_{From Summer Issue 58}

Some stories demand to be told. Others have been shared, yet they fall on deaf ears. Zoë Kravitz’s directorial debut, Blink Twice, is set to command attention. This is precisely what Naomi Ackie also intended to achieve when she took on the project.

When Ackie steps into a role, she transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Her latest venture in the high-stakes world of Hollywood is no exception. Starring alongside Channing Tatum, she plays Frida, a cocktail waitress whose life takes a surreal turn when she captures the eye of tech billionaire Slater King at his opulent fundraising gala.

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

An invitation to his private island promises a dream vacation – a paradise where wild nights seamlessly merge into sun-soaked days and laughter seems endless. Yet, as the idyllic days unfold, Frida senses an unsettling undercurrent. Strange occurrences hint at a darker reality beneath the surface of this luxurious escape. In this gripping narrative, Ackie’s character must unravel the island’s secrets to survive.

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

Ackie’s rise to fame has been nothing short of meteoric. With a background in theatre and a breakout role in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, she swiftly established herself as a talent to watch. Her performances in critically acclaimed films like Lady Macbeth and the TV series The End of the F***ing World have showcased her range and depth, earning her accolades and a dedicated following. As she continues to take on diverse and challenging roles, Ackie proves time and again that she is on the cusp of becoming a formidable force in the entertainment industry.

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

Her latest role is set to propel her to new heights. She’s now tackling a character that navigates the powerplays of wealthy men who exploit vulnerable women, all while dismantling the falsehood that women are powerless in these situations.

“There’s a halo effect around people with money, influence and power, making you feel safe because they are powerful, and you can have a touch of whatever they have,” the 32-year-old actor begins.

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

She’s currently packing for a trip to Mexico, an unfortunate time to be drawn out of holiday mode into a lengthy discussion about the patriarchy. But ultimately, the damage is done by good people who stay silent, not by bad people who do harm. When it comes to Blink Twice, the topic of women’s safety is crucial and pivotal to the storyline. 

What were Ackie’s thoughts when first approached by her agents with the project? After all, she took on the role of a woman who shows vulnerability and then has to fight for her life. “Well, I think the first thing I remember was my agents coming to me and saying, ‘Zoe Kravitz wants to talk to you about a film called Pussy Island’.  And I was like, ‘Pussy what?’,” she laughs. “I thought, well, it looks like I’m doing a film called Pussy Island, and she had me by the title. I know the title has changed now because it’s like the end of the world to say ‘pussy’ in public.”  

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

Blink Twice doesn’t shy away from examining the dangerous allure of power and the often misplaced blame on victims. It’s the vision behind the storyline. “We see this happening a lot,” Ackie nods in agreement.

“There’s a constant conversation around power and people’s attraction to it, and how power can be taken advantage of. From the outside, you might think, ‘of course, you don’t go to a private island with someone you don’t know’. Unfortunately, the conversation often blames the victim – it’s your fault for going, so whatever happens to you is on you.”

Society teaches women to feel guilt for trusting, shame for not knowing better and powerlessness when trying to speak out, while absolving perpetrators of all accountability. “There’s something to be said about being aware of your surroundings and knowing that you are vulnerable in certain situations. There’s an excessive focus on what we have to do to protect ourselves instead of what perpetrators have to do to, maybe just not fucking do it,” Ackie echoes. 

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

In Blink Twice, the climax is gripping and flips the powerplay on its head. Women do take control of the island. “Then, all the women take very justified revenge on these men. Some horrific things have been happening that they weren’t fully aware of, and it’s about how these women try to get off this island,” the actor continues.

Ultimately, Kravitz’s vision was pivotal in redefining the thriller genre. As Ackie says, she’s had a vision for the movie for ages. “She’s very specific and has thought about this idea for years. So when it came time to make it, she was really clear on what she wanted to say. The film has many different facets. Once you see it, you’ll notice the care and joy she has taken in piecing this story together and creating a real experience.”

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

The film also tackles the motivations behind harmful actions. Why would anyone want to take advantage of women? Why are we hurting one another? Is it power? Is it ego? Or is it purely a personal agenda depending on the individual? “We have to be flexible around the fact that there are people in the world who just want to hurt others for their sick reasons,” Ackie notes.

“Without understanding where that comes from and why it exists, it’s like putting a plaster over a really big wound. It doesn’t fix the issue.” The actor hits the nail on the head with her last line. Understanding is a plaster; fixing it entails going to the root of the issue. But seeing these scenarios develop more frequently on screen does help with spreading awareness.

