Chutimon (Aokbab) Chuengcharoensukying is the first Thai actress to receive the esteemed International Rising Star Asia award at the 16th New York Asian Film Festival for her character Lynn from Bad Genius (2017). For the cover of VOGUE Hong Kong’s May 2020 issue, fashion photographer Tada Varich partnered with stylist Sanshai to showcase a refreshing side of Chutimon, who wore a series of looks, including pieces from Chanel’s SS20 collection.
On the day of the photoshoot, coinciding with Bangkok’s hottest day, Chutimon emerges fresh out of hair and makeup into the 70s-era studio. “If I could, I’d love to be a race car driver!” she jokes.
Did the success of Bad Genius open any doors for you?
Well, of course! I’ve been a model since 2014, and Bad Genius was my cinematic debut. My role as a confident young woman in the film launched me into the international film industry.
Sweater, Jacket, Coco Crush necklace in yellow gold and earrings in white gold, yellow gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Left hand: Coco Crush bracelet in white gold and diamonds, bracelet in yellow gold, Coco Crush ring in beige gold, ring in white gold and diamonds, ring in beige gold and diamonds and ring in yellow gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Right hand: Coco Crush ring in white gold and diamonds, ring in white gold, all Chanel.
You were also in Happy Old Year, which won the Grand Prix award at the Osaka Asian Film Festival. Was there a memorable moment during filming?
I loved every scene in this movie, but I clearly remember crying every day after shooting. Perhaps it was because the film had such a realistic reflection of society that I couldn’t help but be emotionally affected by it. There was definitely a very different atmosphere on set compared to Bad Genius.
Dress, belt as choker, and Coco Crush earrings in white gold, yellow gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Left hand: Coco Crush ring in beige gold, ring in white gold and diamonds, ring in beige gold and diamonds and ring in yellow gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Right hand: Coco Crush bracelet in white gold and diamonds, bracelet in yellow gold, ring in yellow gold and ring in beige gold, all Chanel.
Having started as a model who is becoming more involved in the film industry, was there anyone who you saw as a mentor?
I look up to everyone I work with, including my colleagues, producers, and especially my fans, as I learned a lot from them. My experiences have helped me improve and gain confidence as an actress–I’m fortunate to have friends from many different backgrounds.
Do you see any differences between modelling and acting?
They are entirely different! As a model, I can showcase different personalities through my clothes and style. With acting, I have to embody different characters, which requires me to use various acting techniques I’ve learned along the way.
Top and pants, all Gucci. Coco Crush necklace in yellow gold and earrings in white gold, yellow gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Left hand: Coco Crush ring in yellow gold, Chanel. Right hand: Coco Crush ring in yellow gold, ring in white gold and ring in white gold and diamonds, all Chanel.
You also acted in a film by Wong Kar-wai — what were your impressions of him before you met? What do you look forward to in this project?
I was once interviewed by a British magazine, which asked which director I wanted to work with the most. My answer at the time was Wong Kar-wai —I’ve paid close attention to his works and awards these past few years, and to have the opportunity to work with him is a dream come true. This is also my first romance film, and I look forward to seeing how fans react; it’ll probably surprise them!
Dress, Max Mara.Heels, Chanel. Coco Crush necklace in yellow gold and earrings in white gold, yellow gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Left hand: Coco Crush bracelet in yellow gold, bracelet in white gold and diamonds, Coco Crush ring in yellow gold, ring in white gold and diamonds, ring in beige gold and diamonds, ring in yellow gold and diamonds and ring in white gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Right hand: Coco Crush ring in beige gold, ring in yellow gold and ring in white gold, all Chanel.
Thai films and fashion has been gaining more international attention. What is it like working in Thailand’s creative industries?
Thailand has a diverse culture with an emerging creative sector. Everyone brings new ideas to the table, which companies and brands support. I think we will see a flourishing creative cluster in the near future, especially with all the possibilities and attention that social media can bring.
Cardigans and skirt, all Miu Miu. Coco Crush necklace in yellow gold, Chanel. Left hand: Coco Crush bracelet in yellow gold, bracelet in white gold and diamonds, Coco Crush ring in white gold and diamonds, ring in beige gold and diamonds, ring in yellow gold and diamonds, all Chanel. Right hand: Coco Crush ring in beige gold, ring in yellow gold and ring in white gold, all Chanel.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I aim to become a globally acclaimed actress and work in a Hollywood film. I also hope to be a source of inspiration for those who want to follow their dreams. If I can do it, so can you.
Do you have a motto that helps you overcome the challenges you face?
“Have courage and be kind.” It’s a short but powerful phrase. We need to have more empathy, especially in such a difficult time when people are becoming increasingly stressed.
What is your style like when you’re not working?
I tend to reach for a simple T-shirt with jeans or a skirt in my off-time. Sometimes, I also enjoy wearing vintage-style dresses paired with my favourite trainers. My go-to makeup style is quite minimal as well: some sunscreen or moisturiser–no foundation–and a red lip. I always carry red lipstick with me.
What have been your top three favourite movies to watch during lockdown?
I like Love Rosie. I first watched it when I was nineteen, and I’ve re-watched it multiple times since then. I enjoyed how the director presented Rosie and Alex’s evolving relationship. My favourite scene was when Rosie exclaimed, “No matter where you are, or what you’re doing, or who you’re with, I will always, honestly, truly, completely love you.”
I also watched Spirit Away–it’s my favourite anime. In fact, I could watch this film all day and never get tired of it! I admire Chihiro’s unwavering spirit, and I love the soundtrack; it’s the first thing I reach for when I feel the need to pull myself together.
Finally, Parasite. I’m sure everyone knows this film, with its success at the Oscars. It had a profound storyline, and the actors’ performances were very skilled. It reminds me of another movie called The Platform, which teaches us that, as human beings, we must be kind and help one another out.
Translated by Mina Chan
Photographer: Tada Varich
Stylist: Jirat Subpisankul
Makeup Artist: Surapre Achirakul
Hair Stylist: Jacklyn JcReef
Cover Wardrobe: CHANEL by Virginie Viard
Videographer: Petlada Khongwichakarn
Photographer Assistants: Spoon Chaisen & Petlada Khongwichakarn
Editor
Vogue Hong Kong
