Chase Stokes & Lana Condor Celebrate Valiant One’s Debut Director: “I Must Get This Right for My Friend”

Chase Stokes and Lana Condor are set to make waves in the thrilling new film Valiant One. Transitioning from their recognizable coming-of-age roles in Outer Banks and To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, the duo embarks on a high-stakes military operation set against the backdrop of North Korea. Stokes takes on the role of Sgt. Edward Brockman, while Condor portrays Selby, both of whom are thrust into unexpected peril during their mission that challenges their resilience and skills.

This project marks a significant evolution in both actors’ careers. Stokes is widely recognized for his portrayal of John B.in Outer Banks, a role he has held through four seasons. However, Valiant One presents his first leading role in an action-thriller. Condor, on the other hand, is revisiting her roots in the action genre, having debuted as Jubilee in 2016’s X-Men: Apocalypse.

As Valiant One prepares to premiere in theaters, ScreenRant caught up with Stokes and Condor to dive into discussions about their debut director Steve Barnett, their personal connections to the narrative, Stokes’s excitement for Season 5 of Outer Banks, and the uncertain future of Condor’s unreleased project, Coyote vs. Acme.

Steve Barnett Steps into the Director’s Chair for Valiant One

Insights on Working with a First-Time Director

Chase Stokes and Lana Condor in Valiant One

ScreenRant: What was your experience working with a first-time director like Steve Barnett?

Chase Stokes: Even though Steve is new to directing, he brings extensive production experience to the table. He’s contributed to iconic franchises like The Spiderwick Chronicles and 300. His background provided us with a reassuring sense of safety on set. Supported by a stellar production team, including Bernie Goldmann and Alan Powell, the atmosphere felt anything but inexperienced. Steve approached this directorial debut with seriousness, demonstrating preparedness and a genuine commitment to nurturing our creative input.

Lana Condor: Additionally, Todd Sharbutt, the associate producer and Steve’s friend, drew from his 25 years of military service, adding additional weight to the project. Steve embodied the responsibility that comes with portraying that authenticity. His dedication was evident in every aspect of the production.

Lana Condor Reflects on Her Character’s Motivation

Personal Ties to Military Service

Lana Condor Valiant One — Briarcliff Entertainment

Lana, your character Selby joins the military to give back to her country. How might her views on this commitment evolve after such a harrowing mission?

Lana Condor: My brother’s commitment to the Navy was grounded in the belief that he owed his life in America to his Vietnamese roots. He felt honored to serve. Looking back at Selby’s journey, I believe she would ultimately feel a profound sense of pride in her resilience and determination. Even after facing adversity, she would likely consider her sacrifices worthwhile, willing to stand up again if the need arises.

Chase Stokes on Leadership and Responsibility in His Career

The Weight of Taking Charge

Chase Stokes and Daniel Jun in Valiant One

Chase Stokes: Throughout my career, I’ve experienced various roles, from background work to leading roles. Embracing a leadership role involves unspoken responsibilities beyond just following the script. It includes setting an example and ensuring my co-stars are prepared. Though I’ve faced challenges, this film has been unique, as I shared the screen with incredibly talented individuals like Lana and Steve, who aspired to create an impactful story.

Chase Stokes on the Emotional Journey of Outer Banks Season 5

The Weight of Farewells

Rudy Pankow as JJ and Chase Stokes as John B in Outer Banks season 4

Chase Stokes: Saying goodbye to a character I’ve grown with will undoubtedly be bittersweet. John B embodies a part of me that has flourished throughout the series. From simply playing a role to engaging deeply in the creative process with writers, I have formed a genuine connection that extends beyond the screen. It’s vital for shows to conclude with care, ensuring the narrative resonates with fans, not just because of how it starts but how it concludes.

Does it feel strange without Rudy?

Indeed, it does. Losing a character is never easy, especially someone as significant as Rudy. His artistry and our friendship will always be cherished. While it’s heartbreaking to see his exit, I am equally excited for his future endeavors.

Lana Condor Discusses the Fate of Coyote vs. Acme

Awaiting Closure on a Beloved Project

Lana, regarding your film Coyote vs. Acme, are there any updates on its release?

Lana Condor: Unfortunately, I have no updates to share, which has been one of the most disappointing aspects of my career. We had a fantastic time creating that film, featuring collaboration with remarkable artists and innovative puppeteering. It’s heartbreaking to think that tax reasons might prevent audiences from ever seeing it. After receiving the news, I attended what was dubbed a “funeral screening, ”which was incredibly sad. I genuinely believe it showcased my best work to-date, carrying both humor and heart, making this situation all the more painful.

Valiant One: An Overview

Valiant One follows a small army unit in present-day Korea facing extraordinary challenges under the leadership of a soldier, Sgt. Brockman (Chase Stokes).When tasked with escorting a civilian contractor to the North Korean border to repair surveillance technology, their mission takes a perilous turn when extreme weather causes their helicopter to crash in enemy territory. As they navigate survival amidst adversity, Brockman and his team — including Selby (Lana Condor), Lee (Daniel Jun), Ross (Jonathan Whitesell), and tech specialist Weaver (Desmin Borges) — are pushed to their limits in a fight to escape.

Link to Trailer

Valiant One is currently available in theaters.

Source: ScreenRant Plus

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