Blink Twice aims to shift the perspective, placing viewers in the shoes of vulnerable individuals and illustrating their journeys through harrowing experiences. “This film tries to approach it from that end, putting people into the place of being that young person who doesn’t realise they can be taken advantage of in that way and watching them go through that journey,” Ackie explains.

The tone of the film masterfully blends horror with a sharp, irreverent edge. Ackie describes this unique balance, saying, “The tone is very interesting. Zoe has come up with this tone that is both harrowing and quiet. Irreverent is the right word. It’s very dark humour. There are moments where you’re like, ‘Oh my God, hasn’t every woman been in this situation?’”

_{Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz}

Reflecting on personal and collective experiences, Ackie highlights the film’s relatability. “Maybe not this specific situation, but a situation where you’re like, ‘I should not have come here’ or ‘I don’t feel safe’. When you look back, there were many moments with red flags but you were taken by the moment. All those distractions can blind you to the red flags.”

Only through collective awareness and a willingness to change narratives for women worldwide can we actively achieve change. Both Kravitz and Ackie are paving a new path for women on the silver screen. Sometimes, you need horror before you find peace.

by Adina ilie

Photographer: Rosaline Shahnavaz

Senior Fashion Editor: Lily Rimmer

Hair: Lauraine Bailey using THIS HAIR OF MINE and DYSON HAIR PRO

Makeup: Lucy Wearing using NARS COSMETICS

Manicurist: Jada Elize using CHANEL Le Vernis in Rouge Noir and CHANEL Le Lift Hand cream

Movement director: Liam John

Photography assistant: Henry Hewitt

Styling assistant: Sabrina Raso

Photography intern: Yasemin Özdemir

Talent: Naomi Ackie

Special thanks to Thomas Conant and Joanna Goodman for props

_{Look 1: Dress BURBERRY}

_{Look 2: Vest SESSÙN}

_{Look 3: Vest SESSÙN, Belt FCS at RELLIK, Skirt JUNYA WATANABE at RELLIK}

_{Look 4: Corset ROWEN ROSE at KOIBIRD, Skirt TOVE STUDIO}

_{Look 5: Top LOEWE}

_{Look 6:  Top, skirt ALAÏA, Belt ALLSAINTS, Shoes KALDA}

_{Look 7: Jumper, cardigan CHANEL, Belt LOUIS VUITTON, Skirt ELISSA POPPY}

_{Look 8: Vest ONITSUKA TIGER, Belt ALAÏA, Skirt LURLINE}

_{All jewellery CARTIER}

The post Naomi Ackie talks to Glass about redefining the thriller genre first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Less polished, more raw, this corner of Italy feels untouched by time. It’s as though the land here moves to a slower, quieter rhythm. At the heart of it lies L’Andana, a former Medici villa tucked in the rolling hills just a short drive from the Tyrrhenian Sea.

_L’Andana

Arriving at L’Andana feels like stepping into a living painting. The landscape stretches out in lush green waves, dotted with ancient olive trees. The air is different here—crisp and clear, inviting you to take a deep breath and savour the moment. The villa itself, once a retreat for Grand Duke Leopold II and his court, still holds that sense of history. But now, it offers something subtler—a luxury that feels less like a hotel and more like a friend’s private estate.

_L’Andana

The weekend begins with a quiet cycle through the estate’s vineyard. The vintage bike, the gravel paths, and the golden light cast by the setting sun make it feel like time has slowed. On this 500-hectare property, the world outside feels distant, even nonexistent.

As I ride deeper into the land, I pass La Scuderia—an elegant four-bedroom villa built in the former stables. Its beauty is secluded, almost secret. The views here, of rolling hills and distant peaks, are breathtaking, but it’s the silence that leaves the strongest impression. There’s something meditative in the stillness.

After a relaxed lunch at La Villa, the hotel’s more casual restaurant, I make my way to the ESPA spa. The treatments are exactly what I need—restorative, subtle, and soothing. The vitality pool eases my muscles, while the tranquil environment wraps around me like a gentle embrace. Soft music, the scent of lavender and citrus, and the quiet hum of the space make it easy to lose track of time. But the garden calls me next.

_L’Andana

The spa’s surrounding garden feels like a dream—wild yet perfectly curated. Fragrant roses spill over stone walls, while ancient cypress trees cast long shadows over manicured lawns. It’s an oasis of calm, a place to stop and breathe, or simply admire the beauty in its quiet, fleeting form.

