discussed the perils of how to be present and find inner happiness.

Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello


So, let’s talk about your new film Sharper, you play Tom, who finds himself in a whirlwind love story, and then becomes the target of some sophisticated con artists. It’s a smart, mischievous, and stylish, character-driven movie, that harks back to the old 70s and 80s twisty film capers. What drew you to the script?

Julianne Moore! I mean it was the cherry on top that the script was great, but I would’ve played a security guard or the boy next door you know, whoever, whatever, in order to work with Julianne Moore!!

She’s amazing right! What do you love about her, apart from everything?

She’s one of my favourite actresses and Boogie Nights (which she stars in), is my all-time favourite movie, and she’s incredible in it. Working with her exceeded my expectations because she’s so kind and interested in getting to know you in between set-ups and it was like an indirect masterclass working with her, watching her craft this character right in front of my eyes. She does this thing where she’ll say her line and then she’ll tweak it or say it in a different way, and just mould her character unapologetically. As a young actor, there’s this myth that to be respected and good at what you do, your process has to be private – like you’ve been in a dark room with candles taking notes on your script, and then come to work and when they say action, that’s when you do your thing. Julianne was like, ‘just try things and take risks’, and it really inspired me to be more into my process and see what happens in the moment.

Vest & sweater Raf Simons, pants Colbo NY, loafers Acne Studios

So that process of being present, in the moment, how did you apply it to your character in this film?

It’s ironic really, because I went into this film with that mentality, and it’s the first film I’ve done where I really decided to prioritise presence over preparation. When I met Julianne, it was almost kismet, because I’m sure she has her own behind-the-scenes process, but watching her bring it to the forefront, was kind of what I set out to do on this film. So, I got to see it in action, professionally, in her ability to be present. So, for me that would look like I did my initial pass of the script and tried for the character arc and took my notes and had my conversations. Then when we started shooting, I didn’t pick my script up again, and I would just focus on the scene of that day, and learn my lines on set, because I can learn my lines really quickly – so that would mean I wouldn’t have any preconceived notions of how I was going to say things, and then I would just respond to whoever my scene partner was that day. It was also easy to do when you have such an incredible cast to work with, all you have to do is really listen to what they’re giving you and respond accordingly.

The movie’s story really highlights how far people will go in terms of ambition and greed, and the divides between love and money, rich and poor. Were you able to relate to the deception in it though, and bring that human sensibility of passing through different worlds to get somewhere or achieve something?

I’ll try and answer this without fully spoiling the movie!! I think there is a parallel between what happens in the film and what’s happening in our culture, like the ways in which we curate ourselves to make people believe we are something we’re not. That’s the mission statement of social media, it’s like ‘how can I present myself in a way to get people to like me’? In the case of this movie, obviously the intention is a little more devious, but that’s like a familiar sentiment for everybody, in that understanding of how to play a certain role in order to get what you want. I related to that, but when it came to the scenes of duality – like holding on to the character’s intention, what I’m saying, thinking about what the audience is going to experience, how to play that honestly so I don’t give anything away… that was difficult! You’re playing it in an ambiguous state, and I think the key to that is just playing the truth of the scene honestly, as if your character actually believes what they’re saying, even though you know that might not be the case. It allows the audience to go on the ride with you.

“I prefer projects that cross my path which light me up, where there is a physical change in my body when I think about being a part of it.”

.

Away from the camera, you’re the opposite of someone who’s fame or money-driven… as I read that you prefer to follow your heart creatively in terms of perfecting your art. So, are you at a point now where you can happily say no to things, and what kind of passion projects are you keen to really dive into?

100%. I prefer projects that cross my path which light me up, where there is a physical change in my body when I think about being a part of it. That’s the instinct that I’m trying to listen to, but it’s a constant battle, because this business is infectious, in the way that there are a lot of people in it that are pursuing a cheque or popularity. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that, I used to, but now I’ve met amazing actors who’ve said upfront that they want to be famous and make money, and if that’s what gets you there through being driven and talented, then that’s a great motivation for them. For me though, I find this push and pull between doing things that light me up, as I have to make money to provide for my family like everyone under capitalism, but I know if I do a project of a higher profile, it will allow me to do more passion projects in the future. So, there is a strategy that comes with all of this, to get me from point A to point B.

