The world has long been shaped by tragedy, with history often defined by the remembrance of injustices and the empathy we try to extend to those who lived through them. It is vital to recognize and honor the legacies of those who were part of pivotal moments in history. At just 14 years old, Ariella Glaser made her impressive acting debut. Known for her role in “Radioactive,” she now faces the powerful challenge of portraying Sara Blum in “White Bird,” a character set during the harrowing period of World War II.

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Trousers by Maje
Shoes by Gianvito Rossi

At just 14, you instantly debuted in the 2016 film "Radioactive" alongside stars like Anya Taylor-Joy and Sam Riley. This is a major project to immediately jump into, did you feel any pressure to exceed acting expectations and avoid making mistakes?
It was a huge honor. I honestly don’t think me (or my mum) have ever expressed more excitement than when I found out. I definitely felt the pressure but was surrounded by the most welcoming cast and crew, especially director Marjane Satrapi and Rosamund Pike who played my mum. Being on a film set for the first time was so fascinating. It wasn't anything like I expected it to be and I kept getting told off for running away from tutoring to speak to different crew members about what they did on set.

Being only 14 at the time, what made you want to pick acting as a career path? Have you ever explored any other options on the side?
I’m not sure I really did pick acting then to be honest. I was very lucky that my school allowed me to go and throughout my career so far, I have been able to balance education with occasional shoots. I’m studying Politics at university at the moment and I feel super fortunate to have the support to be able to focus simultaneously on two areas that I find very enjoyable, important and fascinating. I love acting, reading scripts and being on film sets and I think I’ll try to balance both as long as I’m allowed to!

Dress by Lisa
Shoes by Gianvito Rossi
Rings by Deborah Blythe

Throughout the history of your career, is there a particular role or project you have been proud to be a part of?
Sara in White Bird was such a special character to play. I loved the complexities of the part, and the significance of the movie and its incredibly relevant message of kindness made the experience
of filming even more special.

The movie “White Bird” will be set to release in 2024 which is soon. However the release of this film has been delayed since 2023 due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. How excited do you feel to know the release date is arriving soon?
It's been as much of a journey after filming as during and I am just so excited for people to be able to finally see it. As the time has passed, its theme has only become more relevant. I really do think it's a very important film to be released in this day and age.

In the trailer we see you play a young Jewish girl named “Sara Blum” in a time period being during WW2. How did you approach portraying the complexities and challenges faced by your character during World War II? How did you prepare yourself for the role?
I had always been a huge fan of the Wonder novels. I found R.J. Palacio’s description of the Holocaust deeply moving and inspiring. As the story is rooted so intrinsically in a historical period, I found it very important to get the best sense of the time Sara lived in as I could. I learnt a lot about the period, especially young Jewish people living in Europe and their experiences before and after the Nazi invasion. As a Jew myself, with family who lived through and died in the Holocaust, I found it very useful and moving to delve into my own personal family history. Filming was an intense emotional period for sure but with the support of the crew, notably Marc Forster the director, I just felt very honored to be portraying Sara.

Suit by The Deck
Shoes by Gianvito Rossi

Without giving away any spoilers, do you believe the movie conveys an important message? If so, what do you think that message is?
The continued relevance of choosing kindness just confirms its importance. The imperative to be kind, even when it is difficult and requires extraordinary amounts of bravery, was incredibly significant a century ago and remains the same now. Also, I love how White Bird allows for the growth of characters throughout. Individuals (my character included) are not always kind, generous and brave from the start but they learn and grow throughout the film. It's never too late to start making kinder choices.

Suit by Hilda Yeoman
Shoes by Gianvito Rossi

On a day when you have complete freedom, how do you like to spend your time? Are there any hobbies you're currently passionate about?
Napping. I feel very strongly about napping. When I am awake though, I love to paint and draw – it calms me down.

Social Media.
Instagram: @ariellaglaser

Top by RXQUETTE
Trousers by Self Portrait
Necklace + Rings by Tilly Sveaas

CREW CREDITS:
Talent: Ariella Glaser
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: David Reiss
Fashion Stylist: Ella-Louise Gaskell
Hair: Chad Maxwell at Stella Creative Artists
Makeup: Sara Hill at The Wall Group
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Renee Birchwood

Ariella Glaser Seen in" White Bird"