Dinner that evening is a celebration of Tuscany’s finest produce. At La Trattoria Enrico Bartolini, each dish is a masterpiece: creamy burrata, and slow-cooked meats, all infused with the essence of the land. The atmosphere is understated, yet elegant, a perfect extension of the surrounding beauty—intimate, refined, and comfortable.

_L’Andana

As the weekend draws to a close, I take one last stroll through the estate. L’Andana has a way of anchoring you in the present, while quietly whispering the stories of the past. With its blend of natural beauty, timeless elegance, and authentic Tuscan spirit, it’s no wonder the Italians themselves consider this a hidden gem.

Unpretentious, yet sophisticated; secluded, yet indulgent. As I prepare to leave, there’s a sense of reluctance. But I know I’ll return. Tuscany has a way of capturing the heart—and L’Andana embodies that magic perfectly.

by Adina Ilie

_{L’Andana, Tuscany, offers double rooms from €440 per night based on two sharing, including breakfast. You can book your stay at www.andana.it} 

The post Glass experiences a weekend escape in Tuscany’s L’Andana first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Currently on stage in Robert Icke’s Oedipus in the West End, Alfonso Cuarón’s Disclaimer on Apple TV+, The Critic in UK cinemas and soon in Luca Guadagnino’s next feature film, Queer; the British actor is far from easing off the gas – in fact she’s in the fast lane.

For GLASS’ Autumn Issue, she sits down with us during rehearsals to reflect on her favoured ability to never be typecast and her knack for staying at arms-length with all her characters.

_{Photographer: @silvanatrevale
Stylist: @stephwilsonstyling
Makeup: @amanda.grossman using @twelvebeauty and @saiebeauty
Hair: @naradkutowaroo using @unite_hair
Set Designer: @helenmacintvre
Seamstress: @sophie_stonver
Cinematographer: @donnydop
Sound Design & Editing: @jleofilm
Colour grading: @sergioporrascolorist
Producer: @luciomartus
Photography assistant: @austnfischer
Styling assistant: @rozdonoghue
Interview: @imogenclark_
Talent: #LesleyManville
All clothing and accessories: @loewe}

The post Behind-the-scenes with Lesley Manville first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

I imagined long, leisurely afternoons with books, perhaps a bit of reflective journaling, and minimal interruption from the outside world. Fast forward to now, and here I am, planted into a seat on a Thai Airways flight to Phuket for Banyan Tree’s 30th anniversary. Isn’t it just typical? Life has a way of reminding you that you can’t control your journey. Or at least I can’t. 

_{Banyan Tree Phuket}

As soon as I settle into my seat, the Thai Airways staff make me feel like I’ve arrived at a five-star dinner party. The kind of hospitality where you’re not even aware you need something until it magically appears. The flight, which is meant to be a marathon of 18 hours, actually feels more like a slow introduction to a transformative journey. 

Phuket has the kind of tropical scene you only see in postcards. Lush greenery, cerulean skies, and the promise of a time so idyllic, it might as well come with its own soundtrack. And my villa at Banyan Tree? Well, let’s just say the pictures didn’t do it justice or I need new glasses.

Some places manage to combine intimacy with expansion in a manner that they feel designed personally for yourself. Which they might have been. I have my name on the villa, so I can just declare it my home for the foreseeable. I’ve always wanted to briefly own a luxury holiday home in Thailand, and now I do. Even if it’s just for a few days. 

_{Banyan Tree Phuket}

The resort itself is sprawling, with 218 private pool villas, each one more charming than the last, nestled among beautifully landscaped gardens, all hugging the edge of a lagoon that looks like it belongs in a dream. It’s the kind of place that makes you wonder whether you’re actually supposed to be this relaxed. But, really, it’s the perfect spot to celebrate Banyan Tree’s anniversary, especially given how much the brand has always been about giving back—not just to its guests, but to the environment and the local community.

This isn’t just a resort—it’s got a history. The idea for Banyan Tree began with Ho Kwon Ping and Claire Chiang, who, years ago, lived in  Banyan Tree Bay and travelled all over the world when they were young and in love. Their experience sparked an epiphany: travel isn’t just about escaping—it’s about transformation.

