A Cool Model, Writer & Filmmaker Talks Favourite Movies, Playlists & More

What was your last in-flight watch?

I never download a film for a long flight — I prefer seeing what the airline has to offer. It feels like rare, uninterrupted time to catch up on movies I’ve missed. On my last flight back from Dubai, I watched Fly Me To The Moon. I’d missed it in the cinema but really enjoyed it, partly because I love Scarlett Johansson, and partly because I didn’t expect something so NASA-focused to feel so relatable to the work I do.

A recent binge-watch?

I devoured The Residence in 48 hours. I love a good murder mystery and this one felt refreshing because the detective was a Black woman – it felt like a different perspective for the genre. Right now, I’m eagerly waiting for Wednesday to drop.

Which series do you return to time and again?

I don’t usually rewatch shows – there’s too much choice out there. But when I do, it’s often history-focused or something on Nat Geo. I’ve rewatched Graham Hancock’s Ancient Apocalypse a couple of times because I made my mum and husband watch it too. I like how he challenges established theories and builds his own arguments. For scripted series, I’d happily revisit The Mandalorian or Dune: Prophecy – especially the latter, as I’m working on a film project and find it inspiring for research.

What’s your definition of comfort TV?

The Prince of Egypt is pure nostalgia for me – and the songs are incredible. In general, I’ll turn to animated or adventure films when I want comfort: Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park are favourites.

What was the first book you downloaded this year – and did you finish it?

I’m a bit old school – I prefer physical books. The first book I picked up this year was Big Panda And Little Dragon, which is such a beautiful book for both adults and children. I’ve read it before, and it’s one you can dip in and out of. In terms of adult reads, I started Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long And Happy Life, but I blame London traffic, social media editing and constant WhatsApps for stealing my reading time!

Have you read a ‘pleasant surprise’ book?

I’m currently reading Trading In The Zone by Mark Douglas, as I’ve recently started trading. I was surprised by how similar the psychological journey is to other creative or entrepreneurial pursuits. I’m also reading Britain and Barbary 1589-1689 by Nabil Matar – heaven for a history nerd like me. I studied English literature and history because I’ve always wanted to write stories rooted in our past. For me, history is both escapism and essential knowledge. That’s why I often choose non-fiction over fiction – I already watch plenty of films, so I like my reading to feel more educational.