Suzy Bemba, this year's European Shooting Star from France, never planned on becoming a professional actress. Her journey into the world of acting began as a way to express herself after a knee injury ended her ballet career and she had to switch gears. With the support of her mother, she started attending open auditions in Paris, driving for hours from their home in the French countryside.
After graduating high school, Bemba intended to pursue her dream of attending medical school. Acting took a backseat in her mind until she faced the possibility of repeating her freshman year. It was then, in April 2019, that she decided to take a break and try her hand at acting. The talent agency in Paris, which had shown interest in her, was still eager to work with her. On her first audition, Bemba landed a role in 'Kandisha,' a teen horror movie inspired by an ancient Moroccan legend about a vengeful demon. This marked her first time on a movie set, and she felt the rush of her newfound passion.
Despite returning to med school in the fall, acting opportunities continued to come Bemba's way. Her dance background played a role in her portrayal of Flora, a young ballerina, in the French series 'L'Opéra.' She also had supporting roles in films like Anthony Chen's 'Drift' and Catherine Corsini's Cannes competition title 'Homecoming,' where she played the lead alongside Esther Gohourou. Additionally, Bemba delivered a scene-stealing performance as Toinette, the French prostitute in Yorgos Lanthimos' Oscar-nominated 'Poor Things.'
Balancing her acting endeavors with her studies in medicine hasn't been easy. Bemba's parents pushed her to finish med school, and she continues to pursue both paths simultaneously. Although this arrangement can be challenging, she finds it beneficial in keeping the pressure off and providing a sense of balance. Bemba acknowledges the responsibility she has as an actress, especially as a Black woman, to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes. She carefully selects roles that align with her creative and political values, contributing to a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of characters on screen.
Bemba's activism extends beyond her roles in the industry. Alongside fellow French talents Ariane Labed, Daphné Patakia, and Zita Hanrot, she founded The Actors Association to combat harassment and advocate for better protections on film sets. France, too, is grappling with its own #MeToo movement, with allegations of sexual assault and abuse surfacing against prominent figures in the industry.
As Bemba's acting career takes off, she hopes to challenge preconceived notions about what a French actress should be like. While embracing opportunities to work with English or American directors, she also wishes for a shift within the French film industry to fully embrace the diversity and talent she represents. However, should her acting journey face uncertainties, Bemba can always fall back on her medical degree.
Suzy Bemba's story serves as a reminder of the unexpected turns life can take. From aspiring ballerina to medical student to rising actress, she has embraced each new chapter with grace and determination. With her talent, activism, and drive, there is no doubt that Suzy Bemba is on an inspiring trajectory toward success in both the world of acting and medicine.