It’s about making connections, with people and with the planet. And from this epiphany, Banyan Tree Phuket was born, with the banyan tree itself becoming a symbol of refuge. The idea was simple: a place where travellers could find shelter, feel restored, and maybe even change the world a little. If only all epiphanies could look this good.

_{Banyan Tree Phuket}

The lagoon, where this beautiful oasis now sits, was once an abandoned tin mine. Imagine the transformation—a scar on the earth turned into a thriving ecosystem. It’s proof that with a little vision and an awful lot of hard work, even the most unlikely places can be turned into something magnificent.

The first day is an immersion into everything Banyan Tree does best. I hop on a bicycle on my way to the meditation centre, pedalling past the immaculate golf course. I feel like I’ve stumbled onto the set of The Blue Lagoon and they just happened to let me in. This place isn’t just a resort, it’s a kingdom. And the meditation session? It’s not so much about clearing your mind, it’s more about letting the serenity of the place sink in. By the time I’m finished, I’m practically an oracle. Or at least, I can pretend to be.

_{Banyan Tree Phuket}

The second day brings volunteering at a local school. I’m impressed by how Banyan Tree’s commitment to the community goes beyond the standard corporate “donate a few thousand pounds” kind of thing. No, here it’s about rolling up your sleeves and investing time and effort into the community’s future. After the school visit, we go for a boat trip to the islands where they filmed James Bond.

Naturally, I half expect Sean Connery to pop out from behind a rock, but alas, it’s just us and a lot of beautiful scenery. The islands, though—good grief. The towering limestone cliffs rise out of the water like nature’s own jagged skyscrapers. You almost expect a helicopter to swoop in and whisk you off to your next adventure.

By day three, the place is starting to work its magic on me. The monks arrive early in the morning for a traditional alms-giving ceremony, and there’s something so peaceful about the whole ritual. The saffron robes, the quiet procession—everything about it feels grounded, connected to something bigger than ourselves. It’s a moment of calm that you didn’t realise you needed, and yet here it is, reminding you that travel is also about gratitude.

_{Banyan Tree Phuket}

What’s truly impressive throughout these few days is the balance between luxury and purpose. Banyan Tree Phuket isn’t just about pampering you with a 5-star massage or a sunset cocktail. It’s about making sure that luxury doesn’t come at the expense of the community or the environment.

From supporting local artisans to running beach clean-ups, Banyan Tree is deeply embedded in the fabric of Phuket. And their Community Seedlings Project, which trains and employs underprivileged students, shows they’re investing in the future, not just their bottom line.

_{Banyan Tree Phuket}

By the end of my stay, I’m left with a sense that Banyan Tree Phuket has done what the best kind of places do: it’s shifted something inside me. It’s not just about indulging in luxury; it’s about connecting to a place in a way that feels meaningful. I’m not just a guest here; I’m part of something larger, and it’s a rare thing to find a place that makes you feel this way. I’ve realised that, sometimes, the best trips don’t just leave you relaxed—they leave you a little bit better. 

by Adina Ilie

_{Thai Airways International operates 2 daily flights from London Heathrow to Phuket via Bangkok. London to Phuket return, from £1,019 pp all in, in economy class, and from £4,663 pp all in in Royal Silk class. Book at www.thaiairways.com}

_{Banyan Tree Phuket is located at 33/27 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay,Amphur Talan Phuket, Thailand 83110. For more information you can email phuket@banyantree.com}

The post Glass experiences luxury with purpose at the Banyan Tree Phuket 30th Anniversary first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

This new product in the Capture Totale line is designed to rejuvenate skin and enhance surface quality for a visibly youthful and radiant complexion. Inspired by aesthetic medicine, Dior is pioneering a new approach in skincare, integrating advanced technologies that address skin ageing at the cellular level.

_{Dior Capture Totale Retishot}

Following the release of Capture Totale Hyalushot in early 2024, a wrinkle-targeting treatment, Dior is expanding its “derma-shots” range with Retishot. The latest formula aims to regenerate the skin and provide a more even texture, offering intensive results for those seeking effective anti-ageing solutions.

For over twenty years, Dior Science has led research into stem cell behaviour in skin ageing. It was discovered that stem cells lose their anchorage at the dermo-epidermal junction with age. This insight has shaped Dior’s innovative approach to skincare, which focuses on re-anchoring stem cells to promote cell renewal and improve skin quality.