Has it been hard at times, navigating the industry? How has your own journey evolved in terms of your process and absorbing and learning the techniques of your craft?

You have no idea!! I wish you could answer this question for me!! I’m still in the thick of it trying to figure out the formula to a happy, successful career. It’s really case by case, as my process changes depending on the film, and that I realised early on. It’s not going to be like for one film I might be method acting so I’ll do that for every single thing, no. It really depends on what I need from that character for that project. Like I mentioned earlier, with Sharper I really prioritised presence, and I incorporated that into other films that came afterwards. Before all of that, I was prioritising immersion and trying to set up my life in a way that influenced the psychology of my character, so when I got to set, I didn’t really have to do much. On other sets I would just prioritise joy, like ‘am I having fun on this project?’, or my performance and the experience for me as a person. I think in the ever-changing nature of my process, from project to project, I’ve realised that the way I choose projects is going to be different each time, from choosing it based on the character, or the story, or the cast or director, or if it’s a good cheque! I’m trying to be ok with not knowing how to approach every single thing, and that’s the hardest part, being ok with nothing being fixed.

But then work and life in general is not meant to be fixed is it, we can’t know or predict how things will be and how you’ll approach a situation when you get there?

Right, and I can’t grapple with that truth!

Denim jacket, jeans & slippers MM6 Maison Margiela, button-down Christian Dior x Colbo NY, all jewelry Bernard James

So, looking back over the characters you’ve played, and those different priorities, from enjoyment or just getting paid megabucks! What’s been your favourite role you’ve really connected with?

I just did this movie which hasn’t been announced yet so I can’t talk about it, but it was perfect in every sense of the word, because the experience and people were amazing! I got to shoot in LA where I live and I got to play a character which is the closest ever to myself and my own journey, and I can’t wait for people to see it! Even if they don’t like it, I’m so grateful for the experience to be part of it and I use it as a backdrop for choosing projects now, like, ‘is this going to be as good as the other one…?’

So, we’ll be chatting again when it finally comes out?

Yes, you’re going to have to talk to me! I really want to talk about it but you know, I can’t!

Left Full look Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

Right Leather jacket over-head Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, leather top Prada, bracelet Bernard James

Let’s rewind back to being a kid for a minute. Did this love of storytelling originate in your childhood, like escapism into other worlds, did it all start the acting bug?

Oh yeah, 100%! I knew I wanted to be an actor since I could form memories, and I was always interested in playing pretend, and being in all the school plays, and I used to play games that were imagination based, like superheroes and villains. I got fixated on lying too!

Do you think it could also be a ‘Leo’ thing? I’m the same zodiac sign, and we Leo’s like attention?

That couldn’t be truer, I love attention, and I’m learning to be ok with that! I mean I pursued acting, but I was also into writing and theatre and video games for escapism, and I still am. I think one of my biggest lessons in life is to find the magic in reality and be ok with being present… there you are, we’re full circle again, haha!

Full look ERL, boots Raf Simons, necklace Bernard James

Is there a writer / director in you then, with a story you would love to tell audiences in the future?

Yes, I’ve been teetering that line for a minute now, and I wrote a short film that I was going to direct as a kind of intro into that world, because I’ve been feeling called to it. But again, I’m realising the reality is that it’s not fully what I expected it to be. There’s a lot of shit that I don’t want to do around directing, but the act of creating something from my brain and seeing it to fruition is something I’m really interested in.

What about music, are you going to put out any new stuff?

