BELLO #218

Bello

#218

WINTER 2022

FREYA ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDER BEER

ISSN 2769-5077

DIG

Photo DAVID HENDERSON

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ISSUE 218

TABLE of CONTENT

Freya Allan WINTER 2022

Top BARBARA BUI Hat LAIRD LONDON

06 Letter From The Editor

58 Hyped | ALEXA SWINTON

07 BELLO Obsessions

62 Hyped | ELUJAY

08 Cover Story | FREYA ALLAN

64 Hyped | SHAUN

20 Spotlight | SOPHIA ALI 34 Fashion | HYLA'S SECRET GARDEN 46 Fashion | A BLINK TO THE PAST

67 Design your dream shoe with TAFT 68 Hyped | LILLY KRUG 72 Maison Privée Shopping guide

54 Feature | NETTA WALKER

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Photo NIRMAL RAJENDHARKUMAR

Letter From The Editor Bello

Love is in the air! The sun is coming out and the birds are singing!

Here at BELLO, we hope you have had a nice start to the New Year and are excited to share with you what we have in store from this month!

For our cover, the beautiful Freya Allan from THE WITCHER rocked out on the set of a Bello Cover Shoot in London, shot by Alexander Beer. For our Spotlight, the beautiful and fierce, Sophia Ali, who recently stars as a lead in UNCHARTED and plays alongside a stellar cast.

Alexa Swinton from "And Just Like That...," artist and singer SHAUN, Lilly Krug from SHATTERED, and rising artist, Elujay, have got us HYPED this month with their new projects whether it be TV, film, or music! So beautiful seeing the different talented out there.

Of course, if any of you are ALL AMERICAN fans, well, get ready, as the spinoff ALL AMERICAN: HOMECOMING, is coming out soon and Netat Walker is amazing!

We have some beautiful fashion editorials for you to check out and of course our Maison Privée Shopping Guide ad Bello Obsessions.

Take a moment to think about who and what you love and soak it all in!

Bisous Bisous Alexandra Bonnet

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Curated by Stephane Marquet

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN The noirs nail polish LALIQUE Cabochon ring

TOM FORD Ombré leather fragrance

DOLCE & GABBANA Large Beatrice leather tote bag

GUERLAIN Orchidée black imperail Age-defying Serum

GUCCI oversized heptagon-frame sunglasses MUGLER Illusion-neck panelled bodysuit

CHANEL Baume essentiel multi-Use Glow Stick TRUDON Napoleon candle

VERSACE Juno platform pumps

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FREYA ALLAN

by Alexander Beer

Top JEN LEE Trousers BARBARA BUI Shoes EMMA HYACINTH Earrings, bracelet SHAPE OF SOUND

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Top BARBARA BUI Hat LAIRD LONDON

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FREYA ALLAN SOARING HIGH

“ I’ve definitely learnt that pressure fuels me and

that I love to be challenged; that’s what keeps everything so interesting and alive,” opened up actress Freya Allan who stars in the hit series THE

WITCHER. The series’ second season has been

a major hit in the world of TV and here at BELLO, we are excited to share with you our exclusive

interview with the woman who plays the role of “Ciri,” the princess of Cintra.

I worked hard at things because I wanted to and

was driven to rather than being forced.” If only all parents could be like that, am I right?

Having a support system so stable and strong is truly a blessing and for Freya, it allowed her

to pursue her dreams full throttle and to have people to share them with! Throughout the filming

In Season 1, her character experiences much loss and turmoil in a rapid manner so this new season

allowed Ciri to contemplate everything she went

through before. “She is discovering things about herself and her family she never knew and so she

is trying to figure out who she is and what she

wants to do with her future,” explained Freya. “The lingering fear of this uncontrollable power she possesses hanging over her shoulder constantly.”

Oooo! A determined character who values her voice, the actress finds the same characteristics

within herself--off screen. Laughingly she added, “however, I did not grow up in a castle.”

of the first season of THE WITCHER, the actress’ mom and brother came to Budapest which

made the experience even more meaningful and memorable. And on the topic of memories,

another moment that stood out to her was when “her friend Jack spent a whole day learning to

milk a bloody cow only to come onto set the next

day to find a Hungarian super horse in its place, due to the cow having other commitments,” Freya concluded with a laugh. Holy cow!

Alright, Alright. In all seriousness, working on THE WITCHER has filled the actress with love, passion, dedication, and a sense of camaraderie.

This sense of poise and rationality stems from a

childhood in which she had to mature much more

quickly than other kids. Her parents separated

when she was just a baby which lead her to live a split double life. Having had to navigate through

it all, Freya learned many hard lessons young

but luckily had two parents who “never put any kind of pressure on me and were supportive of

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whatever I chose to do,” she shared. “As a result,

“Everyone’s so dedicated and we’re all working

hard to produce something as a whole,” she

opened up, “which is such a nice feeling, especially when there are those inevitable hard days.” A sort of relief some may say? Especially on those

shoot days where everyone is in a good mood and “ there’s laughter in between the moments of

focus.” Of course, there is also beauty in those days where you “conquer a scene you were

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nervous about as well as bad shooting days” where you just have to get on with it and get the

job done. And with the very best by your side… not too bad right?

fighting for.” And that is what makes her stand out: going beyond what is expected from a character

in a film and providing a performance that will truly get the audience thinking!

