

Clara top, Michaela cardigan and pleated pant, all by Adeam by Hanoko Maeda; earrings by Austin James Smith

French tuck knit dress with lace trim by 3.1 Phillip Lim; Selena pink suede and elastic sandal by Betzábe; sunglasses by Marc Jacobs

Perry puzzle jacket, Lulu shirt and Klein mini skirt, all by Ashlyn

Hanelis skirt in blossom sequins and Joyela top, both by Isabel Marant

T-shirt top by Zankov; Ella skirt by Adeam by Hanoko Maeda
BIBI XIA: How did growing up in the countryside of Northern Ireland influence you as a person and as an actress?
ISABELA FERRER: Growing up in the countryside of Northern Ireland shaped me both personally and professionally. The serene, open landscapes gave me the space to let my imagination roam freely, something I believe is essential for any actor. As a child, I had the luxury of frolicking through fields and indulging in the enchanting belief in fairies. This playful childhood instilled in me a sense of wonder and creativity that I carry into my work as an actress. Spending time in the vibrant, bustling city of New York exposed me to a different pace and culture, teaching me balance and adaptability. Both environments have enriched my perspective and approach to my craft.
BX: Do you have any favorite spots in the West Village (New York) that you find inspiring or relaxing?
IF: The West Village holds a special place in my heart. There are a few spots that are particularly dear to me. Bonsignour, a charming café on Jane Street, is one such place. As a child, I'd often stop by for their delicious ham and cheese sandwiches, and the owner, Danny, was always incredibly kind to me. Another favorite is Le Bonbonniere, a quaint diner that has gained popularity recently but has always been a staple for me and my best friend since childhood. Lastly, Corner Bistro is my go-to for a cozy dinner. These spots have not only provided comfort and nostalgia but also served as constant reminders of my roots and the simple joys of life.
BX: Can you tell us a bit about your character in the film "It Ends with Us"?
IF: I portray the younger version of Lily, the lead character. Without giving too much away, the story revolves around Lily's journey as she opens a flower shop in Boston, navigates complex relationships, and confronts deeply ingrained patterns in her life. The narrative beautifully explores themes of love, resilience, and the struggle to break free from cycles of abuse. Colleen Hoover’s book, on which the film is based, captures these themes with such nuance and empathy, making it a compelling story to bring to the screen.
BX: How did you prepare for your role in "It Ends with Us"?
IF: Preparing for the role of young Lily was a multifaceted process. I had the opportunity to meet with Blake Lively, who plays the adult version of Lily, and we discussed our interpretations of the character in depth. Watching some of her scenes also provided valuable insights. However, the key was to trust my instincts and bring my own understanding of young Lily to the forefront. By focusing on the core aspects of her personality and her relationship dynamics, especially with Atlas, I aimed to create a seamless transition from young Lily to her adult self. It was crucial to capture the essence of Lily’s journey and the emotional layers that define her character.
BX: How did you find working on a film that deals with such complex and emotional topics?
IF: Working on a film that delves into complex and emotional topics was both challenging and rewarding. It required a great deal of sensitivity and empathy to accurately portray the nuances of the characters’ experiences. The story’s themes of resilience and the struggle to break free from cycles of abuse resonated deeply with me, and it was important to approach the role with a genuine understanding of these issues. Collaborating with a talented cast and crew who were equally committed to honoring the story made the process incredibly fulfilling.
BX: How was the process of casting you as young Lily?
IF: The casting process for young Lily was serendipitous. It was a combination of perfect timing and a bit of luck. The role required someone who could convincingly portray a younger Blake Lively, and I happened to fit that description. The stars aligned in a way that allowed me to step into this role, and for that, I am immensely grateful. It’s a testament to how unpredictable and exciting the casting process can be, and I’m thrilled to have had the opportunity to bring young Lily to life.
BX: How was your experience working with Blake Lively as a producer?
IF: Working with Blake Lively was truly inspiring. Beyond her role as an actress, Blake brought a profound depth to the production as a producer. She had a unique ability to highlight the nuances of the story from a woman’s perspective, ensuring that the film stayed true to its essence. Her input was invaluable, from securing a Taylor Swift song for the trailer to providing guidance on the portrayal of complex emotions. Blake’s involvement went beyond the typical duties of a producer; she was deeply invested in every aspect of the film, making it a richer and more authentic experience for everyone involved.
BX: Did Blake Lively give you any memorable advice or guidance during the production?
IF: Absolutely. One memorable moment was during our first meeting where we discussed the character of Lily. Blake shared her vision and ideas so generously, and her passion was palpable. A few weeks later, she approached me to apologize, fearing she might have overshadowed my opportunity to express my thoughts. I was incredibly touched by her humility and consideration. She assured me that my interpretation of Lily was just as important as hers, reinforcing a collaborative spirit. This moment highlighted Blake’s generosity and respect, qualities that made working with her a truly enriching experience.