Yes definitely, I’ve been working on the same song for a year now! You know, I have all of this creativity and I’m always saying I feel like something could be good if I could make it happen, but it’s actually understanding the steps to making it happen, or the commitment it requires, that’s a wall for me right now. With acting, someone comes to get you and you know what you’re going to do and just do it. When it’s your own baby though, it’s hard to nurture it and do it yourself.

You’ve got a long to-do list ahead of you then…

Well, I want to do more music, cross the threshold into directing, and write more… but I have to get my own spirit right first. I’m not completely happy yet, and I think that’s preventing me believing in myself, because I’m grappling with being happy.

Vest & sweater Raf Simons, pants Colbo NY

Is that maybe why you seek some of the answers from life philosophers like Yung Pueblo, because he’s the only person you follow on IG?

That’s such a good question… I have therapy tomorrow and maybe I can get back to you on that one, haha! Literally right now in this second, I’m coming off a revelation that I have been making quite a bit of space for other people in my life, and I try to take the high road a lot of the time, but I think it leads to resentment. So, I’m realising the only person who’s looking out for me in this life is me, and that I need to prioritise my own comfort in relationships. I hate that I’m about to quote my own tweet that I wrote the other day… haha! but I don’t want to be on my death bed and be like, I’m so happy I lived my life for everyone else. I want to be able to say I made myself happy and really stood up for myself in this life. So, I guess that’s the wave I’m riding right now, and we’ll see how it goes.

I’m sure you’ll figure it all out Justice, meanwhile, it’s been lovely talking with you…

Likewise, this was a real heavy session, haha!

Well now you don’t need therapy tomorrow…

Exactly, haha!

Full look ERL, boots Raf Simons, necklace Bernard James

…

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by César Buitrago

Fashion by Ian McRae

Casting by Imagemachine CS

Groomer Alex Keating

Barber Larry Cherry

Photographer’s assistants Adam Kenner & Hannah Edelman

Stylist’s assistant Hoshy Nye & Justin Delvalle 

CHASING DARKNESS

WHEN A TV SHOW YOU STAR IN BECOMES A HIT, FILMING THE SECOND SEASON COMES WITH ADDED PRESSURE. KNOWING SO MANY PEOPLE ARE EAGERLY AWAITING THE NEW EPISODES OF HBO’S YELLOWJACKETS MADE SOPHIE THATCHER NERVOUS AT FIRST. HER NUANCED PORTRAYAL OF NATALIE, A TROUBLED TEEN TURNED GROUP HUNTRESS WHEN HER HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER TEAM’S PLANE CRASHES IN THE WILDERNESS, WON PRAISE THAT SHE WAS ANXIOUS TO LIVE UP TO, DESPITE THE ROLE’S PHYSICAL AND MENTAL TOLL. BUT, ACCORDING TO THATCHER, THE STAKES ARE EVEN HIGHER FOR THE CHARACTERS THEMSELVES. 

THE SECOND SEASON, OUT LATER THIS MONTH, IS SCARIER AND MORE SHOCKING THAN EVER. THATCHER, WHO GREW UP MAKING AT-HOME ZOMBIE MOVIES WITH HER TWIN, HAS ALWAYS BEEN DRAWN TO DARKNESS. IT’S NO SURPRISE THEN THAT SHE’S BEEN RACKING UP SCREEN TIME IN HORRORS AND THRILLERS. 

WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE 22-YEAR-OLD TO TALK FILMING SEASON TWO OF YELLOWJACKETS, SURVIVAL INSTINCT AND WHY MUSIC IS LIFE.

All look Valentino

Hi Sophie! How have you been since we last spoke?

I’m good! I’m in LA. I just moved here two months ago. I got a place. It makes sense for my job. It’s raining today which we’re not used to. I have a leak already in my bedroom so I’m ready to set up a trash can and just have the rain pour into that.


Oh no! So, let’s talk about Yellowjackets. When we last spoke, you said you hoped your character Natalie would become a bit more integrated into the group. Does this happen or does she become increasingly isolated?

