The former High School Musical star underscored the importance of authenticity and being able to tell ‘genuine’ stories in getting big and far on the global stage.
Having been in the American entertainment industry for nearly two decades already, Vanessa Hudgens has been very fortunate enough to work alongside big Hollywood stars, including James Franco, Selena Gomez, John Cusack, and Nicolas Cage. During the media conference for her upcoming documentary film, held on March 31 at the Manila House in Taguig City, the Filipino American star, took her chance of advising young talents who aspire to reach Hollywood or the international entertainment arena.
“I feel like the most important thing with the entertainment industry, and the thing that I personally value the most, is telling that story,” she shared, noting how that aspect will be an essential part of the project she is currently doing in the Philippines. Hudgens is in the country to do the documentary film, The Awakening (working title), directed by Paul Soriano and produced by Ten17P Productions.
“For me the reason why I kept who I am, where I am, because it has always been the fact. It has always been about telling the stories that I’ve always been passionate about,” she added, putting extra emphasis on being authentic.
She forewarned young dreamers to not be involved in acting or film if their only goal is to get famous.
“If you’re trying to get famous, if that’s your goal…don’t do it with the entertainment industry. Go figure out something, but not in film because it’s a sacred thing,” she said, adding that being an actor is not about fame but being committed to telling impactful stories.
“I think that’s a very important thing to remember. It’s not about fame; it’s about telling the stories you’re passionate about,” she added.
Asked if she is more of an actor or more of a singer, the actress noted that while she got blessed to pull off the latter, her heart belongs to acting.
“I love singing buy it’s not necessarily my main passion. It’s something that I’ve been very blessed to be able to do really well, but I feel like I’m more comfortable telling stories through stories rather than songs,” she told the press.
Hudgens is the daughter of Gina Guangco and Gregory Hudgens. It is interesting to note that doing the documentary marks her first time being in the country.