Acclaimed singer, actress, and producer Josie Ho chatted about her latest endeavors, and the digital age.
How did it feel to be an honoree at last year’s Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF)?
I was overwhelmed by emotions and joy. I’m still pinching myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. I am grateful that my work is being acknowledged by others, the worldwide audience and critics. It is a big encouragement to drive me forward to making more films in the future with my husband Conroy Chan.
People like to say that getting this type of honor means they are in the age of retirement, but I hope that doesn’t refer to me… Haha. No plans to slow down anytime soon!
How do you determine which projects you work on (acting/directing/producing)?
For acting, I like playing characters who are flawed, like someone who doesn’t learn from her mistakes, who is kinda bad, maybe a little crazy, certainly not perfect, definitely self-repressing and always on edge making trouble.
For producing, I of course need to have an overview of the entire script, along with clear insight from the director, understanding of the budget and all of those kind of elements.
I really want to fancy myself as Quentin Tarantino who once said something along the lines of, “I am making my movies for me, my direction, my idea, everybody else is invited.” That is what I aspire to be.
Do you have a favorite film genre to direct/produce? If so, does that differ from your favorite film genre to act in?
No, it’s not about the genre for me. It is about the theme, the story, how it’s going to be presented, as well as how to best reveal the ridiculousness of humanity.
How does it feel to be an artist in the digital age? (now with technology and social media and streaming being so prevalent)
In the past… or as I like to say, the good ol’ days… it was easier to keep private without taking drastic measures, or it to put it simply, just not being as hard to maintain one’s privacy. But in this current digital age, you basically have to put your personal business out there with the pressure to be genuine without reservation.
Have there been any moments in your career that helped define you?
It was when I started up my film company 852 Films with my husband and producing our film “Dream Home” in 2008. As Chinese proverb says, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” And the first step is always memorable.
In these 12 years, we produced more than 10 feature films. From our early days to even now, we insist on making something new and creative with fun. That’s our motto!
What do your plans for the future include?
I am going to release my new song very soon and in the second half of this year I will try something very challenging… like a kind of stand-up comedy which I have never done before.
What does the word success mean to you?
Success is ever defined as the accomplishment of a goal. And my goal is being creative, bold, to try new angles within the old paths, and always tell yourself to be different by evolving and reinventing yourself whenever possible. Those traits I feel gives you your best shot at leading to success.
What would you like to say to your fans about the world premiere of your Japan-set horror film ONPAKU?
It is the psychological suspenseful horror film, so take a deep breath, sit back and enjoy it.
To learn more about singer, actress, and producer Josie Ho, follow her on Instagram.
