HM #27 – Interview Amber Afzali

Retrouvez l’interview VF dans HypnoMag #27, pages 4 à 11.

1. You started acting at a very young age to overcome your shyness. You discovered a real passion for this activity. Did you dream of becoming an actress as a child? 
I think that’s a good way to put it - a dream. I definitely discovered my love for it early on in life. After taking acting classes, I found my voice and realized how much I loved the art of storytelling. I even have an “All About Me” poster from 5th grade where I said my dream job was to become an actress, so in a way, it has always been in me, I just didn’t realize how much I would embrace it or how feasible this dream was. It was more about discovering something that allowed me to express myself in a way I hadn’t been able to before.
 
2. You then studied political science and international relations at the University of Pennsylvania. You now work in law alongside your acting career. What do you find exciting about it? 
I’ve always been passionate about making a difference in the world, and law gives me the tools to do that. Political science and international relations really gave me a broad understanding of the systems that govern us, while law allows me to have a more direct impact. I think both law and acting give me different ways to tell important stories - one on screen and one in everyday life. Both careers allow me to push boundaries, and I love the dynamic combination of the two.
 
3. The film Rule Breakers was released on March 7th  in Canada and the U.S. We hope that it will be released in other countries, including France, soon. Can you tell us the story in a few words? 
Rule Breakers tells the incredible true story of Afghanistan’s first all-girls robotics team, led by Roya Mahboob. The film follows these young girls who, against all odds, break through cultural and political barriers to pursue their dreams in STEM. It’s a story about resilience, empowerment, and defying expectations, showing the world the strength and brilliance of Afghan women.
 
4. The film is directed by Bill Guttenbag and written by Jason Brown (The Witcher, The Expanse) and Elaha Mahboob, the sister of Roya, the woman behind this women’s team. Were you able to meet Roya to understand and talk about her exceptional story? Was she present for filming? 
Yes, I had the privilege of meeting Roya and her sister Elaha before we started filming. They were both so open and generous in sharing their experiences, and it was an honor to hear their stories firsthand. Roya was on set for only a handful of scenes, but she and Elaha were both incredibly supportive and involved throughout the entire process. It was essential for me to understand their experiences to do justice to the story, and their insights were invaluable. I also want to extend my profound respect for the real-life coach Ali Mahboob and some of the girls, Soumaya and Raihana, who I had the chance to meet after filming.

Watch the trailer of Rule Breakers 

5. In the film, you play the role of Esin, one of the high school girls joining the women’s team created to participate in robotics competitions around the world. Do you think you have anything in common with your character?
Yes, definitely! Esin’s journey of finding her voice really resonated with me. Like her, I’ve had to overcome fears and doubts, especially in moments when I needed to speak up or stand my ground. Her story is a reflection of my own experiences - learning to push through insecurity and believe in my abilities. I think a lot of people, especially women, can relate to that. We all go through moments of self-doubt, but ultimately, it’s about finding the courage to move forward and use our voices.
 
6. What is your relationship to science and technology in this highly connected world?
I’ve always been fascinated by science and technology, and working on Rule Breakers only deepened that interest. As we live in such a connected world, it’s exciting to see how technology can be used to bring people together and solve problems. I’m always learning more, especially in STEM fields, and I love seeing women leading the way in these areas. I think it’s crucial to encourage more young women to pursue careers in technology and science, as we have so much to contribute to these fields.
 
7. This is your first film role...and it was, I believe, your first audition. What memory do you have of your audition and casting? 
Yes, this was my first film role and my first audition! I still remember how nervous I was but also how excited I felt when I got the call that I was cast. It felt like everything I had worked toward in my personal life up to that point had led to this moment. The casting process was a blur of emotion - getting to be a part of such an inspiring project meant everything to me. Immediately upon getting the call from my manager that I booked the role, I FaceTimed my parents in my college apartment, recording their reactions. I knew how special it would be for all of us. I’ll never forget how Bill and all those involved in the casting process made me feel like I truly belonged, and that gave me the confidence to dive deep into the role of Esin. 
 
