J' Ma - A New Leading Lady and Bright Star. An Asian Australian Actress Rising.

Written by Tyrone Bruinsma

Many film industry experts a currently discussing the potential "End of the Movie Star"​. How big-name talents like Ryan Gosling can star in Blockbuster juggernauts like Barbie in 2023 and then flop with 2024's The Fall Guy underperforming. There are likely many reasons for this enigma for the industry, but it cannot be denied that audiences and critic's appreciation for genuine raw acting talent is still going strong. People notice and rag on weak performances more than ever, not tolerating laziness from actors. It's why it's great to know rising stars and talent can still shine through-such as one miss J' Ma.

Born in Taiwan and at moving to Australia at a young age, J' Ma was fascinated with film and acting at a young age-but did not take on the career until her adult life. Her first performances debuted in 2019, starring in short films like Breaking Tradition, Deranged, Together and Hallowed Stone. She also had small roles in feature films like the Brighton Miracle, How (Not) To Teach and Black Water: Abyss. She continued to work steadily over the years, starring in shorts, tv series like Mystery Exposed and Mystika, and films like Blue Falcon. She's now represented by Paul Newlands from Creme Management, whom J' Ma quotes as "The most amazing supportive agent".

In 2024, J' Ma took big strides in her career. She starred in an indie crime feature Streets of Deceit that will debut in 2025, played the title role in the upcoming American film Zilia and did a one woman show playing the hilarious and psychotic "Love Therapist" Dr Elizabeth B. Hawkers.  J' Ma's performance of the psychotic doctor was such a crowd pleaser, the actress has now taken to playing the character on social media as a satirical performance on "Life Advice Influencers" (many who give bad, regressive or warped advice). 

 J' Ma's growth and continued work shows less the "End of the Movie Star" and more the film industry failing to keep up with audiences. Thanks to social media, global access and diversity in both content and audiences-people are able to find and admire talent of all statures and countries. It needs to be reminded that big name talent needs to be earned through performance and audience love and is not a diagnosed fact. And audience good will is finite if you don't respect it. Red One, a movie starring billion-dollar names like Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans made only $182 Million against its $250 Million budget, whilst Alien: Romulus with NO name talent made $350 million.

While one could certainly argue quality products and trusted franchise/characters are the new commodity, there's many counters to that. People want good films, good stories and good actors, regardless of their nationality or stature. If Western audiences can be enthralled by Korean day time dramas and the movie Parasite-it shows prior recognition of actors is not the main selling point. 

 J' Ma has consistently proven to filmmakers and audiences (as well as herself) that she has the tools and talent to entertain, emotionally engage and wow audiences. It's likely as her stardom grows, so too will the scale of her projects. Due to J's humble nature and positive energy, I say she will take to this change in industry in stride and with respect. Asian actresses have made strides win recent years with Michelle Yeoh receiving critical acclaim and awards for Everything Everywhere All At Once, The Marvel Cinematic universe features Pom Klementieff (Mantis), Iman Vellani (Ms Marvel) and Gemma Chan (Sersi) and Hollywood frequently hiring actresses from all of Asia to star in major works. Many other Asian Australian talents have been rising to prominence such as Lark Lee, A Korean Australian actress and filmmaker currently showing her skills to international audiences and filmmakers.

I even sat with J' Ma for a text interview discussing various points on her beliefs, motivations and desires when it comes to the art of acting.

Interview with J' Ma

Where did your desire to act come from?
I have always loved watching films since I was a little girl. But I think the movie that made me want to be an actress will have to be James Cameron's Titanic. I watched it with my mum and ended up crying like a little baby. I of cause fall in love with Jack (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) I think that movie inspired me to be an actress, but I didn’t start acting till much later on in my life. 


What are your aspirations in acting?
To be able to create something that brings people together through shared humanity and connection. 


Where did you draw inspiration from to play Elizabeth Hawkers? 
I think she’s so loving and she just wants to make sure everyone is loved. So, I think of her as this wonderful caretaker and that just loves love, she believes love is the answers to everything.

I draw inspirations from my memories of actual events where I feel so loved and cared for. These moments when someone was kind to me or when I had the opportunities to help others. I channel these moments and how they made me feel emotionally then I use that energy for Dr Elizabeth B. Hawkers. Because even though her advice is not always the best although she believes they are she just wants what’s best for everyone. 

Is there an actor and character who has inspired you?
Lucy Liu and Michelle Yeoh have both been inspirational actresses to me. It has so important to see diversity on screen and seeing their acting journey has really inspired me.  Growing up I was constantly getting told that I look like Lucy Liu, and I hope one day I will get to meet her in person and work together.

Another actress who has truly inspired me is my best friend Caitlyn Leo, sadly she passed away in 2021. It was one of the toughest moments for me. However, she was a very talented actress who has a natural gift that portrayed so well in any characters that she plays she was kind supportive, and she inspires me every day to be a better person and to be a better actor and I’m constantly learning and thinking of her. Every project I do now is also for her. 


Is there an experience you have that revealed to you the power of what you yourself can achieve in acting?
One of the most powerful moments for me was in the film screening “Streets of Deceit”. I played a big supporting role in this film (Character’s name is Anya) playing her really showed myself the power of acting and storytelling, even though filming this project was during one of the toughest times of my life as this film began shortly after my friend passed away.

I was grieving while we were filming this project however the strength believing in myself to push through completing this project and surreal moment I felt when I was at the screening, seeing it on the big screen. And I will be forever thankful for that moment. 


Is there a film you think aspiring actors should have as mandatory viewing?
Titanic.  I am ALWAYS going to say Titanic. 


How do you view a script as an actor?
I dive into the character really deeply. I look at the script overall and really learn my character and develop myself within in the character seeking truth. I say connect my very authentic emotions through my character to connect with the audience.


How has your life changed since beginning acting?
I have learned to be more authentic and vulnerable and being completely honest with my emotions. I feel personal growth and strength since I started acting learning more about myself and also not be afraid to show the world who I am as a person and also through my characters. Resilient and loving what you do.


What makes a great director for you as an actor?
I am very fortunate to have worked with great directors in the past. What makes a great Director is somebody who knows their vision but also being able to open to suggestions and options. Someone who is able to guide you and show you what they are wanting. They understand the strength the actors have.


With the film world dominated by Comic Book adaptations, is there any Superhero/Supervillain you would wish to play?
I would love to play Wonder Woman. I think her ability to kick ass and show kindness is inspires me the most. 
Or Marvel can write a new Superhero for me!! 


Is there any wisdom you would impart upon aspiring actors?
Always believe yourself and if this is something you truly want to do just go for it and never give up and believe the power of storytelling, we are gifted with disability, so we need to keep going until we reach to the end. It is not a sprint. It is not a race. It is a marathon as long as you believe in yourself one day it will happen.

If you wish to learn more about this stunning and evolving actress (as a fan or filmmaker), please look at her website HERE!