Capture Totale Retishot combines [H.P.] Retinol, a high-performance form of retinol, with longoza extract, known for its regenerative properties. Together, they support skin renewal, visibly reducing signs of ageing. With this launch, Dior continues to push the boundaries of luxury skincare, bridging traditional beauty and advanced cosmetic science.

by Adina Ilie

The post Dior Beauty introduces Capture Totale Retishot – a breakthrough in anti-aging skincare first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Now, with Dune: Prophecy on the horizon, Shalom talks about stepping into an epic new universe and how its powerful themes hit close to home.

_{Photographer/Director: @jasonhetheringtonstudio
Fashion Director: @katiefelstead
Beauty Director: @kimbrownmakeup using @chanel.beauty
Hair: @earlsimms2 using @schwarzkopfprouk
Manicurist: @charlyavenell using @chanel.beauty
Photography assistant: @alfie_bungay
Styling assistant: @yeeyancheng
Interview: @chido.obasi
Talent: @shalombrunefranklin
All clothing and accessories: @chanelofficial}

The post Behind-the-scenes with Shalom Brune-Franklin first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Both titles provide a deep dive into the history, culture, and vibrant energy of these famed locations.

_{Scottish actor Sean Connery relaxes on the set of the James Bond film ‘Diamonds Are Forever’, USA, May 1971. He is reading the 12th April 1971 edition of ‘TIME’ magazine, with Lieutenant William Calley Jr. on the cover. (Photo by Anwar Hussein/Getty Images)}

Las Vegas Magic captures the evolution of the city, showcasing its transformation from a stopover in the Mojave Desert into the world’s entertainment capital. With stunning images of neon lights, world-class entertainers, luxury dining, and cutting-edge attractions, the book offers a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving city that never sleeps.

_{Spectators watch from the stand as a contestant rides a bucking horse at the Palm Springs Mounted Police Rodeo, Palm Springs, California, January 1970. (Photo by Slim Aarons/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)}

Palm Springs explores the laid-back charm and architectural brilliance of this California oasis, synonymous with mid-century modern design. The book features snapshots of the city’s celebrity past, its iconic desert landscape, and cultural highlights like the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and the contemporary Desert X exhibition.

_{PALM SPRINGS, CA – APRIL 19: Singer Frank Sinatra attends Third Annual Chuck Connors Charity Invitational Golf Tournament on April 19, 1969 at the Palm Springs Golf Course in Palm Springs, California. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./WireImage)}

_{LAS VEGAS – 1967: A photo montage (created in the darkroom by layering negatives together) of the Las Vegas Strip, featuring the Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel and Casino, the Stardust Resort and Casino, and the Stardust Grand Prix, in 1967 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by David Attie/Getty Images)}

Both books are brought to life by authors with deep ties to their subjects. Abowitz, a Nevada Press Award-winning journalist, and Hamilton, an Emmy Award-winning writer, provide rich storytelling to accompany the captivating visuals, making these titles perfect for design and travel enthusiasts alike.

by Adina Ilie

The post Delving into the desert; Assouline launches Las Vegas Magic and Palm Springs first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The collection features limited edition runs of the award-winning ‘Source’ red and ‘Source’ white wines, adorned with exclusive labels illustrated by Ridley Scott. The labels are inspired by Roman emperors Caracalla and Geta, depicted in the film, with Scott’s whimsical sketches capturing the essence of each brother. The red wine is dedicated to Caracalla, while the white honours Geta.

For collectors and film fans, an even rarer offering is available: the Imperatores magnum of Ombre de Lune red. Only 100 numbered bottles will be produced, each coming in a luxury box with a commemorative card signed by Scott and a prop coin from the movie. The magnum’s label also features Scott’s illustrations of the two emperors.

Fans attending Gladiator 2 screenings at The Cinema at Selfridges from 15 November can enjoy the wines at the cinema bar, completing the ultimate viewing experience.

by Adina Ilie

The post Ridley Scott’s vineyard unveils Gladiator 2-themed wine collection ahead of film release first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

From the moment he arrived on set, Chase brought a calm yet magnetic energy, embodying the resilience and determination that has defined his journey. His path to success wasn’t easy—he overcame personal struggles and career setbacks to become the star of Netflix’s Outer Banks.

Now, standing in front of the camera, Chase reflects a sense of purpose and gratitude, carrying the weight of his experiences with grace. It’s more than his image; it’s about the essence of a man who’s risen above challenges to become a true force in Hollywood.