It’s important to make a note of those who light

you up and those who bring you more anxiety than anything else so take moment to do so. And see how things shift!

As Freya continues her journey as an actress, her next upcoming project is an Indie film called

BAGHEAD. A role that kind of fell on her lap, this will be her first time leading a feature film…um, okay Freya! Get it! “I’d shot a film with studio

canal before and they’re lovely, AND it’s Berlin, why wouldn’t I!” she added. That’s a fair point,...

Playing the role of Iris, a woman who takes

on a pub that belonged to her father, who she barely knew and who very recently died, some

weird things begin to happen. “But I hope that

audiences also get to see the emotion and reality within the horror element of the film too though,”

Freya shared candidly. “That’s what I was always

Freya has always stayed true to herself and what she wants, something that started at the age of 4 when

they were reading out the casting for the school nativity and they said, “Freya: sally the wolf”, (who she was told eats the sheep). “I shot up my hand

up and said, in front of the whole class, “I don’t

want to be a baddie!”” the actress described with a chuckle. “So I became Sally the vegetarian wolf, and I remember getting the biggest laugh from the audience when I said the line.” Now that is a childhood memory!

Ready for whatever life puts on her path next, Freya Allan is soaring high in the world of film and

television and we can’t wait to see what else comes up! Filled with love, passion, dedication,

and a sense of closeness, the actress has everything that it takes to keep shining bright!

Talent FREYA ALLAN @freyaallan Photographer ALEXANDER BEER @alexbeer7 Assistants LUKE AND JACK DUCKER Stylist SOFIA LAZZARI @sofialazzaristylist at Frank Agency Hair BEN COOKE @bencooke_lockonego at Frank agency Beauty CAROLINE BARNES @carolinebarnesmakeup at Frank agency Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites Shot at FAIRLIGHT STUDIOS @fairlightstudios Production @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la x @alexbonnetwrites x @alexbeer7

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Suit ESAU YORI Boots EMMA HYACINTH Earrings and ring SHAPE OF SOUND

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Dress SEYIT

SOPHIA ALI

SOPHIA ALI AS SHE CONTINUES TO STEP OUT OF HER COMFORT ZONE STARRING IN UNCHARTED, SOPHIA ALI LANDED A LEAD ROLE ON THE FILM OPPOSITE TOM HOLLAND AND MANY OTHER RENOWNED ACTORS. PLAYING A "BADASS VIDEO GAME CHARACTER" ON SCREEN, THIS WAS TRULY A DREAM OPPORTUNITY! REMINDING HERSELF TO BE MORE SURE OF HERSELF, ON SET SHE HAS THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE NEW THINGS THAT PUSHED HER OUT OF HER COMFORT ZONE. YOU MAY ALSO RECOGNIZE HER FROM HER ROLE ON THE WILDS, WHICH ALSO INVOLVED A LOT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, LOL! KEEP READING ON AND GET TO KNOW SOPHIA ALI A LITTLE MORE!

Congratulations on your lead role in UNCHARTED. What originally drew you to audition?

I played all of the Uncharted games, including Lost Legacy. I played Lost Legacy a few times, actually. I worked out in the gym with a trainer.

I was excited at just the possibility of bringing such a badass video game character to life on-screen. It's not every day an opportunity like that comes around.

Tell us a story about a time you had an adrenaline rush. What was happening?

What was the outcome?

Share with us what it was like working alongside such a renowned cast. What did you learn about yourself?

While they were so easy to get along with on and off-set, they work so efficiently when required. I see their resilience shine through.

To me, Mark, Tom, Tati, Antonio, and Ruben have a solid sense of what's worth their energy and how to place their time. I wanted to learn so much from the experience of filming Uncharted, so I showed up to set every day expecting to grow but instead walked away reminding myself to be more sure of myself.

The film is packed with action, legends, and more. How did you prepare for your role?

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Full truth, that was almost every day on Uncharted. I genuinely didn't know what to expect most days. I had a great stunt double, which alleviated the pressure to put myself in a potentially dangerous situation, but I didn't know for certain what I physically could and couldn't do. They asked me to run down the side of a water fountain in Barcelona, and then slide down the hood of a car. I said, "let's give it a go." It wasn't until I was at the top of the fountain, without wires or safety netting, that I was questioning myself and my ability to run along a ledge, this high up, covered in water, and not severely injure myself. I had so much adrenaline pumping, I just did it. And I was okay. I even did it a few times. It was never not scary.

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You also star in THE WILDS (love the show). How does that project differ from UNCHARTED? They're technically similar in a lot of ways. most of the time I could expect physical activity, such as heavy stunts and stakes.

However, material wise, tone, pace, basically everything else could not be more different.

The Wilds was a good preliminary for Uncharted as far as stunts. The Wilds is a lot more performance driven.

Did you form any special bonds on set of THE WILDS? Explain.

We're all away from our homes for the entire shoot, not to mention the material is written and portrayed in such a way that bonding happens without us even realizing. The cast is like my sisters.

Growing up, what was your response when people thought you wouldn’t make it?

I never knew anyone who said that to me. If they only thought it, then maybe I'm lucky or was blissfully unaware. I can get tunnel vision

when it comes to my goals and aspirations. I take no time to notice the people who would compromise the velocity. I had some family members disagree that entertainment would be the right path, because there are fewer opportunities for women like me. That was because they care and want what is best for me. Now that I've managed to make a living, I receive full support from them.

