Talent: Gulnazar. Photo: Ted. Jumpsuits, Alaia. Hoop skirt, Bad Binch Tongtong – Terrence Zhou. Shoes, Valentino.
Gulnazar, a mainland Chinese actress hailing from Urumqi, Xinjiang Province, garnered recognition at the age of 19 for her role as the innocent and slightly naive Yu Xiaoxue in the popular TV series Xuan-Yuan Sword: Scar of Sky.
Awakened from her sleep, clad in a pristine white dress with doll-like curly hair, Yu Xiaoxue embodies a gentle romantic aura amidst a subtly intense storyline. Twenty-two years later, as a resting red rose encased in the petals of designer Terrence Zhou, she stands beneath a fading medieval chandelier, exuding delicate elegance. As a hazy light seeps through the window, she opens her eyes, meeting the gaze of the camera, having transformed into a captivating woman. This beautiful scene has etched an indelible memory into the minds of the audience.
Recently returning from filming in the snowy mountains for Jackie Chan’s latest film, A Legend, Gulnazar still carries the chill of her experience. When asked about the potential stress of her role in the film, she responds, “There will be pressure, but there is also motivation.” Onscreen, her evolution from beauty to power is magnificently amplified. Below, we present our full interview with her.
Jumpsuits, Alaia. Hoop skirt, Bad Binch Tongtong – Terrence Zhou. Shoes, Valentino.
Harper’s Bazaar (HBZVN): Dear Gulnazar, you recently revisited Xinjiang and returned to your Alma mater. Has your Alma mater undergone significant changes? What message would you like to convey to the students who consider you as their role model?
GULNAZAR: Indeed, my Alma mater has undergone substantial changes. Many of the former classrooms have been repurposed for other uses. Nevertheless, regardless of the time that has passed, returning to my Alma mater still evokes a sense of familiarity and comfort within me. Observing the younger students, I am filled with admiration for their enthusiasm and increased vitality. My hope for them is to discover their own aspirations, pursue their dreams, and engage in activities they are passionate about.
Jumpsuits, Alaia. Hoop skirt, Bad Binch Tongtong – Terrence Zhou. Shoes, Valentino.
HBZVN: Your relationship with your family is remarkable. What significance do they hold in your life?
GULNAZAR: My family serves as my backbone and pillar; they consistently provide me with unwavering support. Regardless of the challenges or moments of sadness I encounter, I know that whenever I turn to them, they will always be there to offer their support, love, and embrace me.
HBZVN: You’ve portrayed various characters through cosplay on the show “The Detectives’ Adventures.” Are there any roles that you’re hesitant to take on?
GULNAZAR:: There isn’t a role that I fear taking on. Whenever I have the opportunity, I am willing to give it a try.
Jumpsuits, Alaia. Hoop skirt, Bad Binch Tongtong – Terrence Zhou. Shoes, Valentino.
HBZVN: Would you like to challenge the perception of being called a “dumb beauty” by many of your adoring fans? What three adjectives would you prefer to be associated with?
GULNAZAR:: No, because everyone is evolving. In the past, I may have shed tears and faced situations that made me want to shrink or avoid. However, I believe that life is a journey of growth, stumbling and falling, even if it means being foolish at times. I want people to see me as mature, confident, and courageous.
Jumpsuits, Alaia. Hoop skirt, Bad Binch Tongtong – Terrence Zhou. Shoes, Valentino.
HBZVN: People have shown great kindness and support for you on “Cute Detective.” However, you have said, “This is a game of concealment, not trust.” What is your perspective on your performance on the show? Are you a reserved person in your daily life? If so, when do you tend to withdraw?
GULNAZAR:: I would rate my performance on the show as a 70 out of 100. While I have successfully completed several missions, there is always room for improvement. Therefore, I have given myself a score of 70. Generally, I am not someone who conceals things. If there is an issue, I prefer to address it directly and engage in open communication to find a solution.
Dress, Oscar de la Renta. Bracelet, Givenchy. Shoes, Giuseppe Zanotti.
HBZVN: During a live broadcast, you mentioned being a social ox. Are you still open to meeting new people and forming new friendships?
GULNAZAR:: Absolutely! If I come across someone who shares a similar personality and compatibility, I would be more than willing to forge a new friendship.
Top and skirt: Jumper Zhang. Shoes, Mooniiee. Necklace and earrings, Zegl.
HBZVN: Snow Eagle Lord seems different from the typical fairy tale romance as you will be fighting alongside three partners with distinct identities. The film conveys a strong sense of teamwork. Can you provide some insights into your understanding of the character Yu Jingqiu?
GULNAZAR:: I perceive Yu Jingqiu as an intelligent, hardworking, and courageous individual. She was an outstanding student, consistently striving to achieve her goals. Despite her reluctance to reject others outright, she carries both deep and subtle affections within her heart, making her a captivating character.
Top and skirt: Jumper Zhang. Shoes, Mooniiee. Necklace and earrings, Zegl.
HBZVN: Recently, you completed filming the winter scenes for the movie “Legend” in Xinjiang. Did you feel pressured playing the lead role in a Jackie Chan film?
GULNAZAR:: Undoubtedly, there is still pressure, but it also serves as motivation. Everyone involved is working diligently for the film and their respective characters. I hope that audiences will enjoy it.
HBZVN: The movie ‘A Legend’ revolves around adventure. Did you encounter any thrilling experiences while filming in Xinjiang?
GULNAZAR:: Recently, I’ve been undergoing horse riding training, and it’s truly exhilarating to work with animals. You never know how they might react, adding an element of excitement to the filming process.
HBZVN: After exploring various roles, what kind of character would you like to tackle next?
GULNAZAR:: Actually, I’m eager to embrace the challenge of portraying a villainous character
Top, Esseri Senzienti. Skirt, Chundie Zhu. Wrap, Markgong. Shoes, Le Suanda. Bracelet, Yanxue. Armlet and ring, Annxu.
HBZVN: Your photoshoot for Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam showcases a strong and elegant portrayal of female power. How do you define ‘female power’ in your perspective?
GULNAZAR: In my opinion, female power is characterized by confidence, bravery, clarity of thought, and wisdom. It involves daring to stay true to oneself and radiating brilliance in any chosen field.
HBZVN: In recent years, your image has transformed significantly, shifting more towards portraying a strong and independent woman. Are you equally bold in your personal life?
GULNAZAR: In my private life, I wouldn’t describe myself as exceptionally bold, and at times, I still have concerns and worries. However, I aspire to gradually cultivate more courage and strength.
Ring, Ahloops.
Speaking of personal growth and resilience, Gulnazar expressed her current mindset on June 5th of this year. Just one week after the aforementioned photoshoot, she reopened the comment section on Weibo, allowing for feedback and criticism after seven years of closure. She wrote, “What used to be something I couldn’t confront now holds no power over me.”
Suit, John Richmond. Earrings, necklace, and ring, Ahloops.
Team credits:
Talent: Gulnazar @nz0502.
Executive Producer: Zhiyu Qu @zhiyu_qu.
Executive Fashion Director: Vermouth Liu @mr.vxx.
Digital Director: Austin Li.
Interview Editor: Derek Murdock @derekmurdock.
Production Manager: @rock.mgmt.
Producer: Nan Zhang.
Stylist: Zheng @stormwhisper_.
Photographer: Ted @teddddy324.
Makeup: Tianqi Hua.
Hair: Wen Lie @wenlie_0614.
Videographer: Haw.
Modeling: Maple.
Interview Editor: Tina Zhu @tinachuu_.
Editor Assistant: Dragon.
Fashion Assistant: Cheche, Jingjing.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
