Ashley Singh was leaning into her internship with Tesla (solely six months into Austin, the place she had relocated) when she acquired some massive information — the type that modifications the course of your life in a serious means. Singh obtained a name that the majority content material creators can solely dream of; she was supplied a job in a film along with her idol, Lilly Singh. The movie, “Doin’ It,” would later go on to premiere on the South by Southwest (SXSW) movie competition, held in March 2024, and sort out one of the unstated and taboo subjects within the South Asian neighborhood: Intercourse.
Past leisure, the movie catalyzes discussions surrounding sexuality, id, and cultural norms. By difficult taboos and embracing various views, “Doin’ It” encourages audiences to confront societal stigmas and embrace self-discovery.
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Written by and starring Lilly Singh, “Doin’ It” is a couple of 30-year-old Indian American virgin who will get a job educating highschool sex-ed. The R-rated intercourse comedy tackles themes of id, intercourse, disgrace, and rising up. It’s additionally a narrative in regards to the unlikely individuals who come into our lives once we are least anticipating them and push us previous the bounds we’ve set for ourselves.
Talking about her journey to the large display screen, Singh defined, by way of a Zoom name, how supportive her mother and father have been once they discovered she’d been supplied the function.
I used to be simply so grateful that my mother and father have been very supportive as a result of I really feel like numerous mother and father in that state of affairs would have been like, you moved there, you signed the contract…you’re working, you’re making that cash, and also you’re going again to high school within the fall. However they stated, ‘it is a once-in-a-lifetime alternative. That is superb! Jobs will all the time be there. However that is one thing that’s so time-sensitive.’
Regardless of being a newcomer, Singh wholeheartedly embraced the demanding function of a highschool pupil, navigating the complexities of adolescence and sexuality whereas battling the continuing challenges of being a youngster. Initially anticipating to play a model of herself, Singh was bowled over when the director launched a brand new dimension to her character — a valley lady persona. Adjusting to this surprising twist proved difficult, however in the end rewarding, as Singh immersed herself within the function.
Singh’s journey from content material creation to performing exemplifies the evolving leisure panorama. Impressed by the rising intersection between social media influencers and conventional media, Singh seized the chance to audition for the function regardless of unconventional circumstances.
I began content material creation in 2020, through the pandemic, when numerous different creators did as properly. And my complete factor was like South Asian comedy skits; relatable stuff. After which once I noticed this chance they requested for an actor’s reel and my dumbass actually thought that I’d be sending my reel, like my Instagram reel. In order that’s what I despatched over. And the producers stated, ‘that’s not what we meant in any respect. However you appear to be a humorous particular person. And you appear to be you’ve match the entire vibe of the film.’
For Singh, transitioning from content material creation to performing required embracing uncertainty and stepping outdoors her consolation zone. Whereas embracing the “grey areas” of the business, she discovered the significance of taking dangers and seizing alternatives no matter preliminary doubts or limitations.
One of many highlights of Singh’s journey has been working alongside Lilly Singh, whom she’s been a fan of because the early days of “Unicorn Island.” Regardless of preliminary nerves, Singh discovered the enduring comic to be a welcoming and supportive co-star, fostering a optimistic and inclusive atmosphere on set.
I went to her “Unicorn Island” live performance about 10 years in the past. I feel there’s an image of me and her standing subsequent to one another. They’re carrying ‘the shirt.’ So it was loopy; I used to be simply taking a look at that and I felt very nostalgic. I used to be flying into Toronto and taking a look at that image. And I used to be like, ‘oh my god, the 12-year-old me would actually be screaming, crying, throwing up proper now, that is such a loopy expertise!’ She is such an power; she actually dominates the room.
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As Singh embarks on her subsequent chapter in Los Angeles, she’s starry-eyed and dedicated to pursuing her ardour for performing. One piece of recommendation she has for others: Embrace your passions, take dangers, and put your self in rooms the place you don’t belong since you by no means know who may simply take an opportunity on you.
Catch our Instagram Stay dialog with Ashley Singh and “Doin’ It” producer Anita Verma-Lallian beneath:
