Photography : Oscar Chik
Stylist : Adrin Yeung
Hair : Ben Lee
Make Up : Zing @ Zing Makeup
Interview: Ines Shubshizky
Josie Ho is currently starring in ‘Finding Bliss: Fire and Ice’, which she also co-produced. The documentary follows the travel with her band from Hong Kong to Iceland to discover the secrets of bliss in one of the happiest places on earth. It is part of the official selection at the 24th annual Udine Far East Film Festival.
What has been your favorite role to play so far?
My favorite female role must be myself in my life, it’s been quite a ride. My favorite film role is in the film Naked Ambition 1. I play a happy masseuse who looks at life in the most positive way. Sometimes I think the same too – to look life in a very playful and naive way.
What does family mean to you?
Collective survival and toughness throughout everything life throws at you.
What is something you wish you had known 20 years ago?
Hindsight is beautiful, and I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learnt in every moment.
What do you love most about Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is an extremely safe city, and the people have true decency. Everyone is polite and easy to get along with, which makes for a very peaceful life.
What makes someone a good friend?
I value good humor and honesty above all else.
Do you follow (fashion) trends?
Yes, I love to see the new colors and cuts that come out each season. The new shapes, textures and outlooks of the collections are so inspiring.
Are you an emotional person?
I am… but I play it down in order to get on with life and live in the moment.
Do you feel like being loud and ‘different’ has been more of a blessing or a curse?
I am naturally shy, so I see being loud and being bold as a blessing – I’m always been trying to find my own kind and nurture my inner strength.
Has there been any specific life event / period that you dreaded at the time, and that you’re grateful for now?
Yes, as an actor there are times when you receive criticism over roles – in my early career, I was fired from a job and shelved by my management, which was really tough. This was a time of intense dread but looking back I’m grateful for it as it drove me to work harder and forge my own path.
What was the best thing that has happened to you this week?
The best thing that had happened to me this week was that spring has arrived and the sun is shining.
What triggers nostalgia?
I think I’m live in constant nostalgia. it makes me happy and can be extremely clarifying to reflect on the past.
What do we all need to rebel against (if anything)?
We need to rebel against the culture of bullying – I am proud to be very good at breaking loose from negative energy.
What classifies good humor?
Being able to make fun of your own experiences with self-awareness.
How do you deal with insecurities?
I freak out and I sleep it out.
What traits in other people do you admire?
I’m obsessed with magic and am in constant awe of the skills of magicians – their precision and their air of mystery.
Is there a divine power that guides us?
I think so…
What do you find cool about yourself?
I have the power to forget sadness.
What do you find cool about America?
That America accepts many ways of life.