I think she becomes increasingly isolated. There's clearly tension between her and Travis. He's taking Lottie's side and choosing Lottie's faith because everybody wants some optimism to grasp onto, but Natalie is so focused on survival and being the hunter so that's her entire goal. When I was talking to people before we shot season two, I said I just wanted her to explore the huntress realm because I feel like that's her main drive and it makes the most sense for her and that’s what happens in season two. I was just selfishly saying I wanted her to become more integrated in the group so I could work with the other actors. I want to work with everybody. I was hoping I'd have more scenes with Misty because there’s such a cool dynamic between her and older Natalie that I thought would play out, but I think that’ll be in season three. You can see some brewing tension.

Left All look Valentino

Right Dress Miu Miu, earrings Mondo Mondo

 What do you think viewers will take away from this season emotionally? Would you say that it's scarier than season one?

 It definitely takes more risks. I can't think of any other TV show that has gone to the places it’s going. I think it'll shock everybody because we’ve had more time to build empathy for the characters. I think there will be more of a feeling towards what they're going through. The circumstances just keep getting worse and worse. The stakes keep rising and everything keeps becoming more and more heightened. It becomes a more thrilling show as time goes by because everything is getting more difficult. You get to see some of the older cast connect and there are some new characters connecting the past to the present. 

All look Valentino

 And there was more of a budget behind season two.

The scenes we shot in Alberta were my favourite days. They were slightly miserable because it was so freezing, but it was really good insight into what it's like out there and how your physicality changes and your voice changes when you're actually there in the freezing cold. When we were shooting on a stage I was worried about it playing out realistically. The beauty of season one was that we were all actually there and it was deeper into COVID and quarantine so there was this kind of mania and craziness. I feel like this year we were all more separate and the circumstances were easier, but I'm really glad I was able to go and shoot in Alberta because I was able to see the world they're in which will make a difference building that world for the viewer. It builds the atmosphere and the tension. The beauty of last season was that it was all in front of us. We were actually living it so it didn't take as much preparation. We have to use a lot of our imagination this year. Building the world in season one and building that foundation and the dynamic of the group was essential. Now that we have it, it took a second to get back into it. It's been hard being on a stage with a bigger budget, but then also really hard trudging through the snow. 

Why do you think that Natalie maintains this hunter's instinct and rejects the spirituality that some of the others embrace?

 She grew up with a different background. She's been in survival mode her entire life so I think hunting comes naturally for her. She’s determined. She goes out everyday to provide for everybody. She's faced with reality everyday. Everybody else is going stir crazy in the cabin, but she’s going out and seeing real life. I think that's keeping her grounded. Other people don't have that experience. This is keeping her alive. Providing for everyone is keeping her going. She definitely remains the most grounded for most of season two. In season one, she's the heart of the group and remains that way for most of season two.

 

Which part of filming did you find the most physically strenuous?

 Those days in Alberta. The snow was so deep and I was really out of exercise. Trying to deliver some quippy Natalie lines while I was walking through the snow going back and forth. I was losing my breath. I think it was harder because I'm so keen on matching Juliette’s [Lewis, who plays older Natalie] voice. Sometimes it felt harder to match the lowness of her voice when I was in that circumstance in Alberta. It was hard to maintain that but, as an actor, I just want to experience everything. 

Left Dress Ashish, earrings Mondo Mondo

Right Dress Moschino, earrings Mondo Mondo

 Another big difference filming this season was the knowledge that so many people are anticipating the release. 

 Yeah. In the first couple of episodes, I was pretty anxious. I was pretty self aware. There was a lot of great feedback, but sometimes great feedback can hold you back or make you stagnant in your process. I was like, okay, they're complimenting me and Juliette. We have the same energy. How can I maintain that or outdo it? I was really keen on matching her physicality this year because watching her in season one, she's so physical and fluid, but of course it's winter and we're in all these layers so I was put in this insane tight leather jacket and I felt like a mannequin so there were a lot of hurdles. It always takes a couple episodes to get back into it, but I think Natalie's just in me so it was easy to snap back into that.

