Jess Khan-Lee chatted about her “Mission: Impossible — Final Reckoning” journey, and working with Tom Cruise.
Academy Award winner Christopher McQuarrie directed the action film from a script that he co-wrote with Erik Jendresen. Tom Cruise is back as Ethan Hunt in this final installment of the franchise.
How was your experience in the movie “Mission: Impossible — Final Reckoning”?
One of the most defining moments of my life, and one I wasn’t ever expecting, though I dreamed of it. That set was pushing the boundaries of filmmaking and doing things that have never been done before.
On top of that, you have an ensemble cast who are all outstanding actors, and a crew and director that are the best in the business.
Words fail to describe what it was like to be there. Pure madness and inspiration.
What did you like most about your character (the marine sergeant)?
That she was in scenes with Tom Cruise! But other than that, I think it’s easy to overlook her at first glance, because she’s small in stature, especially in comparison to those around her.
She is full of conviction, and has a strong moral compass and sense of duty. And it’s such a great moment when you get to see that.
What was it like working with Tom Cruise and the team?
Tom is one of the most enjoyable actors to watch on screen, so I was thrilled to play opposite him. His range and versatility in his body of work is unmatched.
He is so generous, as a scene partner and with his knowledge. He’s also the hardest working actor I’ve ever come across, and yet he makes time for everyone.
The rest of the cast are immensely talented and accomplished, so I couldn’t help but learn a lot just being on set with them.
Then, there’s our director, McQ, and the brilliant crew. McQ loves film, actors, and the story, and because of that brings a wonderful energy and atmosphere to the set.
It was a privilege to be directed by him. There was a real sense of camaraderie and respect on the set.
What did this film teach you about yourself?
That I can hold my own, and that I belong in this industry. Artists are plagued with self doubt, so it felt great to realize that I am capable of this job that I love so much.
What do your plans for the future include?
I have a series coming out later this year on Amazon Prime and a video game. From there I just want to continue to make films, TV series, and dance. I’d love to go back to the theater as well.
What motivates you each day as an actress?
There was a time when I decided to leave the industry for a while. I wanted life experience. I’d been working professionally since I was a teen, and training since I could walk.
I needed to leave and explore different avenues in order to bring something more to my art. But during that time away, I felt I was missing a part of myself. It became very clear that this was the only career path for me.
So the motivation comes from never wanting to lose myself again.
How does it feel to be a part of the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
This is a big question. I have a love and hate relationship with it, as I think many do. There’s a lot to unpack.
Streaming has put television in the spotlight, and the sheer amount of content means more work for those in the industry, and nearly unlimited viewing choices. However, I think we sacrifice that special element pre-streaming when we were fully immersed in a show or a film.
You couldn’t pause a TV show, so you were invested in that moment. I prefer going to the cinema because there are no distractions, no other screens. I’m transported into that story and that world for that time. It’s the magical factor.
Technology and social media – I’m going to lump these two together to brevity. It’s incredible how it allows us to connect with people across the world with such ease.
The access we have to information and to each other is a powerful thing. The opportunities it can provide can be very important to people.
It can be used for enormous good, but also has it’s pitfalls. I think social media in particular is one I feel very conflicted about, because I think for all the superficial connection it allows us, we are losing genuine, deeper human connection.
What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question)
If I can go to sleep at the end of the day feeling proud of myself – for my creative work, or being a good friend or family member, accomplishing a goal, or for some element of personal growth – I think that’s success.
If we’re just talking career, then ‘success’ becomes something quite elusive, because the moment I think I have it, there will be something else on the horizon that I’ll be aiming for.
To learn more about actress Jess Khan-Lee, follow her on Instagram.
Read More: “Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning” review.