Any advice for our audience on how to deal with conflict?

Don't expect anything. Don't expect an apology, don't expect a reconciliation, don't expect to be right.

Something most people do not know about you?

I have a chameleon named Phoenix.

What comes next?

I want to keep challenging myself. Ideally, someday soon, I'll be writing and directing my own movies.

Talent SOPHIA ALI @sophiatali Photographer MATT DOHENY @dohenyphoto Styling SONIA YOUNG @soniayoungstyle Hair ARLEN FARMER @arlenjeremy Makeup DANNI KATZ @dannidoesit using SHISEIDO Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites Production @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la x @alexbonnetwrites

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Top KAFTAN STUDIO Jeans AND OTHER STORIES Shoes LARROUDÈ

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Suit CLAUDIA LEE Shoes MALOUNE SOULIERS Earrings ADIBA

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Dress NIL AND MON Shoes NO NAME

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Top KAFTAN STUDIO Jeans AND OTHER STORIES Shoes LARROUDÈ

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Suit CLAUDIA LEE Shoes MALOUNE SOULIERS Earrings ADIBA

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HYLA'S SECRET

GARDEN

Photography + Styling + Retouch + Creative Direction MARCUS & WARREN STUDIOS @marcusandwarren Model HYLA GOLDEN DEL CASTILLO @h.y.l.a_ @Campbell Models Accessory Designer H.Y.L.A @h.y.l.a Fashion Designer MARICAR STUDIO @maricarstudio

Gown MARICAR STUDIOS Jewelry Accessories H.Y.L.A

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Vintage trousers Shirt ZARA

A BLINK TO THE PAST Photography DAVID SUARÉZ @davidsuarezph Model FERNANDO NORIEGA @fernandonoriega Makeup + Hair JUAN MA CONSTANTINO @juanmacons

ASOS

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TOPMAN

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ASOS

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Vintage trousers Shirt ZARA Vintage boots

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PURO EGO

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NETTA WALKER

STARRING IN THE SPINOFF OF ALL AMERICAN, ALL AMERICAN: HOMECOMING, NETTA WALKER SPOKE WITH US AT BELLO ABOUT HER EXPERIENCE PLAYING PON BOTH SETS AND WHO SHE IS AS AN ACTRESS AND INDIVIDUAL. EXCITED TO BE PART OF A SHOW THAT HAS TOUCHED SO MANY HEARTS, THE TALENTED ACTRESS HAS LEARNED A LOT ABOUT HERSELF THROUGH HER CHARACTER. CENTERED AROUND BLACK EXCELLENCE, THE SHOW PORTRAYS DIFFERENT CHARACTERS FROM DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS AND HOW THEY COME TOGETHER IN MANY WAYS. WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT COMES NEXT FOR NETTA WALKER.

What was it like going from ALL AMERICAN to ALL AMERICAN: HOMECOMING?

this wonderful cast has made that journey so much fun. Playing Keisha specifically has

incredible

taught me how to address my own short

to spend so much time with the OG cast on

eye. Our life paths have been eerily similar, so

freeing, though admittedly I was really nervous.

intimidating. She’s really held a mirror up to

on how I wanted Keisha to move and exist in

in all of my mistakes. I’ve learned a lot about

characters. This fanbase is no joke! I was really

grateful I’m able to get to know her so well.

amazing show runner, Nkechi Okoro Carroll,

What are some themes fans of the OG series

Beverly Hills to Atlanta seamless. Getting to

very different about it?

been one of the most exhilarating experiences

The show is giving drama, just like the OG,

So

wild.

All

American

is

an

mothership of a show, I still can’t believe I got

comings and past mistakes with a much kinder

our pilot. Playing over there was lowkey very

playing her has been very therapeutic and yet

It felt like I was getting to test the waters a bit

me and made me learn to love myself, even

this universe of already established and loved

who I am from playing her and am eternally

nervous about getting it right, and still am. Our and our writers' room made the transition from create our own world over at Bringston has

will be seeing again in the spinoff? What is

I’ve ever had.

so expect that for sure. Black excellence

Share with us your experience on set and

and you’ll be seeing a whole hell of a lot

what you learned about yourself.

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physically and mentally. Luckily, working with

will ALWAYS be a theme in this universe,

throughout Homecoming. NK has created a universe where black people continue to be

Before booking Homecoming I was a Chicago

intelligent, empowered, heard, supported,

most time I’ve ever spent on a set. Let alone

human. The biggest difference would be that

me, it’s been insane. I’d only done little roles in

culture is king. The HBCU experience is very

for months at a time like this. The transition

with black excellence. There’s no space for

theater girl through and through, so this is the

multifaceted and ultimately allowed to be

on a set in Hollywood! This is all so new to

we’re at an HBCU in the south, where black

TV/Film things here and there but never shot

much a character of its own on our show, along

was a test of stamina and endurance, both

anything short of excellence, and that pressure

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creates a different world of experiences for the characters at Bringston.

or attributes I may find interesting or fun to

Favorite part of the show? And of your character on it?

play. It’s easy to doubt your own choices as an actor and to only think about what other people

want you to do. Worrying about opinions of

I love that we’re seeing that blackness isn’t a

monolith. You’ll be seeing such a wide range

of the black experience and solely the black experience. Each of these characters are so different and come from widely different

backgrounds, but you get to watch them come together and build these wonderful and complex relationships.

