Dress, bag, and boots: Valentino
Interview by Sydney Nash
When were you first introduced to acting and performance? Was there a specific moment when you knew you wanted to be an actor?
When I was little, I would put on shows for my family. I always loved to perform, but I never really knew it could be a job. I didn’t have anyone in my family in the industry, so it wasn’t until my first drama class in high school, where I realized it could be my life. I then switched to an arts high school and started really thinking about becoming an actor.
You star alongside David Thewlis in Atom Egoyan’s film Guest of Honour. Tell me how this role came about.
I auditioned for the role, and I heard back months later that Atom wanted to meet with me. We would go for coffees on weekends while I was in Toronto shooting In The Tall Grass. We discussed all things Veronica, and on our last meeting, he told me I got the part. I remember acting very cool when he told me, but as soon as I left, I totally freaked out in the middle of the street. I was so excited.
Blouse and skirt: Preen, Pants and belt: Elisabetta Franchi, Boots: Valentino
The movie spans a number of years and centers around your character Veronica’s relationship with her father. What was the most challenging aspect of portraying her?
Veronica is a lot more introverted than I am, so finding her stillness was a fun challenge that I loved getting to explore with Atom.
Egoyan is a renowned director with an extensive filmography. Tell me about his direction style. What was your favorite part about working with him?
I would describe Atom as a ball of light. He’s just the best human. He is passionate, caring and available. He creates a safe space for exploration. He is incredibly attentive, and he really takes the time. I remember our first meeting; he had cut out an article about conducting and gave it to me. I was so touched. During rehearsals we also improvised scenes that weren’t in the script, which really helped build Veronica. Everything about working with Atom was an absolute dream.
Top, suit and sunglasses: Tata La, Belt: Elisabetta Franchi, Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival and the next stop is the Toronto Film Festival. What has the experience been like to share you work with audiences in this setting?
I’m still pinching myself about the whole thing! To be in such respected festivals surrounded by people I admire was a little surreal. There was a lot of taking it all in and trying not to cry in public.
You star in Netflix’s adaption of Stephen King’s In the Tall Grass, which is set to release soon. What’s it like to work with such rich material in the horror genre? On a scale of 1-10, how scared will the audience be?
I’m hesitant to give a number out of 10 because I’m a big scaredy-cat, but I can promise it’s gory! What I like about this film, in particular, is that even though it is horror and there are sci-fi elements to it, every character is going through something. So we find these very real people in harsh conditions. That’s what kept me on the edge of my seat when I watched it, and I think other people will enjoy that aspect of it, too.
You have a number of exciting new projects coming out soon. What do you do to stay grounded and relaxed?
I meditate as much as I can. I binge-watch TV at home with my dog and my boyfriend, and we hang out with friends when we’re not being apartment hermits. I love being surrounded by good energy and good people.
What’s been the best advice you ever received?
The best advice I ever received was from my manager. He told me to be me because nobody else can. I started to infuse my own take of things into my auditions, versus the idea of what I thought someone wanted to see. It seems like such simple advice, but I always carry it with me. I think owning your uniqueness is a great way of practicing self-love, which isn’t always easy.
What’s next for you? What are you looking forward to most in the next year?
Netflix’s Locke and Key is next for me! I’m so excited for people to see the show and can’t wait for whatever the universe throws my way next year.
Top, suit and sunglasses: Tata LA, Belt: Elisabetta Franchi, Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
What was the last song you listened to?
“Feels like Home” by Bea Miller & Jessie Reyez
If you weren’t an actress, what job would you have?
I would be unemployed and miserable!
Next vacation spot?
Greece, please!
What’s the biggest misconception Americans have about Canadians?
That we can handle cold weather. No thank you!
What show are you currently binge-ing?
Fleabag
What was the last movie to make you cry?
I know it’s technically a miniseries, but I have to say When They See Us, because I cried the entire time. I’m happy that story is being told and that it was executed so brilliantly. Everyone should see this show.
You’re not filming or on set. Where can we find you?
On my couch being an apartment hermit…. don’t tell anyone!
Top and pants: Tata LA, Mules: Manolo Blahnik
Photography: Allegra Messina
Creative Direction and Fashion: Deborah Ferguson
Interview by Sydney Nash
Make up: Harriet Hadfield @ SWA using Retrouve
Hair: Matt Fugate @ Forward Artists
Layout: Allie King