Justin Chien is an emerging Taiwanese-American actor making a significant mark in Hollywood. Best known for his breakout role in The Brothers Sun on Netflix, Chien’s journey to fame is rooted in his passion for acting, his dedication to martial arts, and his upbringing in a prominent Taiwanese family. Through his work in film and television, Chien showcases his dynamic skill set, both on screen and behind the scenes.
Early Life and Family Background
Born to a prominent family in Taiwan, Justin Chien’s background is as interesting as his acting career. His father, Carl Chien, holds a prestigious position as the CEO of J.P. Morgan Taiwan and Vice Chairman of Asia Pacific at the global investment firm. Chien’s lineage includes politicians and diplomats like his grandfather, Fredrick Chien, who served as the President of the Republic of China Control Yuan. Despite coming from a family with deep roots in finance and politics, Justin Chien chose a different path, one shaped by his passion for the arts(
Education and Early Career
Chien pursued his love for acting at the University of Southern California’s (USC) School of Dramatic Arts, where he obtained a BFA. At USC, he dove deep into theater, honing his skills through various stage productions. Notably, his performance in the school’s rendition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream earned him the attention of his manager, a pivotal moment that launched his acting career.
Chien’s proactive approach to learning set him apart early on. In addition to completing his general education, he pursued filmmaking courses on screenwriting, editing, and cinematography, which prepared him for the multifaceted demands of the film industry. This comprehensive education equipped Chien not only as an actor but also as a writer, producer, and director. His early works include short films like Reverallium and Continuum, showcasing his versatility.
Martial Arts and Its Influence on His Acting
What sets Justin Chien apart from many actors is his dedication to martial arts. For over a decade, he has trained in Muay Thai and more recently earned a blue belt in jiu-jitsu. These skills have not only shaped his personal life but have also directly impacted his acting career. His proficiency in martial arts made him an ideal choice for physically demanding roles like Charles Sun in The Brothers Sun. Chien’s fight scenes in the show are particularly praised for their intensity and realism, leading many to draw comparisons to Keanu Reeves’ work in John Wick.
His commitment to physical preparation for his roles goes beyond just learning choreography. For The Brothers Sun, he worked closely with fight choreographers to ensure the authenticity of his action scenes, a process that was both physically and mentally taxing. However, this dedication paid off, as his performance in the action-packed series has been hailed as a breakthrough in his career.
Breakout Role in The Brothers Sun
Justin Chien’s portrayal of Charles Sun, a ruthless assassin with a deeply emotional side, in The Brothers Sun has been widely praised by audiences and critics alike. The series, which blends action, drama, and family dynamics, showcases Chien’s range as an actor. His ability to transition from intense fight scenes to emotionally charged moments speaks to his talent and dedication to the craft.
Chien has cited actors like Tom Hardy and Hugh Jackman as major influences on his portrayal of Charles. He was particularly drawn to Hardy’s ability to play characters who are both brutal and vulnerable, a complexity that Chien sought to bring to his own performance. This layered approach to his character resonated deeply with him, making the role of Charles one of the most significant in his career so far.
Working with Michelle Yeoh and the Cast of The Brothers Sun
One of the highlights of Justin Chien’s experience on The Brothers Sun was working alongside legendary actress Michelle Yeoh, who played his on-screen mother. Chien has described Yeoh as a mentor and a source of inspiration, praising her warmth, professionalism, and humility. Their on-screen chemistry was evident, and their off-screen friendship left a lasting impact on Chien. He recalls how Yeoh’s guidance helped him navigate the pressures of working on such a high-stakes production.
The camaraderie among the cast members of The Brothers Sun extended beyond the set, with Chien noting that the intense filming schedule fostered a close-knit environment. The shared experiences, both challenging and rewarding, deepened the bonds among the cast, making the show’s emotional arcs even more authentic.
A Growing Career in Hollywood
Beyond The Brothers Sun, Justin Chien has been steadily building a diverse portfolio of work. His early career includes appearances in various short films, such as Minolta and Cyclists, which allowed him to explore a range of characters. In addition to acting, Chien has also ventured into writing and producing, with projects like Fine China and Endless Yesterdays under his belt.
As Chien continues to grow as an actor, writer, and producer, he remains committed to expanding his horizons. His multifaceted approach to his career reflects his desire to take on challenging and diverse roles, while also contributing creatively behind the scenes. With his blend of martial arts expertise, acting chops, and creative vision, Chien is poised for even greater success in the years to come.
Conclusion
Justin Chien’s rise in Hollywood is a testament to his talent, hard work, and unique background. From his early days at USC to his breakout role in The Brothers Sun, Chien has demonstrated a commitment to his craft that sets him apart from his peers. His martial arts training, coupled with his acting skills, gives him a distinct edge in action-packed roles, while his ability to portray complex characters promises a bright future. As Chien continues to navigate the entertainment industry, there’s no doubt that he will remain a force to be reckoned with, both on-screen and behind the camera. See More