casting directors and directors and networks

and artistic directors is an easy trap to fall into for me, which is what historically has riled up my nerves most. So I try to tell myself when

auditioning to just play the character the way I feel like I’m having the most fun artistically, which has really helped settle my nerves. It takes the stress away from getting people to

like what I’m doing, and instead forces me

As a woman who falls into the bi/pansexual sexuality spectrum, I personally love that

Keisha is queer. Growing up trying to figure out

to have fun and focus on artistic fulfillment

instead. I can thank the Chicago theater scene for teaching me that thought process.

how to express my sexuality was a really scary

In what ways have your previous roles

loving whoever she loves isn’t taboo and she’s

ever felt like quitting at times?

thing to feel confident about, but to Keisha willing to fight anyone who says otherwise. It’s amazing getting to be in a show where all of

the other characters are supportive and treat her no differently. It’s also amazing that she

has a best friend as open and expressive as Nathaniel. I wish I could’ve seen characters as

confident and open as the two of them when

I was 14, so getting to live in this world as Keisha has been a dream come true.

furthered your love for acting? Have you

Starting out in the Chicago theater scene really

taught me how important ensemble and artistry is. I truly could write a love letter to Chicago for showing me how much I really adore being an actor. I would do a play for 2 months and get paid a $100 stipend, but it never mattered

because I got to create. I got to play and learn about who I could be as an artist and not really

Describe to us a time you felt nervous and how you overcame it.

care about the outcome or others opinions on it. There were so many moments when I was working 2 restaurant jobs, an unpaid theater

I used to get nauseatingly nervous about auditioning. It took a lot of practice and falling on

my face to learn that I needed to trust myself and

my choices, and I still fall on my face OFTEN. Recently I’ve been trying to allow myself to say

yes to whoever I think the character is, trying

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to allow myself to explore whatever little quirks

gig, and couldn’t afford rent. Those were the

moments I really thought about quitting and getting a desk job just for the stability, but that never felt right. Even if I was exhausted and had 20 bucks in my name, getting the chance

to step into a character made that struggle

worth it. No matter the circumstances, acting

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has been the largest source of joy in my life and I feel so lucky to have fallen in love with it.

Growing into myself as a theater school drop

out in the Windy City taught me what the height of that love feels like.

hands of women. Because of the black and brown femmes before me paving the way and

changing the game, I can play characters like Keisha. Women like Halle Berry, Viola Davis,

Shonda Rimes, Michaela Coel, Angela Basset,

Growing up, what was your favorite activity to unwind/get away from the stresses of life?

Sandra Oh, Issa Rae, Lucy Lu, Zendaya – they’ve already put in so much leg work and

have revolutionized the way women exist in

entertainment. When I was 10 I never thought

Most of the things I enjoy doing are pretty nerdy or I got made fun of for when I was

younger. I grew up watching a lot of anime in my downtime, I’ve probably seen Trigun and

Yu Yu Hakusho all the way through 40 times.

I’d see a Queer Black and Filipino young woman messily discovering herself on TV, let alone did

I ever think I’d get to play her. Representation matters! You can tell that the industry is fully realizing that now.

I’m a bit of a homebody when I’m not working,

What comes next?

homies back in Chicago and my family back

Hopefully movies and plays! I’ve dreamed of

I do a lot of journaling and yoga and talking to in Jacksonville. I also love musicals, watching

Sunday In The Park with George and listening to old Broadway cast recordings really centers me oddly.

being on Broadway since I was 14, and more

recently have loved exploring independent film. Every actor wants to do blockbuster films

of course, but I’d love to produce movies with

As a female in the industry, do you feel like there is progress? Explain.

the homies back in Chi. I also love writing, so learning the land of producing my own work is on the list of things I hope to do. And putting

I think that all the progress that has been

made in this industry has been made at the

some of the play’s I’ve written on their feet! But

who knows, I’m just excited to keep exploring and learning about myself as an artist.

Photography SARAH KRICK @sarahkrickphotography Makeup PAUL BLANCH @paulyblanch Hair PRESTON WADA @prestonwada Styling MONTY JACKSON @mrmontyjackson Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites

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ALEXA SWINTON STARS IN THE SERIES, "AND JUST LIKE THAT..." WHICH CONTINUES THE STORYLINE OF SEX AND THE CITY. KICKING OFF HER ACTING CAREER STRONGLY, BEING YOUNG HAS ITS ADVANTAGES AS SHE CAN BRING THE KNOWLEDGE OF KIDS TODAY TO THE TABLE. SOAKING IN ALL THE EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS AROUND HER, ALEXA IS ALSO PLANNING ON INTEGRATING MUSIC INTO HER RESUME! WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING WHERE SHE IS HEADED NEXT. GO, ALEXA!

What was it like playing in the reboot of the

a place where that works! For the actual scene

you prepare for your role?

video and I was like - that’s it! It was the right

hit series, “And Just Like That…"? How did

It was so amazing.

kind of cringy cool vibe.

It’s just an iconic show

and I am so honored and proud to be a part

Being one of the youngest on set, what do

on the streets of New York - I realized there

differed from the more experienced actors?

just walk by the cameras. They were taking

I think I brought the knowledge of kids today

how much love there is for the show in New

And also today’s culture - like music.