 

In between the filming of the two seasons did you do more research or think more in your imagination about the role like while you weren't actually working on it?

 When I left season one, my voice was a little bit different. My voice was lower. I'm not a method actor at all, but the role stays in your body. There was a bit of a shift. I was a little bit more spontaneous. It was a hard experience so I feel like we were all going through it. Leaving season one, there was a lingering sensation of Natalie which wasn't the best feeling, but it also pushed me because Natalie doesn't play it safe. I feel like I was finally a little bit more confident. That's sometimes the beauty of our work. Characters can bring you confidence. That's really cool when that happens, but I think Natalie lingered a bit. For the second season, it helped that I have a boyfriend and I'm just better with separating work and life now because I saw how badly it got to me in the first season. Not badly, but it was intense. And I hope that doesn't happen again [laughs.]

Full look Miu Miu, earrings Mondo Mondo

 Last time we spoke, you said that you wanted to spend more time making music and making art. How has that been going?

 I have a lot of songs that I want to release. I just saw Kim Gordon play live with her noise band, and immediately went home and started making music. I'm inspired. I feel like right now, I'm keeping these as my side projects and my outlet. It's selfish and it's personal, but it's mine. I'm keeping that for now. I want to release these two songs in the next month or two on Spotify so that'll be cool, but I don't want it to become something bigger. With acting, there's a lot of pressure on it. I want music to remain a healthy outlet. Music is number one. Music is definitely before acting. Music is life. That's my mentality now. It could change and it could be something that comes naturally, but it's really just about what that feels like and what it does for me. It feels more personal.

 

You're also starring in Stephen King adaptation The Boogeyman which is out later this year. Are you a horror movie fan?

 I watched 28 Days Later when I was really young. I grew up making zombie movies with my twin and my friends. For my ninth birthday party, we made a zombie movie. I can take anything with horror. Stephen King is insane. He gets really dark and I guess I didn't realise how dark it gets with horror because it's not always taken seriously as a genre, but I think this film will be pretty elevated. It's coming from a dark psychological place.


Are you drawn to darkness?

 Absolutely. I think I need to do a comedy or something otherwise it's gonna eat at my soul. Darkness is definitely what I'm drawn to. It’s easy to go there because I've been going there for so long. Naturally, the music and the art that I'm into is a bit darker. It comes from a very vulnerable place. Being vulnerable is my favourite outlet, but you can be vulnerable in a comedy. I want to experiment with something lighter. There's something very vulnerable about trying to be funny.

…

Interview by Sophie Lou Wilson

Photography by Richie Lee Davis

Fashion by Isabelle Fields

Casting by Imagemachine CS

Hair by Sully Layo

Make-Up by Melissa Rogers

SPLAT PACK

When we catch up via Zoom with Jack Champion, his life has changed beyond comprehension: from unknown Virginia-born teen to being seen on giant screens around the world as the loin-clothed human kid Spider, raised by the native Na’vi, in Avatar: The Way of Water. Since making a big splash (in Pandora), the 18-year-old actor has also appeared in Avengers: Endgame and now bagged himself the role of nerdy-but-not-so-nice, Ethan, in Scream VI, the latest instalment of the iconic slasher franchise. Riding the momentum from his star-making turns, here he tells us about scream queens and creepy hairless cat costumes.

Shirt Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

So, you’re a huge fan of the Scream movies, which is a stroke of luck, because you’re in the latest one! Did all your dreams come true at once when you got the role?

 Oh yeah for sure! When I met the producer William Sherak and the directors, they were the nicest, most passionate people I’ve ever met for a project, and I knew if I got the role, it would be a dream come true. I would say it’s always been a bucket list thing, but I would never have thought it could be on my bucket list, because it’s such an awesome, crazy project to be a part of, and I’m so grateful.

 

Tell us about your character?

