STYLING
David Gargiulo
PHOTOGRAPHY
KEVIN SINCLAIR
Skylan Brooks is an American actor and musician. The 23-year-old California native got his big break in the film The Inevitable Defeat of Mister & Pete, a story about two inner-city boys who are left to fend for themselves after their mothers are taken away by the authorities. Skylan received rave reviews starring alongside Jennifer Hudson and Anthony Mackie for his performance and was nominated for the Young Artist Award for Best Performance. The nomination put him on the path to working with Forest Whitaker and Jake Gyllenhaal. Now, he captivates audiences again with his current leading role in the sci-fi thriller Outsiders. Skylan plays a black high school student who finds himself under suspicion after his classmate disappears during a house party, with prejudice quickly beginning to boil to the surface in his small southern town. "I have felt ousted growing up and that people didn't believe how genuine I was based on my predisposition. The way the script is written doesn't make the viewer feel like they need to pick sides, and it intelligently handles the topic with mystery and suspense," he says about why he chose to take the role. Skylan spends his pastime skateboarding and expressing himself creatively through the music he is currently recording in the studio.
Vestal sat down with Skylan to discuss how he navigates through Hollywood, his upcoming music album, and what he wants next for his career.
Skylan Wears: Suit and Shoes ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA, Sweater HUGO BOSS.
ShirShirt BALMAIN, trousers SANDRO PARIS.
(below ) Cardigan MISSONI, trousers SANDRO PARIS, shoes ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA.
"I’ve felt ousted growing up in some situations and felt that people didn’t believe how genuine I was based on predisposition."
Shirt NANUSHKA, jeans WALES BONNER, shoes ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA.
Vestal Magazine __ You started acting at a very young age. When did you decide that you wanted to become an actor?
Skylan Brooks __ I was modeling and doing print before my parents enrolled me in acting classes. After a few sessions, I began to learn and respect the art of acting.
VM __ How did you realize that you had a talent for acting and performing?
SB __ I remember going into auditions and putting everything I had into my performances. There were times when I was chosen right after an audition, which gave me foresight into what kind of future I could have if I continued doing it. That experience gave me the courage to continue and not worry about failing when I felt nervous. My parents really supported me in doing something I enjoyed, so I never stopped.
VM __ Your breakthrough role was The Inevitable Defeat of Mister & Pete. You received rave reviews on this film, and you were nominated for the Young Artist Award for the role of 'Mister,' starring alongside Jennifer Hudson and Anthony Mackie. What was it like working with such talented actors?
SB __ To this day, it was indeed my most rigorous introduction to what acting truly is. It’s a learning experience that I wish everyone could watch. I found the honesty within the script to communicate what I felt in the film, so it’s genuinely my most honest work as an actor. Working with Anthony Mackie and Jennifer elevated my performance and encouraged me to continue doing it. They helped guide me and advised me never to give up on myself.
VM __ The entertainment industry is full of stress and pressure, especially when you are a child star; what did you do to tackle the anxiety in Hollywood?
SB __ I always try to remind myself that I'm a human being and that the world doesn't revolve around me. It helps me center myself and block out the opinions of others. I clear my mind of any negativity before I do anything. It keeps me from putting too much pressure on myself and is essential for how I approach my creativity and performances.
VM __ Can you tell us about the most exciting thing that has happened to you since you got underway with your entertainment career?
SB __ Working with Jennifer Yuh on The Darkest Minds was surreal. She did all of the Kung Fu Panda movies, and I've loved her work since I was a kid. She inspires me in every sense of the word.
VM __ If you could star as any popular film character for your next venture, who would it be and why?
SB __ I’m highly interested in Static Shock from DC.
VM __ Your most recent role in the sci-fi thriller Outsiders has some racial tension. You play a high school student who finds himself under suspicion after your classmate disappears during a party. Why did you want to be involved in this production?
SB __ I feel that I relate to Jaylen Brown, the main character. I have felt ousted growing up and that people didn’t believe how genuine I was based on my predisposition. The way the script is written doesn’t make the viewer feel like they need to pick sides, and it intelligently handles the topic with mystery and suspense.
VM __ Was there anything challenging about bringing this script to life?
SB __ The main thing was being honest with myself. I tried to use my real-life experiences, and molding them into this character was the most uncomfortable part, but a challenge I felt worth rising to the occasion.
VM __ What has been your experience working with celebrities like Forest Whitaker, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Rachel McAdams?
Shirt BALMAIN.
Shirt SANDRO PARIS, jeans YOHJI YAMAMOTO, sneakers GUCCI.
SB __ There's a strong team behind every one of these brilliant actors. I think of acting like any other skill, and it always needs to be sharpened. They gave me a closer look into what consistency and conviction are.
VM __ Are you happy with the way things have shaped up for you in the industry?
SB __When I look at my overall career, I feel like I’m in a good place, but there is always room for improvement. Now more than ever, execution is the essential part for me.
VM __ Do you have any other significant interests or passions outside of acting?
SB __ I’m the executive producer of a TV show called Dope Dealer. I'm also in the process of recording a new music album. It is a Hip Hop/Jazz fusion. I’m excited to get to the finish line and hopefully go on tour eventually. Finally, I also have a few pilots I am currently working on.
VM __ What would you like to say to your fans?
SB __ First and foremost, thank you. Without your support, I wouldn't be where I am in my career. I am thrilled to entertain my fans and, at the same time, enjoy what I love doing. I hope to give back more significantly to my community and those who have believed in me along the way. Never forget to live in the moment and always take one day at a time.
Photography Kevin Sinclair, Styling David Gargiulo, Groomer Hee Soo Kwon, Talent Skylan Brooks (Anderson group PR)