I really saw the city part. About preparing -

I guess I am a kid so I have the street cred for

original show. And we started and - we kind

cool film makers - we’ve done a lot of stuff

eleven when I first auditioned. So I’m going to

local film programs and so it’s nice to know

For the audition itself - my mom and I work on

Also - there are so many stories on Tik Tok and

were all mother daughter scenes so we could

so steeped in today’s culture.

important story scenes were there - the scene

Did you learn any valuable lessons?

feel like a girl and also the Tik Tok scene. I

I learned so many! From Cynthia Nixon - who

gaming and also the fact that Tik Tok is where

you have a scene where you eat a sandwich

I loved the Tik Tok scene - I had been doing

on you! Because you don’t have to eat very

mom was like - great - let’s USE that - finally -

camera - you don’t have to eat at all. From

of it!

The first time we filmed on location

were so many fans - people were excited to

you believe you brought to the table that

videos and posting and it was so cool to see

- how we speak and how we communicate.

York. Of course, it’s Sex and the City - and

whole familiarity with gaming and Tik Tok and

my dad was like - let’s watch the pilot of the

that.

of realized it wasn’t for my age group - I was

with students at NYU and Columbia and other

wait until I’m fifteen to watch the entire show.

the stories that young people are telling today.

auditions together. And the audition scenes

Instagram and I think a lot of kids my age are

really relate to them. Actually - some of the

where Rock/Rose tells Charlotte they don't

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when we filmed it - we found this Justin Bieber

The

And also I’ve been working a lot with

could really relate to the relationship and the

directed an episode - I learned that when

my peers and I say some important things first.

- you should be aware whether the camera is

this funny beard gesture for a while and my

much on each take. And when you are not on

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MPK - I learned that no detail is too small for a show runner. From SJP - I learned that you can do so many things well - like acting and running

your own amazing shoe company! From Kristin -

I learned that being a kind and warm person on

set does not mean that you can’t be very serious toward your work and that it is good to expect a

lot of yourself and others when working. Kristin was so lovely and I was so happy to play her

their parents can relate to Rock and Charlotte’s story. And maybe the child can be less afraid and

the experience can be less unknown. And same for the parents - they can be less afraid and

more familiar with that experience. So it can help people be part of a community that is accepting - to create that community.

child. Kristin is also very thoughtful - she gave

Why did you want to get into acting?

Miu mini purse. Sarah and Cynthia were all very

Ask my mom! Ha. Okay - I come from a family of

me an amazing wrap gift - this super cool Miu

kind and professional and inspiring in every way! From Molly and Danny - I learned that style

matters and that style inspirations come from

everywhere - especially street and everyday cool original people doing their thing. Also- -there are

some lessons I already know from my parents be reliable! Show up! Work hard! Stay humble!

Work harder but also take time to enjoy family and stuff you love. Like video games :)

entertainers and artists. My mom, Inna Swinton, is an actress writer and standup comedian.

My father Rolfe is a trained architect and did

photography and set design as well - he is now a tech entrepreneur. My mom’s dad - my grandfather is an amazing ballroom dancer. His mother was a singer and so is his brother. My father’s mother modeled and sang and of course - my father’s

distant cousin is Tilda Swinton. When I was three years old - my mom played with us a lot and she

Share with us a story that had a strong impact on you while filming “And Just Like That…”

and make up stories. She had some time - she was pregnant with my brother - and she thought it

I said to Kristin that I think they’d be really big if

there was social media then at the time of Sex and the City. And she said - you know - we were big,

right? Very big. Like on the covers of magazines

etcetera. And I suddenly understood - OH - of course! They were very famous. People loved the show!

saw I loved to pretend play - and sing and dance

And then we filmed outside and crowds

of New Yorkers showed up to watch - they were so excited to see the show back in town getting made - whenever we filmed anywhere - and I was like - Oh - I get it now.

would be fun for me to do a professional project.

That’s how I worked on my first film - it just happened to star Paul Giamatti and was made

by this amazing artist Matthew Barney and it was actually a zombie movie but also this crazy art

film. I didn’t really get any of that at the time - I just danced and sang with this band of children

and then had to cry when a zombie came though the wall. The zombie was this jazz musician. The movie had these Yale connections too - Matthew Barney and Paul Giamatti are Yalies and both my

parents went there. I would love to go to Yale so that’s fun. My siblings act and sing and play

Love your character’s arc. In what ways do you believe your role helps portray important current themes such as gender exploration? I think it

normalizes the idea of a child being themselves and not only cis gender. So if there is a child

that’s not cis gender - they can relate to Rock and

Bello

instruments too. My sister Ava Swinton studies at a special arts high school and my brother Maxim

Swinton is a standup comedian too and he just

did two projects with Ewan McGregor and is now working on Fleishman is in Trouble with Jesse Eisenberg.

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Do you have any sort of bucket list? Share.

And I want to travel to Japan. I haven’t been there,

Ah - yes. All the items on my bucket list are about

It’s an absolutely stunning country.

listening to her nonstop since she released her

What comes next?

but I don’t care. I would like to meet Taylor Swift!

I hope I can have my own room soon! It’s crazy

to a Taylor Swift concert./ Also I would love to

lot so we do stay in so many places but still. I

am a huge SNL fan - we have been watching that

I recently went to Miami with my sister Ava and

but - yeah.

