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Yuyu Kitamura is carving a quiet but compelling path in the entertainment world, blending raw emotion with thoughtful artistry. From her role in Netflix's Deadboy Detectives to her debut as writer, director, and star of the short film Invited In, Kitamura’s work delves into the fragile corners of mental health, grief, and identity. Drawing from her roots in both Hong Kong and the U.S., she brings a nuanced perspective to every project. In this interview, she reflects on the challenges of being a young creative, the evolving portrayal of mental health in media, and the inspirations that drive her growing body of work.
All images courtesy of Paul Sunga // Makeup by Jamie Smith // Hair by Anna Kay Simpson Upadek
In Deadboy Detectives, your character navigates both dark and complex themes. How did you prepare for the emotional depth required for this role?
Niko represents love and light. She is the pillar of the group through her positivity and optimism. And in a world where those around her struggle deeply to be vulnerable, she is a beacon for that. On the surface, who Niko is can come across as just a cute and pure girl but she’s going through grief and a fear of being unaccepted. Both are complicated and nuanced experiences that we all go through in such personal ways. I focused on being specific in the moments where they do seep through her usual bright persona and mapped out her growth throughout the season to let her experience shine through to show a new side to her.
If you could bring any supernatural power from Deadboy Detectives into real life, what would it be and why?
I would love to transport through mirrors! I'm always in the mood to travel or get somewhere ASAP.
You directed and starred in the short film Invited In. Can you share what inspired you to create this project and the key messages you wanted to convey through the film?
I’ve always wanted to create my own work, there’s something so exciting about looking at projects from different angles. I admit, at first, I had doubts questioning myself since I didn’t study writing, or directing, but the beauty in filmmaking is there’s no “one way” to do it. And I made my film during COVID so there really wasn’t a rule book other than be safe when making a film. Invited In centres around two young women using social media to connect during a time of isolation during the pandemic. I wanted to explore the importance of human connection during a period where we all had to face our own mental health struggles one way or another. As well as our need to be perceived in a certain way online.
As someone who has worked across different media – acting in television, directing short films – how do you feel the portrayal of mental health in film and television has evolved, and where do you think it's heading?
Representation is always important. To feel seen or heard through stories on screen is powerful. As the industry and viewers realise nuanced stories are important, eye-opening and adding to the colourful world of media, I believe that every step forward can be small but also incremental.
Directing Invited In must have been intense. Were there any funny or unexpected moments on set that still make you laugh?
It was the best experience because of the team that I put together. I was able to find like-minded creatives, and I championed to make a story about young women with women. Katie Lau is an incredible editor and DP and Alicia Sing was my producer. We joked all the way through that we were always under budget and on time. There is something deeply cathartic about the process of filmmaking, however difficult it can get, the gratification of finishing a project with people is humbling because you're reminded that you need to work together to make it happen.
You've lived in both Hong Kong and the U.S. – do you have a favourite comfort food from each place?
My go-to comfort food anywhere is noodles. I love local noodle shops in Hong Kong. There’s something so soothing about a bowl of noodles with some dumplings or fish cakes. When I’m back in New York, my first and last bite is ALWAYS Xian Famous Noodles.
What’s the most random item we’d find in your bag right now?
My dog Max’s first baby collar. He’s my world and when I travel I miss him so much that it’s nice to always have him by my side one way or another.
What advice would you give to young creatives, especially those who might be struggling with mental health challenges, as they pursue their dreams in such a competitive industry?
The reality is that the industry is more competitive now than back when I even dreamed of being an actor. The landscape is different and it’s always changing. But I always believe that if you love acting, go out there and try it however you can. Whether that be through theatre, your local classes, commercials, or voice-over work. Try it all, but also try it because you learn about the industry as a whole. There are so many avenues to be connected to acting whether you’re behind the camera or in front or working in a company to help push stories forward. Keep going because your dreams start as dreams but they can also come true!