Jersey dress by Stella McCartney; crystal double hoop earrings by Self-Portrait

Dress by Zankov; cuff by Austin James Smith; Askia Sandals by Isabel Marant
BX: What inspired you to become an actress?
IF: My inspiration to become an actress stems from a deep-seated love for storytelling and the transformative power of performance. Growing up in the picturesque countryside of Northern Ireland, I was always captivated by the magic of stories and the emotional journeys they entail. This passion was further nurtured by my experiences in New York, where I was exposed to diverse cultures and narratives. The ability to step into different lives and bring characters to life is a profound and fulfilling experience for me.
BX: What has been the most rewarding part of your acting journey so far?
IF: The most rewarding part of my acting journey has been the opportunity to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. Seeing the impact that a character or story can have on someone’s life is incredibly gratifying. Each role I take on offers new challenges and insights, and the ability to grow both as an artist and as a person through these experiences is something I cherish immensely.
BX: What kind of roles are you looking forward to playing in the future?
IF: I am eager to explore a wide range of roles that challenge me and push the boundaries of my craft. Whether it’s complex, layered characters in intense dramas or light-hearted, whimsical roles in comedies, I’m excited about the diversity and richness of stories out there. I’m particularly drawn to roles that offer a deep emotional arc and allow me to delve into the intricacies of human experience.
BX: Are there any directors or actors you dream of working with?
IF: I would love to work with Ruben Östlund. His work is fascinating because he blends political commentary with comedy in a unique way. One of my favorite movies is "Force Majeure," which explores the dynamics of a family in a crisis situation. It’s such a compelling study of human behavior. As for actors, Jodie Comer is someone I admire greatly. She’s versatile and excels in theater, TV, and film. Joseph Quinn is another actor I find intriguing and would love to work with.
BX: What do you think is the most rewarding part of your acting journey so far?
IF: I think the people you meet are a huge part of it. For me, I'm a big extrovert. I love being around people. I've known actors from college who were conservatory-trained kids, which is such a small percentage of actors. When you work on a project like this, you meet people from all sorts of backgrounds, and it's fascinating. It expands my idea of what an actor is and what draws people to acting. You get to meet the coolest people, and it’s incredibly rewarding.
BX: What kind of roles are you looking forward to playing in the future?
IF: As a first-generation Irish Londoner, I'm intrigued by working with dialects. I have Irish, Northern Irish, and English dialects down pat because I’ve heard them all my life. I love imitating accents; it's like a party trick. I would love to do a period piece or a high-fantasy project like "Lord of the Rings" or "Game of Thrones." Something that taps into the English and Irish history that’s part of my family.

Silver rhinestone e fishnet maxi dress and crystal double hoop earrings, both by Self-Portrait; Askia Sandals by Isabel Marant

Gown by Acaria Studio

Silver rhinestone e fishnet maxi dress and crystal double hoop earrings, both by Self-Portrait; Askia Sandals by Isabel Marant

Silver rhinestone e fishnet maxi dress and crystal double hoop earrings, both by Self-Portrait; Askia Sandals by Isabel Marant

Terra bandeau top by Karla Colletto


from Sony Pictures film “It Ends with Us”