I love to design on Sims 4 and I would love to

And also I would love to work with Andrew

game. I would love to visit Paris again - I was

incredible. I would love to do a musical.

remember we stayed at an apartment with a view

I also would love to make a movie about the

However, I think I would appreciate it all more

concentration camp in Minsk (Belarus) and also

music - check out my family Youtube channel -

family. My grandfather survived the war - he was

and our singing. I will be releasing new music

grandparents live with us - and I want to make

maybe there will be a Season 2 of Sex and the

Holocaust so that people in my generation know

about this yet. But fingers crossed. Immediate

Taylor Swift :) I am a huge Swiftie and have been album in 2021. My family is so sick of it I think

and I’m in love with their architecture and views.

And play a concert with Taylor Swift! Oh and go

but I have always shared a room. We travel a

meet Miley Cirus and Pete Davidson, definitely. I

want to have my own space and to decorate it.

as a family forever - probably not so appropriate

I loved the design district there and the colors. design a room and even a house - not in the

Garfield - I just saw Tick Tick Boom and he was

there when I was young - well - younger and I

of the Eiffel Tower and we saw it light up at night.

Holocaust. We have lost family members in the

now that I am older. Future plans with acting and

in the Riga ghetto on my mother’s side of the

The Swinton Show where we post comedy videos

a refuge in Russia. I hear these stories a lot - my

soon too and performing live. And who knows -

sure I contribute to sharing the truth about the

City although of course I haven’t heard anything

this history.

plans? School, family, skiing, and improving my Wordle stats.

Talent ALEXA SWINTON @alexaswinton Photography BRANDON LEGER Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites

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ELUJAY

ELUJAY'S DEBUT ALBUM "CIRCMVNT" IS FINALLY HERE! A PERFECT WAY TO GET HYPED ON THIS FINE TUESDAY, WE ARE EXCITED TO SHARE WITH YOU OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH THE TALENTED ARTIST. HAVING BEEN DRAWN TO THE WORLD OF CREATIVITY HIS WHOLE LIFE, ELUJAY RECOGNIZES THAT IN LIFE IT TAKES A VILLAGE AND CONTINUES TO EMBODY THAT SPIRIT IN HIS PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL LIFE. MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT HIS LATEST ALBUM AND ENJOY!

Tell us more about your debut album that is coming

Have you always wanted to be an artist? Growing

It is an album about finding specific transitions in your

I don’t think I necessarily always wanted to be an

out.

life. I made it at a point where we were finding different ways and shifts out of such a harrowing period. We

had to switch our entire mode in interpreting the world and how we go about our daily lives. So it was kind of made out of that. I don’t want to say that the album

was made out of frustration, just a general gripe that I had with how the world was shifting. It’s a dynamic

up, did you always love music as you do now?

artist. I’ve always wanted to do something creative.

When I was younger, I felt that being an artist or a singer was corny. I think I wanted to be a rapper if I

chose any creative field when I was 10. Obviously, I was into so much other stuff when I was younger, but I always thought that being a singer was corny.

album that has a lot of different sounds. It’s one of

What is one of the harshest truths you have ever

want to say before leaving this earth, this would be

I’ve had to face the truth that I can’t always do it by

those albums where if there were a few things I would an excellent album for that.

had to face? How did you overcome it?

myself, and that I need a team, whether it’s on the business end of stuff, emotional support, or even on

What does this album mean to you?

This album is my introduction to the world as an artist.

Everything that I’ve done from High School leading

up to now. I became a stronger version of myself. To me, it simply means growth. Sometimes, it’s just that simple.

Pick one of your favorite songs from the album and explain what the true meaning behind it is.

My favorite song is ‘Ratrace’ because I think that song is very anthemic of the entire album. It speaks

to the core of what the album is really about. So, it’s about this idea of feeling lonely and feeling like

it’s easier to cop out and dissociate from the world

instead of competing in this rat race of life. America is

the musical side. It comes with realizing that I can’t

always rely on myself to get shit done. I feel like it’s been a hard thing for me to face since I’m a very selfsufficient person. It bogs me down when I can’t do something on my own.

On a daily, what are ways you cope with stress/ anxiety?

I go on long hikes. I like to go on 6-8 mile hikes. It’s

my form of working out and getting cardio. If it weren’t

for any cardio, I probably would have had a terrible burnout because I was on the brink of burnout trying

to finish this record. That brought sanity and clarity in such an authentic way.

a rat race if you break down the financial institutions

With the New Year coming up, any changes you

competition, you’re competing for wealth, essentially,

I’d like to see normalcy and no covid. More festivals

and how the government regulates us. Everything is a

and I feel like the pandemic brought that out. It made people realize what’s going on, and the blinders were removed.

hope to see in the world? In your own life?

and more shows; I want to see people’s beautiful faces when I’m singing on stage. I also want to travel

and see more parts of the world. It’s been an ugly two years, so let’s get rid of that stuff!

@elujay Photo Credit KHUFU NAJEE @khufunajee Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites 63

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SHAUN

SOUTH KOREA'S VERSATILE DJ/PRODUCER AND MUSICIAN, SHAUN, HAS GOT US FEELING HYPED. OVER THE YEARS, HE HAS BEEN EVOLVING IN HIS DIFFERENT TALENTS AS HE CONTINUES TO ALSO PUT ON LIVE PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND THE WORLD. OVER THE YEARS HE HAS CONTINUED TO MAKE A NAME FOR HIMSELF IN THE WORLD OF MUSIC AND WE ARE ALL ABOUT IT! CHECK OUT OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BELOW!

