by FilmInk Staff
The Vietnamese-Australian actress recently wrapped up filming for the role of Queen Sindel in Mortal Kombat II, marking a major milestone in her journey from consultant to star in one of the film industry’s most iconic franchises.
A Story Rooted in Culture – Ana’s journey began at Galang refugee camp in Indonesia, where she was born to Vietnamese parents who had fled post-war Vietnam by boat. Her family’s resettlement in Australia was fuelled by hopes of a safer life, and they eventually settled in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire.
“My parents worked tirelessly to provide a future for me, despite language barriers and financial challenges,” Ana shared. “Their sacrifices instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and gratitude.”
A lifelong love of stories took root early, becoming her comfort and eventually bloomed into her pursuit of acting after a successful career in a high-pressure consulting role at a top firm.
The Leap – While she valued her corporate experiences, Ana couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. “It wasn’t until one night when my partner asked what I would do if I could do anything, that I dared to say out loud: ‘I’d like to try acting,’” she recalled.
From that moment, Ana began her pursuit of a creative life. She enrolled in acting classes, devoured books on the craft, and devoted countless hours to auditions and independent films, while her parents held onto the hope that she might one day return to her consulting career.
Breaking Through as Queen Sindel in Mortal Kombat II – Ana’s persistence paid off when she received the call offering her the role of Queen Sindel in Mortal Kombat II. “I remember the moment—my heart was racing, and I felt like I was flying. Mortal Kombat has such a dedicated fanbase, and it’s an honour to portray such an iconic character,” she said, beaming.
The Mortal Kombat fandom welcomed her with open arms, and Ana embraces the chance to represent a powerful woman of colour onscreen. She’s passionate about advocating for diversity, both in front of and behind the camera, helping young Asian Australians see themselves reflected in the stories told on-screen.
Beauty on set – “My go-to essentials are always with me on set,” she shares. Ana relies on a few key products to keep her skin resilient, including her travel-sized Supple Preparation Toner from Klairs, Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant, Rejuvaus Repair & Refine ABC Serum, and Madagascar Centella sunscreen. “I think it’s so important to bring the skincare you need because your face is covered in heavy film makeup for long periods each day,” she explains.
Ana’s approach to beauty on set also includes a focus on deep cleansing. She reaches for Peter Thomas Roth’s Pre-Treatment Exfoliating Cleanser and the Sukin Signature Face Scrub for an effective cleanse after long filming hours. “A proper cleansing routine is the best gift you can give to your skin,” she says, adding that the process of cleansing and applying skincare has a calming effect that she finds truly meditative. At home, Ana creates her own honey and rice mask, a ritual that’s as nourishing as it is grounding. “I’m trying to find a pre-made rice mask to take with me when I’m away,” she adds, emphasising her commitment to keeping her skincare routine even while travelling.
