KELSEY CHOW INTERVIEW CRASH 65

By Crash redaction

KELSEY CHOW GLOWS WITH ALL THE STRENGTH AND NOBILITY OF HER CHEROKEE HERITAGE. AT 22, SHE HAS ALREADY SHOWN AN ENDLESS DETERMINATION AND FIERY WILL. APPEARING IN “THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN” LAST YEAR, WE WILL SOON SEE HER IN THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE SAGA. WE MET WITH HER IN BEVERLY HILLS WHERE SHE REPRESENTED THE FENDI FALL-WINTER 2013-2014 COLLECTION.

How did you get your start in film?

 My love for acting, which developed while performing in dance productions such as “Giselle” and “The Nutcracker”, became even more apparent when I began doing school and community plays when I was 11 years old. At 13, I started a recurring role as Gigi Silveri on “One Tree Hill” for three seasons, and the next year, I began Disney’s “Pair of Kings” as Mikayla Makoola for three seasons. Even with a busy television schedule, I was very fortunate to work on several films during that time, “The Amazing Spiderman”,“ The Wine of Summer”, and “Run”.

 How did your parents react when you told them you wanted to become an actress?

 My parents were actually very supportive and encouraging. They are very honest with me and they believed in me then and now.

 You started playing when you were a teenager, how was it like to combine with both drama and studies?

 I have always enjoyed my education. Seriously! I looked forward to every school year, so I have always believed I could have both. It was tough as times, but I enjoyed the challenge, and the stimulation and confidence building of one area enhanced the other.

 How was it like to become famous so young?

 I would hardly say I’m famous. Of course, it is nice to receive recognition for your work, but it is the fans who make it all possible. Without them, these opportunities would not be available. I enjoy meeting them and hearing from them.

 You were chosen to play in “The Amazing Spider-Man”, how is it like to work with director Marc Webb?

 I auditioned for this part during my finals at Columbia University. My mom was on the phone, playing Peter Parker! It was a delightful experience, and I was lucky that Disney allowed me time to do it. Marc Webb is amazing to work with, and knows exactly what he wants from the most important roles to the smallest ones. I learned a lot in that short time.

 How did you like to work with both actors Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone?

 Unfortunately, I did not get to work with Emma Stone as she was not in these particular scenes. I have a lot of respect for her and her work. It’s not always easy to make people laugh, but she does it effortlessly. I consider myself a very lucky girl to have worked with Andrew Garfield the entire time, however brief! He is very kind and funny, a giving actor with an incredible work ethic.

 Do you like fantasy movies? Why did you decide to play in the movie?

 I really enjoy fantasy movies. I believe they allow us to experience the impossible, and give us hope and escape when we need it.

 What do you think of super-heroes?

 I think we have real super heroes walking amongst us, people whose accomplishments and good deeds positively affect our lives and make our world a better place. These type of movies are merely exaggerated, fantastical versions of our desire to make a difference.

 Any director you would like to work with in the future?

 Oh, there are quite a few. I recently saw the film “In America” by Jim Sheridan. It’s a beautiful film. I would love to work with him.

 What are your favourite movies? Name them and why?

 This is always a difficult question. So many to choose from! One of my favorites is “La vita è bella”. It’s an incredibly empowering, uplifting film. Everyone must see it!

 Do you like fashion? Who are your favourite designers? What do you like specifically in this Fendi story?

 I love fashion, every ensemble tells a story, not unlike acting. Fashion affects how we feel, how we present ourselves, and allows us to feel like whomever we want to be, even superheroes! Each designer tells his own story, and so like films, it’s difficult to choose! It was an honor (and a surreal experience — I’m still pinching myself!) to meet Silvia Fendi and Karl Lagerfeld in Paris.

 Do you live in Los Angeles? How would you describe your lifestyle?

 I have lived in Los Angeles for the past four years. During that time, I have returned to NYC to attend university, and I have traveled quite a bit these past few years. My lifestyle varies according to my location. I work hard and I enjoy the cultural offerings in these wonderful cities I am fortunate to visit and in which I live. I spend time with my friends and family, and get in a bit of adventure when I can!

 What kind of music do you prefer?

Music is integral to my life, and I am always open to new bands, new genres, new artists, and songs. I am a fan of music festivals, just attended Glastonbury in the UK for the first time this year!

 Where did you spend your holidays?

 I spent the holidays in NYC working on my degree at Columbia, and traveling to London and the countryside, Paris, Washington, DC to see the Rolling Stones with my family, and my hometown in South Carolina. Perhaps this year, I will spend New Year’s in Malaysia!