Storm Reid - ContentMode

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Stars in Film

Missing

Interview Laura Albert

Photography Kourtney Kyung Smith

Fashion Editor Deborah Ferguson

Storm Reid made her film debut at age nine, in 12 Years a Slave; when she was 14, she starred with Oprah in A Wrinkle in Time. But Storm has now truly popped into the spotlight with her heartbreaking performance in Euphoria as Gia, the younger sister of Rue (played by Zendaya). Aaron I. Butler, ACE – Editor on Euphoria – has this to say: “Working with Storm Reid was an editor’s dream. Her mastery of emotion is breathtaking, especially for someone of her age. But she wasn’t only good at the big emotions, she could also convey so much life experience in just a look. Her performance as Gia – especially in episode 205, “Stand Still Like the Hummingbird” – was so honest, it broke the audience’s heart into a million pieces. It was crucial for us to show the impact of Rue’s struggles on her family, and Storm became that mirror of pain and love for her sister, which elevated every scene she was in.”

Storm brings her vibrant intensity to both The Last of Us, the HBO series based on a post-apocalyptic video game, and Will Merrick and Nick Johnson’s thriller Missing (the sequel Searching), playing a teen who uses technology to find her mother.

Blouse and Skirt: Stella McCartney Sneakers: Prada

Mesh Dress and Tank Top: Prada R23

SR: This role was the most challenging role I have ever played. It was a completely different way to act than my previous roles. I love a challenge and I tried to jump into June’s role quickly, but one thing that was definitely different when preparing was that I did not have a scene partner during practices. I knew immediately I would have to prepare for this role differently from the start, but that is what is exciting in acting – always getting to practice different techniques and really challenging yourself.

Knit Top, Skirt, Heels; Prada R23

Blouse: Stella McCartney

LA: Your character Riley in The Last of Us is in full fight-for-survival mode. What physical training did you do for this role? Was it a different regimen from what you usually do?

SR: No, we did not have to do any special training. I kept up my usual workout schedule, as we did have to film many action-filled scenes. We also did many, many stunt rehearsals in order to be prepared.

LA: What are your thoughts about the difference in being dressed in a utilitarian costume – does it feel more freeing?

SR: It depends on the character. Riley, she is a badass and does not care what she is wearing. I mean she is focused on surviving. I enjoyed Riley’s outfits because they added to her mindset and allowed me to connect deeper with the character.

Dress and Sneakers: Prada R23 Sunglasses: Oakley

LA: Which is easier to take off – caked-on dirt or high-fashion glittery makeup?

SR: Glittery makeup is the worst. Glittery makeup is so much worse than the crunchy dirty look. Glitter will stay on your face for days even after your best attempt at scrubbing it off.

Blouse and Skirt: Stella McCartney Sneakers: Prada

Knit Top and Skirt: Prada R23

LA: You founded A Seed & Wings Productions with your mother Robyn Simpson and are already producing films. What is the best part of working with your mother? How do each of you bring ideas to the table about what to focus on?

SR: Working with my mom, oh yes, she is an incredible producer. It is amazing to see and hear her creative ideas, we usually agree on the creative side of things. We rarely disagree. It is also nice as it gives me a sense of comfort while also being seamless business partners.

LA: Speaking of your mom, what is the backstory of your name?

SR: One day when my mom was pregnant, she was in the car with my dad and she turned to him and said, “Oh Lord what have we done, I think we have created a storm.” And the rest is history.

Blouse and Skirt: Stella McCartney Sunglasses: Oakley

T-shirt, Skirt and Boots: Cristopher Kane

LA: Do you know what she would have named you if you were a boy?

SR: She wanted me to be a boy. Basically, she cried when she found out I was going to be a girl. She almost named me Phoenix. I would have loved that name, even today as a girl I think it is a beautiful name.

LA: It sounds like you are having a great time being a college student at the University of Southern California. The value you put on your education is an inspiration to those folks who still think that fame is everything and they shouldn’t bother pursuing their education. What surprised you the most about going to college? What would you advise a young person who’s deciding whether or not to go to college?

SR: College is case by case. You need to focus on what you want to do in life. I don’t need to go to college, but I knew growing up that I wanted to. I knew that college is important, as it is not only about academics but personal growth and development for adulthood too. I also knew, since I started acting so young, that I would go to college to develop a sense of normality. I am getting to do so many things I dreamed about, going to football games, living on campus, and going to parties.

Knit Dress and Bags: Prada R23 Sneakers: NewBalance

LA: What are the strategies you use to disengage from social media?

SR: I go through phases on social media. Some weeks I am more active than others. I like to go on breaks from posting whenever I am overwhelmed or want to focus on something in my life, but that’s easier said than done. I aim to be as true to myself as I can on social media, showing my followers my authentic self. Social media is sometimes a “double-edged sword”; it creates a sense of community, but people today can be so mean.

Knit Dress: Prada Sneakers: NewBalance

LA: You made your film debut at age nine in 12 Years a Slave. Since then the social-justice, political, and gender-equality movements all have opened up new conversations. What are the biggest shifts you’ve noticed?

SR: I think we are taking baby steps. People need to be comfortable with talking about uncomfortable topics before anything can be resolved. I always say the world needs “real action, not performative action.” I believe that everyone does not need to know everything, but they need to be willing to learn and understand all the facts. I have also learned that in life you will not be on the same page as everyone. People have differing moral compasses, and I choose to focus on how I respond to things.

Knit Dress: Prada R23 Mesh Dress and Tank Top: Prada R23

LA: You’ve worked with Oprah Winfrey in A Wrinkle in Time and met Beyoncé on the “Family Feud” music video; you also continue to work with some of the most talented creatives. But you remain very grounded, and you focus on elevating stories that might not be heard – and on giving back as well. Does working with your mom help keep you laser-focused on what is important?

SR: Family keeps me grounded. I have been doing this for a while now, so I am able to select sometimes what I focus on or who/what I am supporting.