Digital Cover: Brianne Tju
Talent: Brianne Tju
Photographer: Haley Tju
Stylist: Haley Tju
Photo Edits: Delaney Colaio
Words: Juri Watanabe
Producer: Chrissy Wang
EIC: Anthony Vu Cao
Cover Outfit: Knit Dress By Yan Yan knits
"Uglies" is a highly anticipated film adaptation of Scott Westerfeld's novel. How did you prepare for your role as Shay, and what drew you to this character?
I was drawn to Shay when I read the book in elementary school. I loved her free-spirited nature, her rebelliousness, and her bravery. I prepped for her like I would any character. The book was a great resource, but honestly, cultivating her friendship with Tally was huge in helping me understand Shay.
Shay is confident, courageous, and rebellious. How did you relate to her, and what challenges did you face while bringing her to life on screen?
I related to her urge to not want to just fall in line and do what is expected of her. I think I've spent a lot of my life trying to prove that you can't fit me into a neat and tidy box. Shay is expansive, like most people, and she wants to be accepted for all parts of her. The biggest challenge was Shay's transition at the end. It was heartbreaking for me to have to diminish Shay's individuality and numb her. The physical transformation is so massive and it was a shock for me to see myself like that.
Knit Dress By Yan Yan knits
The film's premise centers around the idea of societal pressures to conform to beauty standards. How do you think this narrative resonates with today's audience, especially regarding body image and self-acceptance?
I think this story is timelier than ever. With social media, filters, FaceTune, and the rise of cosmetic procedures it has never been so confusing to me as a human. It's impossible to keep up with the trends and standards and there is so much pressure. Uglies doesn't condemn surgery or changing your appearance, it's a reminder that we have a choice to do what makes us feel good and to not just conform for the sake of being accepted by others. It's a message I wish I had been taught as a young person.
You've had a diverse range of roles, from horror to drama to YA series. What excites you most about playing characters in such varied genres?
Honestly, I'm drawn to characters, stories, relationships, and working with collaborative people. I love genre films and I think it forces you to use your imagination which is always fun and challenging. Genre takes a lot of communication and collaboration which I enjoy.
“I try to be honest. The internet is not always the kindest place, but vulnerability is always the brave choice. As public people, I think it's important to bring attention to issues that get diminished… ”
Had there been any particular role in your career that profoundly impacted your roles that followed?
I think my experience in Gone in the Night was pivotal, especially in terms of the reviews that came afterward. It made me realize that the main part of my job is being on set and bringing my character to life. It's a vulnerable process that sometimes feels like out takes place in a bubble, but eventually, that bubble will pop and the project will be shared with the world. I can't control what other people think or say about the project. So now I don't read reviews and I try to just remember all the fun and hard work I put into the project and let that define my experience rather than the reception of it.
You've been vocal about issues such as mental health, body positivity, and eating disorders. How do you integrate these values into your career, and why is it important for you to use your platform to raise awareness about these topics?
I try to be honest. The internet is not always the kindest place, but vulnerability is always the brave choice. As public people, I think it's important to bring attention to issues that get diminished. These issues are highly stigmatized and if I can tell my story and inspire others to have hope or feel seen, then I will.
As a proud member of the AAPI community, how has your heritage influenced your journey in the entertainment industry? What advice would you give to young AAPI actors looking to follow in your footsteps?
I've been doing this since I was 8 and only in recent years has the industry really made efforts to be inclusive and have real representation in front of and behind the camera. We still have a ways to go. As a young actor, I thought I would only ever play the friend or some trope, but I don't believe that anymore. I'm worthy of more interesting roles, but that took time for me to realize. My best advice would be to cultivate a full life outside of work and also be your own advocate. Don't let other people tell you what you can and can't do. We are all different and that's what makes us special and valuable and you need to really believe that if you want others to believe it too.
In a past interview, you mentioned rediscovering your power as an Asian American woman. How have you embraced your identity both in your personal life and in your career?
I've had to work a lot on my self-acceptance and self-love. Being in this industry from such a young age really took a toll on my confidence and my sense of self. Honestly, prioritizing my life outside of work and not tying my identity to my career has been huge. Having pride in my heritage and my unique experiences is what makes me interesting and human and I try to bring that into every character I play.
With such a diverse range of roles, from Disney's "Liv and Maddie" to horror series like "Scream: The TV Series," how do you stay grounded and focused on your personal growth as an actress?
I don't have a plan. I try not to micro-manage my career and just allow it to evolve naturally. As I grow as a person, I grow as an actor. I try to remind myself that we tell stories about the human experience so the more empathetic and curious I can be, the better.
You've said that trusting yourself is crucial in this industry. Can you share a moment in your career where self-belief made all the difference in your decision-making or performance?
Playing Shay was a huge responsibility, especially because the books are so beloved. I wasn't sure I could live up to everyone's expectations. But because I felt so supported on set and I knew that I was working hard and doing everything I could to create the best Shay, I felt confident enough to lean in and take risks which I think paid off in the end. I'm very proud of this movie and my version of Shay.
As someone who grew up in the entertainment industry, what lessons have you learned over the years about balancing your personal life with the demands of your professional career?
It's been something I've struggled with for a lot of my life. Making time for myself and cultivating a full life outside of work has been the biggest breakthrough for me. Balance is key and sometimes you have to say no in order to show up for yourself.
Looking ahead, are there any specific genres or roles you're eager to explore next, and how do you see your career evolving in the coming years?
I'm really open to whatever comes my way. I try not to plan because it never works out that way anyway. I want to keep working with inspiring people, keep growing my craft, and tell stories that feel important to me - whatever that may look like. I'd like to be behind the camera as well and have more power in terms of the decisions being made.
What message do you hope your fans and viewers take away from "Uglies," and how does this project reflect your personal beliefs or artistic goals?
I hope people realize that we have a choice. We need to think more critically about "the way things are" and aspire to do better even if that feels outside the realm of what's popular. Authenticity and individuality are not valued enough, but it's all we have so let's embrace it. This is something I genuinely try to live by. GR8T
Black Skirt & Top: Hankim / Red Shoes: Maison Margiela / Gold Earrings: Senia