We can’t wait for you to read this amazing interview with Ryan Ali. Check it out below.
Hi, Ryan! Thank you for granting the interview. We’re excited to speak with you. You recently penned a piece about growing up Syrian and not seeing diversity on screen. Tell us how important representation is.
Thank you for having me. I think representation is invaluable. There is such diversity in the world we live in today, and to not show that in our content and media is to be insincere. I think everyone deserves to find someone with a story that they can relate to or a story they can learn from. I think it’s also very important for kids to look at the movies and shows that are such a big part of their lives, and realize that they can dream big, they can be superheroes, they can be CEOs, teachers, engineers, and that what makes them diverse won’t stop them from accomplishing that.
You’re appearing in a movie with Salma Hayek and Alexander Skarsgard. You’re not playing a stereotypical character. You’re playing a math and physics genius of Middle Eastern descent. Tell us about your role and character? Does he have a backstory?
My character’s name is Elias, he’s a quantitative analyst that works for Eva Torres (Salma Hayek), and is a colleague of Anton Zaleski (Alexander Skarsgard). He is wholly dedicated to researching and developing a technology called microwave towers and is trying to push the team in that direction, which Anton disagrees with. And he happens to be Middle Eastern. Going back to the topic of diversity, it’s what initially attracted me to the role and the script. Middle Eastern people are not one thing. They have different stories, different backgrounds, different passions and interests, and I feel very privileged to be able to bring that character to the screen.
What inspired you to become an actor?
It started with the Harry Potter movies. I was a big reader as a kid and I had read the book and was a little envious of Daniel Radcliffe getting to play Harry. And so I started looking at what the process of casting was and who the people that were involved in the film were, and I fell in love with the magic of filmmaking.
What do you hope to accomplish in your career?
I hope to have a very successful acting career, but also be a leader and a voice for change, and help inspire the younger generations to follow their dreams, to speak up and help leave this world a better place.
What would you say to others trying to follow their dreams?
Go for it. No dream is too big. That no one’s done it before should be further motivation to do it yourself.
What was your favorite movie?
I always forget all the movies I’ve ever watched when I’m asked this question. Harry Potter has a very dear place in my heart because it’s what’s sparked my passion for acting, and as a kid growing I was very influenced by the values of friendship, integrity, courage and everything else that was taught to my generation by J.K. Rowling. I’m also a Gryffindor as confirmed by Pottermore!
Who are some of your favorite influencers?
Salma Hayek has always been very vocal about the obstacles she’s faced in her career, and that inspired my 12-year-old self to follow my dreams. My favorite influencers tend to be people that speak out and spark change and inspiration through love and positivity such as Ellen DeGeneres, Gus Kenworthy, Shonda Rhimes and many many more.
What has been your favorite experience in appearing in a feature-length film?
Getting to work with such brilliant, talented and experienced people that are so generous with sharing their knowledge and passion with someone that’s newer to the industry such as me. And also, my friends’ reactions to seeing me on the big screen and on the red carpet, and how proud they were of me. I have the most supportive and loving family members and friends and I am truly grateful for that.
When looking back on the movie, what resonated with you the most and why?
Not letting your life slip by right in front of you while seeking material things. When I first moved back to Canada, I studied civil engineering for two years and the only reason I was doing it was because I thought that’s what people do after high school; choose a program and find a job. But over the course of the program, I realized that people have different paths and they should follow their instincts and pursue their passions and see where that leads them. So I did.
In your opinion, how could this movie make an impact on the world?
I’m very curious to see people’s reactions. So far, its lessons and metaphors, which Kim Nguyen so brilliantly implemented in this film, really resonated with the people that have seen it. They’ve all gotten something different from it. Something else that really stands out is the diversity that you see on screen. I hope that inspires filmmakers all around the world to include that in the stories they tell.
If you had to do it all over again, would you still choose acting as your career? Would you do anything differently?
I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m a firm believer that it’s about the journey and not only the destination. I am here today because of everything that I’ve been through, ups and downs. And I would definitely choose acting every time. There’s nothing else that gives me as much joy and fulfills my hunger to learn about the different stories and perspectives in this world.
Do you have anything else you would like to share about your career?
I’m very excited about the direction that my career is going in. I’m hoping my visibility inspires the younger generations. I’m hoping my involvement in the creation of content moving forward brings new storylines to the screen. I think I have a unique privilege having grown up in two completely different parts of this world – Syria and Canada – and with such a diverse background and upbringing, I have a unique perspective that gives me the responsibility to shine a spotlight on these unheard voices. There’s a lot happening so make sure you follow my journey on the different social media platforms @ryanali23!
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