In an exclusive interview, Mae Ye shared her motivations behind choosing to collaborate with content creator Alice Chen. “Many brands today are seeking partnerships with individuals who possess captivating stories or excel in specific domains, in order to amplify brand influence and generate engaging discussions. Similarly, self-media content creators are progressively establishing their personal brand identities to navigate the market and explore new opportunities for growth and collaboration.”
“Alice, having embarked on a transformative journey during her teenage years through studying abroad, embodies the themes of self-discovery, fragmentation, confusion, and resilience. Her multifaceted experiences resonate with women on various levels, addressing issues such as self-doubt, low self-esteem, self-rejection, and body image anxieties that often accompany the path to personal growth.”
Mae Ye further elaborated on the evolving perception of beauty among contemporary women, stating, “Modern women embrace a more diverse understanding of beauty. It transcends conventional norms and celebrates beauty stemming from intelligence, individuality, imperfections, refined taste, continuous personal growth, and kindness towards others.”
“Alice encapsulates the essence of individual inclusivity, cultural diversity, and appreciation for individual differences. No longer confined to mundane stereotypes, women refuse to be labeled or defined; they embody the spirit of the ‘cool girl’ who embraces her unique identity.”
During the interview, Mae Ye addressed the editing process and the omission of certain footage in the final cut. “We meticulously crafted multiple versions of the film, ultimately dividing it into two distinctive parts. In the first segment, Alice remains faceless, symbolizing every individual’s relatability. The long-range shots depict her solitary walks amidst the cityscape or being embraced by bustling crowds, metaphorically representing the idea that each of us shares a common humanity. The second part gradually reveals Alice’s face, transforming her into a clear and distinctive individual who proudly claims her own name.”
TEAM CREDITS:
Creative Director: Mae Ye @mae_eee.
Director: Youn Jung Kim @_younjungkim_.
Muse: Alice Chen @aliceisnotfun.
Cinematographer: Doug Durant @dougdurant.
Stylist: Kerri Scales @kerri_scales.
Hair stylist: Yukie Yamasaki @yukikie.
Makeup artist: Taka Masa @go_ny_go_ny.
Editor: Kersti Jan Werdal @kerstijanwerdal.
Colorist: Brennan Barsell @brennanbarsell.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
