Getting Into Character With Worth the Wait's Ali Fumiko Whitney
This summer, actor and producer Ali Fumiko Whitney stars as Riley in a fully-stacked ensemble cast that includes Lana Condor, in the Tubi rom-com, Worth the Wait, a film that delivers all the genre classics, and then some, with its powerful and relatable story lines. We first fell in love with Ali last summer in Netflix's equally sweet, Find Me Falling, where she delivers a sturdy performance opposite one Harry Connick Jr. So we sat down to get the rising star's take on romantic comedies, talked to her about why it felt refreshing to be part of a story that celebrates AAPI creatives, learned how she related to Riley the most, sought out the star products in her supersized skincare routine, and more.
What excited you about this project? When I first read the script, I loved that this was a story involving all Asian and Asian-American characters as the leads within the story lines. As a half-Japanese actress, I'm always looking for projects that amplify the AAPI community. I love that this film doesn't use tropes or stereotypes, but rather, follows the lives of a bunch of human beings who happen to be Asian. So often, and in romantic comedies particularly, we do not see Asian or Asian-American talent as leading love interests. It was refreshing to be part of a story that celebrates AAPI creatives. I love that the younger generation will get to see a film where people who look like them get to be the main characters.
How did you feel about working in an ensemble cast? Working in an ensemble cast is both an exciting and funny experience. I loved the days when we all came together and filmed the larger group scenes where all of our story lines collide. It was also an interesting experience to have been a part of a film where you're not necessarily working with your co-stars at all throughout filming. I was really fortunate to have Ricky He and Sung Kang as my counterparts in this film! We had a blast shooting, and we bonded quickly since all of our scenes were together. Given the nature of the separate story lines in Worth The Wait, our producers, Rachel Tan and Dan Mark, did a wonderful job of organizing cast bonding moments outside of shooting. We spent a lot of time as a cast hanging out when we weren’t filming, and I think it helped us to not feel isolated. We only filmed together for one or two days. I truly had the best time as a part of this film, and I credit it to the wonderful cast and creative team!
What makes Worth the Wait a perfect summer rom-com? It has something for everyone. It is a multigenerational film that touches upon a lot of topics that are relatable. The film tugs at people’s heart strings in an unexpected way. I've had so many people tell me they didn't expect to cry so much while watching it, and I think that's beautiful. Our film deals with love in a jovial way while also dealing with love through grief and loss. I think the perfect rom-com has to have relatable and likeable characters along with story lines that are compelling. Worth The Wait has all of it. You will laugh, and you will probably shed a few tears.
Which of the characters' plot lines can you personally relate to, including your character Riley's? I related to Riley’s character the most when I first read the script, however, after watching the film, I found myself relating to Nathan and Teresa’s story. The idea of, how does love persevere after such severe loss?, is a topic that I think so many people can relate to. Their story really touched me and inspired me; I think it can be so easy to shut down while dealing with grief. They show how love can help heal you, when you allow yourself to be vulnerable and lean on one another for support.
What do you think are the most important human moments in their stories? Some of the most important human moments in Riley’s story come from her vulnerability. When she opens up to her Uncle about her feelings and fears, we see them grow together and bond in a way they weren’t able to before. I think this is similar to Nathan and Teresa’s story. We watch them struggle together throughout the whole film until finally they are able to open up and come together and deal with their grief as a couple, instead of doing it silently, and alone.
How did you interpret Riley's relationship with Blake, upon taking on your role? I love Riley and Blake’s relationship. There is something so fun and simple about young love. I interpreted their relationship as being the comedic relief in our film. Their duo is silly but also very much serious about being in love with one another. The film deals with some heavier topics and even though our characters also deal with grief, they do so in a lighthearted way.
Is there a takeaway in Riley and Blake's story? My hope is that everyone takes away something different based upon how the film affects them. One takeaway that I have, is that vulnerability can be a superpower and lead to connection with others. Never be afraid to open up.
makeup | soo park