What about the music industry stood out to you the most before joining it?

revealed in what was in store for us. Our

days were a continuation of making good

When my first single was released in 2017,

music, relishing our moments on stage, and

there were very few DJ/Producers who

wandering around the concert halls drunk.

Korea. I found it a shame that dance music

Time

clubs.

my bandmates, “Let’s make music that is

Therefore, I began working on music that

be appreciated on the way back home and

dance and easy listening, in hopes that I

again within the comfort of our homes. Let’s

released their own original tracks in South

was treated as music only reserved for the

passed,

and

in

the

process

of

making the band’s second album I told enjoyed not only on stage, but that can also

combined the strengths of two genres,

that can be recalled to be sung again and

could produce a sound that wasn’t confined

make that kind of song.”

be enjoyed on a daily basis.

To this day, I strive to make memorable

Around the same time, idol groups were

I shared with my members that day.

were pursuing the kind of music I was. I

Is there anything you hope you can help

to just the clubs or festivals but could also

music as I reflect on the words and resolve

immensely popular, and not many musicians believe this enabled my music to come across to the public as fresh and new.

When you began your music career, what

goals did you first have and how have they evolved?

change in the industry?

Currently, as many South Korean boy and girl groups are recognized and loved worldwide,

I thought it very possible for some people to

believe that specific part to be everything there was to Korean music.

I started my music career as a member of a band. At that time, my band members

I take great pride in the fact that many

exciting energy into our music. We weren’t

as well as underground musicians are active

and I were able to capture our fun and

65

set on a specific goal, but rather we simply

Korean indie musicians, singer-songwriters,

Winter 2022

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and delivering fresh, diverse music. I want

Favorite way to get the crowd hyped up?

many people.

I don’t really have a signature since I can

to introduce them and make them known to

I too have been active in the Korean indie

music scene, and I have a strong desire to support the passionate and hardworking

musicians who are presently persevering.

This desire pushes me to apply myself to improving and keeping my sound fresh.

just play the music I’ve made and edited.

While it is definitely fun to play one genre of music, personally, it feels more interesting to mix a variety of music spanning multiple

genres. Of course, this in turn enriches the experience to be much more colorful and enjoyable for the listeners as well.

Share with us what your music means to

Growing up, what was one of your favorite

When I make music, I feel comfortable as

I’ve loved movie soundtracks since I was

you and what you aim for while creating.

though I’m home. Without it, I would not

be able to explain my life thus far, who I am now, or even imagine who I’ll be in the

future. I’ve set a simple and clear goal for myself: “To make good music that brings me joy while I’m making it.”

music experiences and why?

young. Growing up, my parents’ CD collection

consisted of numerous original soundtracks for movies. I really liked how listening to a

certain song from the album could evoke the specific aura and atmosphere of the

movie the soundtrack was made for. To this

DJ, musician, and producer. Tell us more about each “hat” you wear!

day, whenever I watch a movie that deeply resonates with me, I always find its original soundtrack to listen to again.

I think the producer part of me plays

What comes next in 2022?

envisioning and bringing to life a concept

Beginning with my upcoming collaboration

the biggest role. I find great pleasure in

or picture I’d drawn out in my mind. As a

musician, I’m able to find joy in singing

and playing my music to those who like it.

The joy I feel while performing as a band is especially great. Lastly, as a DJ, there is

a certain gratification and appeal in having people dance and move to the music I’ve chosen and mixed with my own fingers. All

three of them delight me in a very different way that I can’t let go of any of them.

Considering my various roles, I make every effort to fulfill each one.

track with YUNA in February, I have plans to continually release music for March,

April, and May. In general, I wish to deliver many releases this year. If possible, I would

also like to go on tour and hold concerts. I sincerely hope that I will be able to meet all

my fans around the world, who consistently

shower me with love and interest, in person and perform my music in front of them. In my spare time, I upload various content on my YouTube channel and Twitch in order

to communicate with my fans. I want to be

What is your signature while you DJ?

able to continue this and reach out through streaming.

Talent SHAUN Photo Credit 285, WARNER MUSIC KOREA Interview ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites

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LILLY KRUG

STARRING IN SHATTERED, LILLY KRUG PLAYS THE ROLE OF SKY WHO SHE PREPPED INTENSELY FOR. HAVING HAD SUCH AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE ON SET, THE ACTRESS DID WEEKS OF STUNT TRAINING AND IN-DEPTH PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH ABOUT THE PSYCHIC OF HER CHARACTER. FACING HER FEARS AND FINDING WAYS TO OVERCOME THEM, LILLY IS TRULY AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL. REMINDING US TO STAY TRUE TO OURSELVES AND LISTEN TO WHAT OUR BODY, MIND, AND SOUL NEED, IT'S IMPORTANT TO DO SO AS WE HAVE EACH OTHER'S BACK BETTER THAN ANYONE ELSE! ACTING BRINGS LILLY KRUG A SENSE OF PURPOSE AND WE ARE EXCITED TO SEE WHAT COMES NEXT!

