From heartfelt Australian independent cinema to the brutal world of Mortal Kombat, Ana Thu Nguyen is making her mark on the big screen. The actress joined Movieland Spotlight to discuss her latest projects, unforgettable experiences and love of cinema.
In her new Australian film Her Last Laugh, Nguyen plays Willow, the responsible older sister who inherits her late mother’s casting agency alongside her sibling. What follows is a touching story exploring family, grief, love and complicated relationships.
“It’s a movie that’s about the messiness of family, grief, loss, love, and just the beautiful moments in between,” Nguyen told Movieland.
Working alongside close friends, including Peter Thurnwald, made the experience particularly special, with Nguyen praising the natural chemistry between the cast.
Nguyen also spoke highly of director Joy, praising her passion for Asian Australian representation and her dedication to creating meaningful stories. Having admired Joy’s previous work, Nguyen described the opportunity to collaborate with her as an honor. For Nguyen, Her Last Laugh is more than just a family drama. It’s an uplifting celebration of human connection, reminding audiences of the importance of empathy, togetherness and finding joy even through life’s most difficult moments.
Of course, fans will also recognize Nguyen as the powerful Queen Sindel in Mortal Kombat II, she described joining the iconic franchise as a dream come true. To prepare, Nguyen revisited the games, explored Sindel’s history and worked to bring her own interpretation to the character.
She also recalled filming her spectacular fight sequence in the iconic Pit arena, praising the practical set design and the intensity of bringing the legendary battleground to life. During a hilarious moment, Nguyen even recreated Sindel’s infamous Mortal Kombat: Annihilation line, “Too bad you.. will die,” alongside our host!
Looking ahead, Nguyen teased her upcoming Australian horror film Dead Eyes, a first-person experience inspired by video games. From emotional storytelling to supernatural battles and terrifying horror, Nguyen’s career continues to showcase her versatility.
Watch our full Movieland Spotlight interview with Ana Thu Nguyen for more behind-the-scenes stories, laughs and movie recommendations.
Limited upcoming cinema screenings:
7th Nov at Reading cinemas – Brisbane
6pm with Q & A with Peter Thurnwald, Joy Hopwood & Christina Kim
https://events.humanitix.com/her-last-laugh-film-premiere
8th Nov at Lido Cinemas – Melbourne
6pm followed by Q & A with John Waters, Lyanna Kea, Tiana Hogben & Joy Hopwood
https://www.lidocinemas.com.au/movies/her-last-laugh
10th Nov at Cremorne Hayden Orpheum – Sydney
8pm followed by Q & A with Peter Thurnwald, Ana Thu Nguyen, Kya Stewart, Tony Goh and Joy Hopwood.
https://www.orpheum.com.au/movie/her-last-laugh-screening-live-qa