 I play Ethan Landry, who is the roommate of Chad, the survivor from Scream 5, and they’re attending Blackmore College which is in New York, and Ethan is a shy, kind of dorky character.

Full look Prada

 Did you have to learn to scream for the role?

 Haha! No, it’s kind of one of those things where you just have to go for it, and hope it works out!

 

How did you prepare for the character of Ethan then, did you have anyone in mind to reference from?

 I guess when you’re doing a Scream movie, every other character that’s gone before you is so iconic, that you try not to steal or copy anything from them. You just take little bits from your favourites and then add those into your own character, that you’ve made unique to you, and try and get that perfect blend.

[On filming Scream VI] “I had to constantly remind myself that I was at work, and not to fan out!”

.

 Were you fanboy’ing when you stepped on to the set for the first time?

 Oh man, it was absolutely crazy! I would be on set with Jenna, Mason, Jasmine, all these people who I saw in Scream 5, which is such a phenomenal movie, and I was thinking, ‘wait, I saw that movie like six months ago, and now I’m working with these people!!’, you know, it was such a pinch me moment that I had to constantly remind myself that I was at work, and not to fan out!

Left Shirt Kyle’Lyk, pants Salvatore Ferragamo

Right

  Who are your favourite Scream characters then?

 Stu Macher and Billy Loomis are just the OG’s, they’re so cool.

 

I bet you’ve worn a Ghostface costume for Halloween at some point?

 Yes! I wore it back in October 2021, and then 6 or 7 months later I booked the role in Scream VI and was filming it, so that was a really weird coincidence!

Shirt Kyle’Lyk, pants Salvatore Ferragamo

 How did you get on with the rest of the cast, is there a group chat, and what’s the latest vibe between you all?

 We all get along so well, and we have a group chat for everyone in the cast, and normally we just send memes or random stuff going on in our lives.

 

Who sends the best memes?

 Me and Mason Gooding, we send lots of Breaking Bad memes!

Left Coat Kyle’Lyk, tank top Calvin Klein, pants Salvatore Ferragamo

Right Full look Salvatore Ferragamo

 So how was it moving from doing sci fi like Avatar for such a big chunk of time, to a slasher horror flick?

 I think horror is more grounded, with very little CGI and you’re on sets with real people, and no green screens. With sci fi you have to use your imagination a lot more, but with horror, you actually have someone in a cloak chasing you, so it’s easier to play at being scared!

 

Did you watch horror films growing up then, any favourites?

 It’s a toss-up between the original Scream movie, Trick or Treat and Cabin in the Woods.

Full look Emporio Armani

 So, you’ve never been a scaredy cat, watching horror movies behind your hands?

 I used to be a giant scaredy-cat! but having delved into the horror genre in film and TV now, I’ve become more used to it and have built up a tolerance to being frightened!

My friends introduced me to different horror films too, and I’ve just gone down this horror rabbit hole, but also, I have to say that Halloween is my favourite holiday. My mom always goes all out to dress the house up and we wear different costumes from ghouls and goblins to ghosts and have parties with scary mazes. Growing up we used to go to the pumpkin patch too, and there’s something so special about that one day in the year where you can just let your freak flag fly!

 

Talking of scaredy cats, you have a hairless sphynx cat called Butters. Did you ever think of taking him on set for Scream VI, so he could pop up in the background in some dark creepy corner, just feasting on someone’s sliced-off bloodied finger?

 Haha! I didn’t think of that at all, but you know, if there’s a next one, definitely! Butters is just the best pet for Halloween, I can dress him up as a sewer rat, or a witch’s cat, anything creepy.

Top Kyle’Lyk

 Let’s finish up with Scream Queens, who’s your ultimate one, aside from Drew Barrymore obviously?

 Laurie Strode, right?! Jamie Lee Curtis in Halloween, I mean, she’s the ultimate screamer, she’s iconic!

…

Interview by Kate Lawson

Photography by Hadar Pitchon

Fashion by Michael Andrew

Casting by Imagemachine CS

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