8. Where was the film shot? 
The film was primarily shot in both Marrakesh, Morocco, and Budapest, Hungary. Each location brought something unique to the story - Marrakesh’s vibrant energy and history, and Budapest’s beautiful architecture that helped bring the setting to life. Both places felt like characters in their own right and added so much depth to the overall experience. There were a few real shots in the film as well, and those were filmed at a robotics competition in Houston, Texas and in the streets of Afghanistan.
 
9. In this film, you starred alongside Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag), Ali Fazal (Mirzapur, Death on the Nile) and Nikohl Boosheri (The Bold Type) among other people. What was the atmosphere like during filming? What did you enjoy most about the experience?
The atmosphere on set was fantastic. There was such a strong sense of camaraderie, and it was a real joy to work alongside such talented actors. Phoebe was effortlessly funny and kind, and I learned so much just from watching her work. Ali and Nikohl were also wonderful to work with - so grounded and talented. The chemistry between everyone made the experience feel like we were all part of one big family, and that energy really translated into the film. I loved how we all supported one another and truly enjoyed each other’s company.

10. Do you have a fond memory from filming to share? 
One scene that really resonated with me was the moment when Esin gives her speech on stage. As she looks out into the crowd, she sees the girls cheering for her, along with Coach Ali and Roya. For me, it was an emotional moment because I could feel the support and unity of the team, just as I felt supported by the cast. That moment of collective encouragement and solidarity felt so empowering, both for Esin and for me personally. It reminded me of the importance of having others believe in you, especially when you're stepping outside your comfort zone.

11. This film shows the incredible and challenging journey of a group of courageous and inspiring women. You are also an activist who advocates for the cause of Afghan women. What are your inspirations today? 
My inspiration comes from the everyday strength of Afghan women who continue to fight for their rights, even when the odds are stacked against them. Seeing young Afghan women like the Afghan Dreamers break through barriers in education and technology inspires me to keep pushing for change. I am also deeply inspired by my family, who remain resilient and united in the face of hardship and who never take the opportunities we are given here for granted. My activism is driven by a desire to uplift and amplify the voices of those who are too often silenced, and I draw strength from the resilience of women around the world who continue to defy expectations.
 
12. Apart from Rule Breakers, do you have a book or film to recommend to help people discover the Afghan culture and its history?
Unfortunately, there aren’t many films or books that truly showcase the full beauty of Afghanistan’s culture and history. However, Khaled Hosseini’s works, particularly The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, do a wonderful job of highlighting both the hardship and the resilience of the Afghan people while offering a beautiful portrayal of the social dynamics and culture within the country. During my time in Budapest, I came across The Forty-Year War in Afghanistan: A Chronicle Foretold by Tariq Ali. It’s a very well-informed, detailed look at the recent war-ridden history of Afghanistan, and I found it to be an insightful and eye-opening read. I think these works provide a window into Afghanistan’s history and culture, beyond what the world usually sees.
 
13. Would you like to say a few words about one of the causes that is close to your heart? 
One cause that is very close to my heart is advocating for Afghan women and girls, especially their access to education. I also feel strongly about refugee rights and the quality of life for those displaced by conflict. Having seen the struggles of refugees, it’s incredibly important to me that we raise awareness and work toward improving their living conditions. Drapen i Havet is a wonderful organization doing just that by helping refugees with education, basic services, and recreational activities. It’s an organization that truly embodies the spirit of giving back and improving the lives of those who need it most, and I’m honored to support such important causes.
 
14. Do you have another project coming up that you would like to tell us about? 
While I can’t share too much yet, I’m currently exploring some exciting opportunities. I’m really looking forward to the next chapter in my career and the chance to take on roles that challenge me creatively. I’m always drawn to projects that align with my values, so I can’t wait to share more soon!

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Crédits :
Photographe : Jason Villanueva
Images promotionnelles du film Rule Breakers : Courtesy of Angel Studios