Gemma Chan Discusses Indie Film 'Josephine' and Anna May Wong Biopic with Jon M. Chu
In the latest edition of CULTURED magazine's 'Cult of Personality,' actress Gemma Chan sat down with director Jon M. Chu, recognized for his work on 'Crazy Rich Asians,' to talk about her new independent film 'Josephine' and future endeavors. Chan, who gained prominence with 'Crazy Rich Asians' in 2018, has starred in Marvel's 'Eternals' and Hayao Miyazaki's 'The Boy and the Heron.' 'Josephine,' directed by Beth de Araújo, tells the story of parents trying to support their daughter after she witnesses a violent act. Premiering at Sundance in January 2026, it won the Audience Award and Grand Jury Prize and will be released on November 20. Chan noted that funding was secured just three days into filming. She highlighted her need for dance training for her role and commended co-star Channing Tatum's openness. Chan also expressed her respect for Chu's directing approach, which contrasts with previous 'creative genius' environments. Additionally, she revealed her desire to portray the late Anna May Wong in a biopic being crafted with playwright David Henry Hwang. Reflecting on her early career, she mentioned her first acting gig in a Bing commercial that financed her drama school tuition.
Key facts
- Gemma Chan and Jon M. Chu reunited for an interview in CULTURED magazine's 'Cult of Personality' issue.
- Chan's latest film 'Josephine' is directed by Beth de Araújo and co-stars Channing Tatum.
- 'Josephine' won the Audience Award and Grand Jury Prize at Sundance in January 2026.
- The film is scheduled for release on November 20.
- Full financing for 'Josephine' only came in three days into the shoot.
- Chan trained in dance for her role as a dancer in 'Josephine'.
- Chan is developing a biopic about Anna May Wong with playwright David Henry Hwang.
- Chan's first acting job was a commercial for Bing, which paid for drama school.
Entities
Artists
- Gemma Chan
- Jon M. Chu
- Channing Tatum
- Beth de Araújo
- Anna May Wong
- David Henry Hwang
Institutions
- CULTURED magazine
- Marvel
- Studio Ghibli
- Sundance