The psychological aspect of [The Invisible Man] was fascinating. My character Cecilia has so much going on mentally that she has to deal with. I had to tap into a variety of emotions.
The great thing about [The Invisible Man director] Leigh Whannell’s work is that it’s not the stereotypical jumps and scares of the horror genre. What he does really gets into the mind of the viewer. He is just fantastic to work with, as there is so much complexity to what he does.
I love my work and the roles I’ve had. While I need to give my best to those roles, I don’t think I am doing anything especially brave.
Studying ballet in New York [when I was young] was an absolutely magical experience, and [it] started my love affair with the city. I lived in the dorms at the Lincoln Center and my view was of the Metropolitan Opera House. Ballet is performing, acting is performing, theatre is performing. I am sure in some ways it helped [my practice].
Honestly, I never envisioned Peggy [the character I played in Mad Men] being so popular. I’ve always said that I’m extremely proud of Peggy – she got super cool and a little bit badass as the seasons went on, and I loved that about her.
The Handmaid’s Tale has feminist themes for sure, and I always want my characters to end up representing those values. We are living in a time where we have to fight for our rights. If any inspiration can be provided through my work, then that’s a positive.
There are so many filmmakers I admire and many I have been fortunate enough to work with already, but I would love to work with the Coen brothers. I also think it would be incredibly cool to do a musical, something like Sunset Boulevard that requires acting and singing.
I handle fame [and constantly being in the public eye] by surrounding myself with people that I love and trust, and that’s usually family and friends I have known for years. It is so important to do that, and to know that any opinions or advice they may have for you are for your greater good.
[On long haul flights] it’s so important to have good quality products for your skin. Music is necessary too. I always make sure I have some good playlists as well.
I would love to tell you about my New York. Cafe Fiorello opposite the Lincoln Center is an amazing place to eat; visit the Metropolitan Opera House even if opera isn’t your thing; and stay at the Bowery Hotel in the East Village.
Rather than just [having] a checklist of what you want to see [while travelling], really take the time to appreciate your surroundings. Last winter, I was walking across Central Park by the ice rink and it was twilight. I just stopped and had one of those magical New York moments, admiring how beautiful my surroundings were. When you are in special places, make sure you have time to stop and appreciate them.
Twinkling night-time places in New York
Ophelia
Located on the 26th floor of the historic Art Deco Beekman Tower, the low-light interior makes it a great spot to catch views of the city’s iconic skyline.
Staten Island Ferry
You can admire the stunning city lights from the deck of a boat gliding across moonlit waters. The route also passes by the illuminated Statue of Liberty.
The Mermaid Inn
A table out front at this seafood bar in the East Village is perfect for enjoying good food and spotting little moments on the street with a loved one.
To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: Interview: David Chang dishes on celebrity guests and life as a restaurateur
This article was originally published in the February 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine
