10 Things about Josie Ho
You’re originally from Hong Kong. When did you decide that you would embark on a career as an actress and how did you initially get your start?
Yes, I was born in Hong Kong, educated both here in Hong Kong and in Canada. I was born to chase my dream, which was being a singer. I originally wanted to be known as a skillful singer, but I ended up getting hired more for acting. I’m still singing in local Asia, in a band called “Josie and The Uni Boys” and we have been together for 11 years!
Which actors’ body of work impressed you and has made a positive impact on your career?
I really adore Tilda Swinton, Chris Waltz, Kate Winslet, Jodie Foster, Julianne Moore, Rebel Wilson and Meryl Streep. I guess I’m like a sponge. When I was young, I was always grounded at home. All I was allowed to do was rent videos and watch them over and over again. I think when people are really into their craft, they’ll naturally shine from within. I’ve always been curious at how performers can do that. I love how Julianne Moore, Tilda Swinton and Meryl Streep can shape-shift into different characters. The transformations in their careers really inspire me, especially when I’m stuck in my own career. They are my “Goddesses” and “Icons” for studying how dynamic an actor can be.
You have several projects that you’re working on. Let’s first talk about the film “Edge of The World”, where you star alongside Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Dominic Monaghan. How were you first introduced to the film and what was it about the script that made you excited to jump onboard?
My agent brought me this story “Edge of the World” which was so epic, very touching, and is about a bridge to two worlds during the 1820’s. At first, the film was called “Rajah” as its original title. It’s a story about this English adventurer who accidentally fell in love with Sarawak, Malaysia. Later, this man becomes the King and the story spins around to a become a controversial one. It grew into “Civilization,” “Justice,” and “Lies.” I was fortunate to be in part of this film. I really remember the first day of the shoot. I met Johnathan Rhys Meyers, the director and the rest of the cast at 5:30am in the Sarawak forest. Trust me, it was exciting!!!
What can you tell us about your character and role in “Edge of The World” and how it relates to the rest of the cast?
My character is the leader of a bunch of warriors from Singapore who I bring to help Johnathan Rhys Meyers and Dominic Monaghan’s characters. My character is actually a past love interest to Jonathan’s role. This unconditional support I bring to them serves as the “Justice” in the film as well. The actions my character takes really moved me because in today’s world, we have deals, trade, contracts. Nothing much is really unconditional anymore. Hopefully it comes back to us soon!
You’re also a producer for the film. How much do you enjoy wearing multiple hats, both in front and behind the camera?
Yes, my husband and I have a company called 852 Films Ltd. Our whole team produces some of these interesting films together. I always prefer to stay back as an actress, but sometimes producing film projects is healthy for our team to learn from others. Therefore, as difficult as it is, we deal with things.
Having your own film company comes with excitement and lots of responsibilities. What advice would you give to others in the entertainment industry who are looking to build on the production side like yourself?
Yes, having a production company like my mosquito size 852 Films Ltd allows us to meet with many producers and directors or investors. At least we know what this business is like. But, so far, our company has worked with our overseas partners. However, my advice for other investors is, don’t ever believe in just words — believe in the contract – people don’t always say what they mean. Their rosy treatment could end up being utter BS. It just depends. Don’t be afraid of these “snakes.” Be brave to attack immediately if you find yourself being “bullied” into something.
In addition to acting and producing, you mentioned that you’re also part of a successful band and you’ve been named the “Queen of Hong Kong’s indie rock/metal scene.” How did you get started in music and what upcoming plans do you have coming out from Josie & The Uni Boys?
I was singing Karaoke when my family first bought that original double-decker cassette machine about the size of an old dehumidifier. Then, Music Minus One from different record companies were sold at record shops on Cassette tape with famous songs on them. This machine was small, but had the whole sound system of a mini Busking machine attached with a few microphones. I was addicted to it. I practiced every day at home from other pop songs. When I was 18 years old, I was discovered by a record company after one performance on TV for the Macau Beauty Pageant as entertainment for the guests. I was the newbie, if you will. From then on, I signed my contract with the record company when I was 19 with my family’s supervision. It was a historical moment for me and my whole family. It was a strange experience for my family because I’m the youngest member who found myself a job out of my hometown, Hong Kong. My band Josie and The Uni Boys was formed after I returned to Hong Kong, when I got fired by a record company. We are together because my drummer Kevin encouraged me to form a band with the best musicians that he could find for me. So, I’m not really the queen. It has more to do with my whole band’s talent and the way they challenge me; as well as my vocal teacher who gave me a very good musical upbringing. Our band has working on two EPs for two different territories singing in English and other languages. We might also transform our own Hard Rock version to something even harder as there is also a project about us exploring another genre of music. We’ve tried out the experimental play by touring in a couple of cities with it. We love to participate in different media. And, we love to do these kind of things that bring inspiration to us. Lastly, we are hoping for a concert when things cool down.
Fashion is pervasive in Hong Kong. Which designers and styles appeal most to your personality?
Thank you for asking. I love YSL, Celine, Gucci and also vintage clothing. I saved all the 90’s fashion in my wardrobe as well. There were Hussian Chaylayan, Veronique Leroy, Martin Sitbon, Y project. The Hong Kong fashion industry is not stopping as we have shops like DMop, HER, Juice, plus all kinds of very special indie boutiques. I dress my vibe or whatever my mood is on a given day. Or if for a holiday, then I think I typically try to sort out my wardrobe by putting on something that is very mix and matching. But at work, I’m always wearing a leather jacket by Zadig and Voltaire, lose track pants and sneakers.
If you weren’t working as an actress, producer or musician, what other career would you consider for yourself?
Ummm….if I wasn’t able to do my favorite jobs, I would be in film school learning everything. Maybe I would become a D.P. or lighting girl. I was accepted to go to FIDM for the course “space design/interior design/shop display” after high school, but since I was discovered for singing, of course I jumped into that!
Thank you for taking the time to chat with us. What other projects would you like to promote?
Please be on the lookout for other movies I have coming out. Thank you for reading my interview. I appreciate you sharing your time with me.
“Habit” is releasing in select theaters, on digital and on demand August 20. Following that date, the film will release on DVD and Blu-ray August 24.
Red Band Trailer – https://youtu.be/GxlK9VMC4u8
Instagram: @Josie_Ho_Chiu
Photos: Oscar Chik