_{Director: @nadavheyman
Creative: @ssam_kim
DP: @ryanramsey
Stylist: @avoyermagyan
Grooming: @catherinefurniss
Art Director: @Evan.would
Producer: @jesilerae @etal.creative
Music: @ultrafoxx_
Talent: @hichasestokes}

The post Behind-the-scenes with Chase Stokes first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The CellLift Serum offers ultra-tightening and plumping effects, immediately smoothing the skin, filling fine lines, and evening out skin texture. Formulated with CytoPep Cellular Extracts, the serum revitalises and moisturises the skin for a glowing, youthful appearance.

Users are instructed to apply the serum morning and evening with a pipette, massaging it into the face and neck after cleansing. Allow 1-2 minutes for it to dry before following with CellLift Cream for optimal results.

The CellLift Cream is an intensely revitalising and densifying product that firms and moisturises the skin while smoothing out texture and providing volume. It fills wrinkles and leaves the skin with a supple, even finish. Like the serum, it contains the signature CytoPep Cellular Extracts, a potent blend of peptides and skin proteins, including collagen, that improve skin elasticity and firmness. Apply morning and night, massaging gently into the face and neck.

Both products exemplify Cellcosmet’s commitment to combining cutting-edge cellular technology with luxurious skincare to meet the needs of even the most demanding skin.

by Adina Ilie

_{Available at Harrods and www.cellcosmet-cellmen.co.uk, CellLift Serum is priced at £440 (30ml), and CellLift Cream at £490 (50ml).}

The post Cellcosmet launches CellLift Serum and CellLift Cream for ultra-tightening skincare first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Created by renowned perfumers Dora Baghriche and Daphné Bugey, the fragrance reimagines the floral essence of All of Me. It blends the signature rose-geranium accord with pure white musks, enriched by new notes of black iris and vanilla pod absolute. The composition opens with powdery black iris and jasmine sambac, leading to a heart of rose centifolia and geranium bourbon, before settling into warm sandalwood and sensual musks.

The fragrance is housed in a curvilinear, architectural bottle with a rose-tinted gradient, intensifying to a smoky rose at its base. Sustainability is key, with the bottle crafted from 15% recycled glass and designed for refilling. Certified vegan, the fragrance features 90% naturally derived ingredients, with responsibly sourced geranium bourbon from Réunion and rose centifolia from Grasse.

Argentinian model Mica Argañaraz stars in the campaign, embodying the scent’s spirit of confidence and individuality. The campaign, shot by Sølve Sundsbø, captures the intense euphoria of All of Me Eau de Parfum Intense, set to a classical score by Ludovico Einaudi.

by Adina Ilie

_{Available from 1^st September, retail price £132.00 (90ml)}

The post Narciso Rodriguez unveils All of Me Eau de Parfum Intense first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Glass speaks to up-and-coming British actor Freya Allan on her new role in Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes that puts modern humanity in a whole new light

At the tender age of 22, Freya Allan is already on the path to becoming a household name in cinema. Transitioning from Netflix onto the big screen is no easy step for an actor.

Yet she’s jumped from fantasy drama The Witcher next to Henry Cavill to co-starring in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, the latest addition to the Planet of the Apes franchise, where she takes on the human role of Nova. Defining a new future for apes and humans like never before, the highly anticipated film has been directed by Wes Ball and also stars Owen Teague and Kevin Durand.

_{Photographer: Tom J. Johnson}

Ball revitalises the storyline, set many generations beyond Caesar’s era, the original ape. In the revival, apes reign supreme in harmony while humans dwell in obscurity. Amid the rise of a tyrannical ape leader and the burgeoning of his empire, a young ape, Noa, played by Owen Teague, embarks on a perilous odyssey. This journey prompts him to challenge the foundations of his understanding of history, leading him to make pivotal decisions that will shape the destiny of both apes and humans.

As Nova, Allan takes on the mantle of becoming the audience’s eyes into a romanticised post-climate change future. The experience of playing the other side of a power-play was no easy task. The majority of the cast had undergone ‘ape school’, so finding common ground with her castmates was one of the first challenges that Allan encountered while stepping into this, the fourth instalment of the franchise.

“I remember entering a dungeon where they were, like, doing this ape school, and just hearing all these ape noises,” the young actress recalls. “I think they were two weeks into the process or something. Then, on the second day, I went in and spent time with them because they kind of just wanted to make me feel included, even though I didn’t have physical stuff to prepare. But it was very, very different. I had a lot of scenes on my own where I had to speak to physical air because they weren’t in the scene.”   

