WHO: Kiana Madeira
WHAT: As a sequel to her amazing performance in Netflix Fear Street trilogy, Kiana Madeira is making waves once again with her role in Brother, Clement Virgo adapts David Chariandy’s award-winning novel about two Jamaican-Canadian brothers who grow up in the violent Scarborough district of Toronto in the 90s. The film – explores themes of masculinity, family, and and Black Loyalty – premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival to critical acclaim, including critics applauding Madeira, a Toronto native, for bringing light light for the role of Aisha. It’s considered one of the most powerful movies of the year and certainly a standout moment for the 29-year-old.
Brother It’s a movie everyone should watch because… I really believe there is a character in there for people to relate to and see themselves in. The heart of the story is how music, community and love can heal and that’s universal. We all put our whole hearts and people into this film too, and when projects are a work of love, they often evoke raw emotions in the hearts of the audience and really allow they connect with what we feel when we play these characters. It’s a film that I’m very proud to be a part of.
What drew me to the project in the first place was… Our writer and director, Clement Virgo, took care to keep the original David Chariandy novel intact. I’m an avid novelist and our script was wonderfully adapted to portray the nature of the world David created. It’s a clear indication of the integrity that this film will have, and I can honestly say that integrity was carried throughout the entire creative process.
When I played the role of Aisha, I was really able to resonate with… She is eager to share her newfound wisdom and life experiences with those she loves and cares about. Similar to myself, Aisha left her community to pursue her dreams, and upon her return she eagerly passed on her teachings to those she felt left behind. . She is learning that everyone moves at their own pace and is on their own journey. Her intentions are pure and positive, although a bit intrusive at times. This balancing act is what I really resonate with.
The stories that make me feel excited about working in this industry are… The drivers of story change exist in the real world: how women are perceived and their power often undervalued, how blacks and people of color are portrayed in the media , and we rarely get to see the wealth and beauty of their culture on screen. I’m excited to tell stories that challenge the way we see others, ourselves, and the world we live in. I believe that art has the power to make a difference and I am grateful to be a part of this industry. change and empower people from all over the world.
Aside from acting, some of my other passions include… Share time with family and have game nights! We’re a competitive team and enjoy playing games like Monopoly Deal and Mario Kart. (The Nintendo 64 version is my favorite.) I also like to spend personal time reading. It is almost always a fictional novel. The only non-fiction you’ll always find me reading is My Bible, which I read every day and keep my mind light and grounded in my facts. I also enjoy walking, yoga, and meditating in the sauna.
If you make me go to work, chances are I’m wearing… One of my five Doc Martens pairs, a jean jacket and a hat. I live in New York City and I’ve always strived for the comfort of not having to work. Most of my Doc Martens belong to characters that I have played and dressed well. Have you ever actually worn a pair of Doc Martens? They fit like a glove!
When it comes to fashion, I am a big fan of… Hat! I like a good hat for every season. I think they are the perfect way to enhance or wear a simple outfit. At the same time, they can also add a level of ease and comfort, depending on your goals. They’re versatile, practical, and take a lot of the pressure off my lifelong question — how should I do my hair?
My fall wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without these three pieces…
