interview by JANA LETONJA

Actress Brooke Timber is quickly establishing herself as a face to watch in television and film. Currently, she is starring in her debut film performance in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Memory’, which opened in New York and Los Angeles theaters, ahead of its January 5, 2024 release date.

Brooke, you are starring in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Memory’, alongside Jessica Chastain. How would you sum up your experience working on this project?
My experience working on this project was so reviving as an actor. Working alongside some of the most brilliant and talented actors and actresses was inspiring. Being able to build a relationship with Jessica through our characters has taught me a new level of craft and that there are so many building pieces that go into the film. It’s like throwing a rock into the river and the ripple it takes after. For example, every move that Jessica made as Sylvia, rippled onto my character Anna and then Peter Sarsgaard’s character Saul and so on. This is what makes the film so interesting. Different characters take different leads throughout the film, which causes a different outcome every time. I couldn’t be more proud of everyone involved, especially director Michel Franco for making such a beautiful film that I get the privilege to call my first feature. 

The film marked your debut film performance. How does starring in a film differ from the work you’ve done for TV?
I would say the process of filming a movie and TV show are very similar in a sense where a lot can take place in a short amount of time, meaning 1 – 2 hours. But, a TV show has multiple beginnings, middle and ends, allowing new changes to be divided into smaller parts. Overall, filming a movie takes more of you to focus and pay attention to every detail and changes, and filming a TV series you can technically take a break and have a moment to process new information that happens on screen. In film, there is a clear beginning, middle and end.

What did working on ‘Memory’ teach you about acting and yourself as an actress?
Working on ‘Memory’ taught me to allow changes into my life because you never know the outcome until you fully accept it, as well as embracing differences because ultimately differences are what brings us together and makes a community. It also taught me, especially in the realm of acting, that it’s crucial to establish a moment before the camera starts rolling, particularly in certain, focal scenes. When filming a movie, it’s very stop and go, which can be challenging at times because you have to get into the same headspace you were in as your character, so establishing a moment before was very helpful for me in this process.

You started your career in modeling, before venturing into acting. What excited you the most about modeling?
What excited me the most about modeling is the different sense of freedom that I had where I can be just myself, whereas in acting you strip your entire identity to create a new one.

How do you personally feel about fashion?
I love fashion and think it is another innovative and creative way to express yourself. There are no limits, you can do and create anything. Whether that is wearing an outfit that fits your music vibe that day, your mood or how you want to present to others. 

What is your favorite current fashion trend?
My favorite current fashion trend is mixing gold and silver jewelry. I think it’s cool and it’s fun to mix it up sometimes.

How did you develop passion for acting, and how has your transition from modeling to acting been like?
I developed my passion for acting when I was young. I had picked up a script that my mom had gotten randomly and instantly fell in love, head over heels in love. I have always been performative, I love to make people smile and laugh, so when I got my hands on that script, I knew I was never going to let it go. It had felt like a piece of a puzzle, that I had been looking for, finally landed in my hands to complete the puzzle of Brooke. I was simultaneously doing modeling while acting, so it didn’t feel like a big shift for me personally. I really enjoy print and editorial work, but I knew that acting is what I wanted to do and I fully committed to it.

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You’ve worked with many big names in the industry already. Who inspired you the most so far?
Jessica Chastain has inspired me the most. I always looked up to her, even before getting the amazing opportunity to work with her. I had seen her films and she is absolutely phenomenal, over the moon talented. I was so excited when I got the news I would be playing her daughter in ‘Memory’. I couldn’t be happier.

What are some of your favorite hobbies when you are not filming or auditioning?
One of my favorite hobbies is biking. More recently I have been taking my little sister and brother to local parks and renting Citi Bikes to bike around. It’s extremely energizing and fun.

What can you share with us about your exciting upcoming projects and your dreams for the future of your career?
I am looking to film a new project in January, but can’t give out details or a plot just yet. I also hope in the near future I can write, produce and direct my own films. But as of right now, I am enjoying every moment of this journey. 

TEAM CREDITS:
photography ALEJANDRO GOAT 
styling ALENA ALIFIRUK 
hair & makeup MURAT BEKLER