_{Photographer: Tom J. Johnson}

For Allan, the film echoes many of the trials and tribulations that we face as a society. People perceive action-adventure films as mere entertainment but they’re not, she says.

“What’s interesting about these films is that they remind you that the more a species progresses, the more dangerous it becomes. You see this world at the start of the film and it’s lush, it’s green and it’s so much healthier than it is with us people rolling in. I think naturally everyone’s got to be on the ape side because the world looks so much better with them in charge. However, you get a glimpse into the fact that the minute a species has enough intelligence, knowledge of its history and the potential of what that can lead to, it can very much lead to the same mistakes being repeated.”  

_{Photographer: Tom J. Johnson}

To further her emphasis on evolution, Allan is very adamant that our reality is linked to our growth. “I read something, and I never finished this book, but it’s called Sapiens. And it’s literally about the progression of humans. It said that we developed too quickly. And that’s probably a large reason as to why we are erratic. I feel like the apes in the film [are] symbolic of the issues that we have within. There’s this constant feeling of having to choose sides and realising that there just isn’t a clear right or wrong. It’s dependant on the individuals,” she explains further.  

How do we find empathy for humanity within that context? “It does provide the audience with such a conflict because there isn’t an easy, straightforward answer to that,” Allan ponders. “You know, because with the apes you have varied intentions. And like I say, there’s the danger of curiosity and the danger of the increase in intelligence and consciousness. But then, that’s why I feel very lucky to play Nova because she is the looking glass for the humans, which is going to be all of the audience. So I am their insight. I’m there. I’m their eyes.” 

_{Photographer: Tom J. Johnson}

In a society that’s constructed on destruction and polarity, Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes will be shifting perspectives: “I think that allows for a kind of conflict within the audience. Who are you backing? And I think that will shift throughout the film. It’s not straightforward or clear who’s in the right or who’s in the wrong. Everyone wants their people to survive and to thrive. And I think that there’s empathy that you can have for both the apes and the humans.” 

On a roll, she continues. “Even in the ape world, you’ve got apes that are cruel and power-hungry. Then there are the ones who embody love and are family-orientated, nurturing and respectful of culture. And then you get the human perspective, which is initially viewing them as just one thing. Vice-versa with the apes and the humans as well. And I think it’s an interesting reminder of segregation and also reflective of historical moments.” 

_{Photographer: Tom J. Johnson}

And just to knock it out of the park, Allan adds in a manner that is reflective of both her awareness and her stance. “There’s a stupidity to our intelligence I’d say as a theme.” Repeating patterns of violence on a global scale and generally never quite learning from our own mistakes is why a film like Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes is not only timely but necessary, she continues.

“Humanity as a whole is just really rubbish. Have you seen how horrible people are out there? Pure evil. It makes you question how we’ve reached this point. Because we’ve always been like this. There are some beautiful moments where you see people gather together for one cause and it does give you faith. But when you see the other end of the spectrum, it does make you just detest it.”  

_{Photographer: Tom J. Johnson}

It is difficult in times of destruction to find positivity, but that is when we need to fight for beauty and positivity, a time to move from individuality to collective wellness, a time to reimagine what it means to be human, Allan concludes.

“To be human is to look beyond everything that you’ve known or been told. And to be intelligent. People can be so close-minded. Just let the consideration for things run through your brain cells and process it. Unfortunately, some people have so much of a block that they can’t do that. But that’s what I would love to see. And I think that’s where humanity is.” 

by Adina Ilie

Photographer: Tom J. Johnson

Stylist: Lyla Cheng

Makeup Francesca Brazzo

Hair: Patrick Wilson using KERASTASE

Photography assistant: Gil Warner

Styling assistants: Marilena Angelides and Amelia Connolly

Talent: Freya Allan

_{Look 1: Top FENDI, Earrings MOSCHINO, Trousers, shoes LOUIS VUITTON}

_{Look 2: Top TOVE, Skirt 16ARLINGTON, Shoes GIVENCHY}

_{Look 3: All clothing and accessories PHILOSOPHY DI LORENZO SERAFINI}

_{Look 4: Jeans MOSCHINO, Waistcoat TOD’S, Heels FENDI}

_{Look 5: Top MARK FAST, Shorts FERRAGAMO}

_{Look 6: Coat MCM}

The post Freya Allan speaks to Glass on shifting perspectives first appeared on The Glass Magazine.