JARED MENANE: What was it like being directed by someone who's spent so much time in front of the camera? Any moments on set that really stood out?
MENA MASSOUD: It’s always a gift getting to work with a director who deeply understands and cares about the actors and so naturally, a director who is an actor falls into that category. On top of that, Julia is the most generous listener and collaborator. She balanced the many facets of directing so well and I was able to learn so much from her throughout the process. 

JM: Your character in the film-what did you love most about playing him? Was there anything about him that felt close to home, or was he totally different from you? 
MM: Getting to step into the shoes of a character who for one, was based on a best-selling book, and two, was going through being terminally ill really challenged me. I hadn’t had the opportunity to do that before and anytime I can do something new to be able to improve on my craft is a blessing. Aladdin was a pre-existing IP as well, but this being a book was different because there’s so many details to pay attention to. On one hand, there’s such a well-developed character to draw from in a book, but on the other, you have to distill parts of their story, because a script is much more condensed than a novel. I loved the process of that.  

JM: Your character in the film has a unique journey-what drew you to this role, and how did you prepare to step into his world? 
MM: When I heard Julia was directing and I read the book, that was all I needed to commit to the project. I spent some time speaking to a neurologist about glioblastoma and the many ways in which symptoms can manifest in people. Of course, the book provided some great details, but we had to make some tough decisions while considering a lot of factors like limited shooting schedule, audience appeal, etc. I also had to learn how to get into that headspace of someone who is young, seemingly has their whole life ahead of them, but is terminally ill. The survival rate is bleak. Having a great acting partner was crucial, so I’m grateful I had that in Isabelle.

JM: You've had such a diverse career, from Disney's "Aladdin" to indie films and even food entrepreneurship. Do you see a common thread in the roles and projects you choose, or do you just go with what excites you? 
MM: I think I’m at that point in my career where I’m still exploring, searching and growing. There are many archetypes I still haven’t had the privilege of playing so I’m always searching for something I haven’t done before. I hadn’t explored this exact genre before, and as difficult as getting into that headspace was, I really did enjoy getting to film a heavy drama like this. When I had the opportunity to play a villain in Sacrifice Game, I also jumped at that chance. So, if it’s something I haven’t done before, it always catches my attention. I’m lucky I’ve had the chance to do everything from sci-fi to romantic comedies, to political dramas and every day on set is a blessing. 

JM: Hollywood is evolving, but there's still work to do when it comes to representation. Have you seen real progress, and what's something you think still needs to change? 
MM: Everything everywhere is always evolving. Evolution in its nature is a slow process, and you have to be patient and grateful for that change. I’ve learned that having a visceral, emotional reaction to that benefits no one. As an actor, doing the best work I can do, with the opportunities that are presented to me, is the best possible thing I can do. 

JM: How would you describe your personal style off-screen? Are you more of a "comfort-first" guy, or do you like to experiment with fashion?
MM: On a day-to-day basis I’m certainly comfort-first but when I show up, I show out. I love wearing the funkiest things I can find from designers and pick a piece and be able to accessorize it to match my personality that night. I’ve had the pleasure of wearing some killer looks from Zegna, Valentino, Dior and Dolce to name a few and it’s always the highlight of my day. 

JM: If you could swap closets with any character you've played, who would it be and why? 
MM: Wow, what a cool concept! For an all-class, expensive closet, it would have to be Prince Thomas from The Royal Treatment. He had some sharp suits in rotation, but I think, just by a hair, it would have to be Ethan Hart from Reprisal. That costume design was just so cool. The whole world we built in that series was a combination of 80’s motor gang and early 2000’s Vegas. It was just so unique, and I loved everything about his style, his hair, his tattoos. It was a really cool show. 

JM: You're big into plant-based food with Evolving Vegan-has working on that changed the way you travel or experience new places? 
MM: Certainly. For one, I’ve become an expert at using Google Maps’ Lists feature for a while now. I usually curate all the places I want to hit up before I even land and that creates a certain kind of excitement around my trips. At the same time, one of the pillars of Evolving Vegan is not letting your choices weigh you down. What you eat is a personal choice and a personal choice only. The judgement around what people eat and how they eat has gotten out of control and that was one of the main reasons I started Evolving Vegan. It’s all about the process, the journey, and the empowerment behind making good choices. 

JM: Between acting, writing, and business, you've got a lot on your plate. How do you unwind when you're not working? 
MM: I love setting a fitness goal and working towards it. Focusing on something physical is always a huge de-stressor for me. When I get the chance, which is not often enough, I love to saddle up and go for a ride. I hope one day I can have my own horses which will make that much more accessible. And travel. There’s nothing like being on a different time zone and putting work on hold. Getting to explore a different culture and be on the other side of the world certainly helps me unwind. 

JM: In light of the film's own thematic elements, what's next on your bucket list—whether in film, business, or just life?
MM: Man, I’m just trying to live in the moment and be open to anything and everything. All we can do is work hard, hope for the best and be open to the endless possibilities that life has to offer. I’d love to work on a series again. I’ve really been diving deep into the world of film that past few years, which has been an absolute blessing, but I also miss getting to spend 6-9 months with a character. TV shows are a different beast, and I do miss that deep exploration that comes with that. Whatever life throws at me is a blessing.