She had since starred as the leading lady in a movie, appeared in numerous drama series, rubbed shoulders with some of the hottest Korean pop idols and now, she’s on her way to international stardom with her first film production in China.
“It feels like a dream come true,” said Tan at the press conference of the Singapore-China co-production film, ‘Mystery’, yesterday.
Tan is the only Singaporean actress in the thriller where she plays an agent to the lead character played by Taiwanese actress-singer Ady An. The film also stars ex-member of the now defunct Mandopop boy band Fahrenheit.
“I’ve been in the local industry for seven years and was a little comfortable with where I was and what I had. In China, I was really nervous and afraid - something I’ve not felt for quite a long while,” shared Tan.
“That (nervousness) is actually something positive as it forces me out of my comfort zone. It’s a different kind of motivation for me as an actor.”
Mystery, which opens in theatres today, 20 March is produced by Eula Lee Yu Xuan, written by Wendy Lee and directed by Wu Bin; all of whom sang praises of Tan, calling her a ‘young actress who can act very well’.
Producer Lee shared that Tan suited the character perfectly and had her eyes on the starlet after watching various TV dramas and videos online. “We were looking to cast someone from Singapore from the very start when we had the script on hand. When I saw Julie, I felt that the she really suited the character that was written, both Wendy and I agreed that only Julie could do this perfectly.
Although Tan’s role in this production is minor compared to her meatier roles in Singapore, she didn’t mind the amount of screen time as she felt it was a 'learning experience'.
She said: "Although it's a small character, but it's after all the first movie in China. It doesn't matter if the role is big or small because to me, it's an opportunity to learn.
If an opportunity like this arises and I am still picky on how much screen time is given, then I'll never be able to take that first step."
"Yes, it is small but I have learnt a lot," said Tan.
Mystery opens exclusively at Filmgarde Bugis+ today!