Congratulations

on

your

role

in

SHATTERED! How did you prepare for this role?

seeds of the script to seeing the finished project. It is enthralling to tell a story and

shape the way it comes together. You get to

Thank you! It was a fascinating journey to

build a relationship with the audience and

begin to tell you how much fun it was. I did

of your character. To collaborate and work

to use every object as a weapon and did

the most rewarding experiences and it’s the

explore Sky and her world, and I cannot

take them on an emotional rollercoaster

four weeks of stunt training where I learned

hard to see your idea come to life is one of

in depth psychological research about the

creation that is so much fun.

I did, the more I could empathize with her

Do you recall a conversation with someone

psychic of my character. The more research and the more loveable she became. There

on set that had a strong impact on you?

of childhood trauma. In a way, SHATTERED

This one is a tough question to answer.

power back. When she breaks free from her

set, and I learned something new every day.

in a way she has never felt before the only

Luis Prieto, who pushed me to portray

how she has experienced it; abuse. It was

hearted character. Another very impacting

that aggressive, angry, and psychologically

taught me that in real life we try to control or

that is what I love about this job!

I constantly remind myself of that. Rather

In what ways did this project shift your

often try to hide your true feelings, which

is a vulnerable side to her, that carries a lot tells the story of her trying to gain her

There were so many inspiring people on

abusive stepfather and experiences love

It was an honor working with our director,

way she knows how to show love is through

an unfiltered, unapologetic and yet light-

a challenging role to take on, I had to find

conversation was with John Malkovich who

broken part of her in me and vice versa. But

stop emotion rather than showing emotion.

perception on being an actress/ in the industry?

Shattered

than playing an emotion or moment, you makes the acting a lot more natural.

Is this your first thriller? What drew you also

re-emphasized

the

importance of teamwork to me. There is no

69

a vision to life. All the way from the initial

to audition?

feeling that compares to dozens of people

I had a small part in a thriller called Every

all eager to see a story come to life. The

thrillers in general is the suspense and the

meet is one of the biggest pleasures. It

what really drove me to Shattered was the

working together, towards a creative vision,

Breath You Take. What fascinates me about

collaboration and the people you get to

pace of the story. It’s nerve tingling! However,

also deepened my appreciation of bringing

interplay of the love between Chris and Sky,

Winter 2022

Bello

why Sky acts the way she does, and how she uses her attraction and feminine ways to lure him in. In a way it is a feminine story of a girl

that uses all her assets available to make the

most of the life she seems possible. The genre

bending of romance, horror, action, and dark humor is what makes Shattered stand out and immediately got me to audition for the film.

What is a fear of yours and how do you overcome it?

The Plane is also filled with a lot of emotions!

It is an action movie packed with a few

unexpected turns and tells the story of how a pilot who guides the people in his surrounding

to survival, but also find his strength and purpose for life again. The audience can expect an emotional ride and a gripping movie where

they can’t look away. My character, Brie, is traveling the world with her best friend, when they find themselves on a plane about to crash on New Year’s, and it is a brutal journey to

Some fears are more difficult to face, such

as certain emotional fears, that take a lot of strength to overcome and a willingness to confront those. I used to have a fear of being

alone, and now I know that time alone is actually very precious and valuable. In order to

learn how to not feel alone while being alone, I decided to hike Kilimanjaro alone at the age

of 18. Without knowing anyone before landing

in South Africa, and not having cell service for

10 days, I learned there’s something beautiful

about getting to know oneself on a deeper level and appreciate the time you have with

yourself. Another fear I used to have was of the deep ocean. But very early on in my life, I

learned that the only way to overcome a fear is to grow through it. To try to witness it and

experience that it may be irrational. Hence, quite early on I decided I wanted to try scuba diving and got my first license at 12 years old.

Ever since I fall in love with the ocean more

every day. Now I am fascinated by the depth of the ocean, the animals, and the ecosystem

underwater. That taught me that fears can be transformed into something beautiful.

maturity for both characters.

How

does

SHATTERED?

this

project

differ

from

The Plane is an action driven movie, where the events drive the plot and continue to place the characters in challenging situations.

Shattered, on the other hand, is more character driven, as the audience never knows what Sky

is up to next. However, with both movies, the

audience cannot anticipate what will happen next. What will Sky do next in Shattered, or what will happen to Brie in The Plane?

Do you believe you have found your purpose? explain.

Yes. I believe acting is my purpose because

it does not feel like a job. I remember one

day, we were driving home after an extremely long night shoot on Shattered, the sun just

started rising and the driver asked me how I was feeling. All I answered was: “I’m pretty

exhausted, but today was one of the best days of my life.” There is nothing more thrilling to

Tell us more about your upcoming role in THE PLANE. What can the audience expect?

me than bringing a story to life. I always seek opportunities and projects out of my comfort zone that allows me to continuously grow.

@lillykrug Photographer: KRISTIN GALLEGOS @kristingallegos Makeup: LOREN CANBY @lorencanbymakeup Hair: KYLEE HEATH @kyleeheathhair Styling: LUCY WARREN @lucywarrenstyle Interview: ALEXANDRA BONNET @alexbonnetwrites Special thanks to SLATE PR @slatepr @lindsaymaguire @polisg

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Photo PARRISH FREEMAN

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Photo MAX VAN DEN OETELAAR

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#218

WINTER 2022

FREYA ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDER BEER

ISSN 2769-5077

DIG