Coming soon is the new film Hello Beautiful, based on the book, “Walk Beside Me.” Here, courtesy of Jaylan Salah is an interview with the author, Christine Handy, and the film’s director, Ziad Hamzeh.
First, the author, Christine Handy.
Jaylan Salah: How difficult and rewarding is it to write from your personal pain?
Christine Handy: Writing from my personal pain presented both challenges and profound rewards. The daunting navigation of emotions was initially challenging, however, this same vulnerability also served as a catalyst to insure others felt less alone in their similar affliction. When we decide to be a vine instead of a victim to our circumstances, it becomes an easier endeavor to write about personal pain.
JS: When did you first see Willow fully manifest on paper?
CH: The first time I vividly saw Willow on paper was during the early drafting stages of my book. Ironically, I immediately saw her flaws and insecurities. Those traits quickly emerged as the core of her character throughout the book. As I continued to shape the novel, I realized Willow’s evolution from a figure constrained by self-doubt into one of resilience and empowerment. This character arc on paper, became a profound source of reflection for me in my own life. It wasn’t until the book was near completion that Willow’s true manifestation came to life.
JS: How did your former modeling career help in enriching your writing?
CH: The discipline and persistence required in modeling- maintaining physicality, and managing schedules—translates well to the writing process. As a model, I had to navigate diverse environments and perspectives, which enhanced my interpersonal skills. Collaborating with photographers, designers, and directors demands clarity of expression and adaptability, qualities that are equally valuable in writing. Lastly, the long term commitment to my modeling career enhanced my resilience in the face of rejection, which is prevalent in both industries.
JS: What is the important message that you want audiences to take from this film?
CH: The essential message I wish for audiences to glean from this film is that a cancer diagnosis does not mean an end to life. I also aim to illustrate the intricate nature of the disease as it impacts the entire family unit and how each member is affected. Lastly, it is my goal to emphasize the critical role of friendships during times of trauma and illness. The act of being present for one’s loved ones can genuinely be life-saving. For every writer, seeing characters that they wrote become flesh and blood on screen is a magical moment.
JS: How did you feel seeing Willow played by Tricia Helfer for the first time?
CH: To be honest, I was mesmerized by Tricia’s portrayal of Willow from the very beginning. Tricia and I had a few zoom and phone calls prior to meeting on set. During those initial talks, she asked me insightful questions about Willow’s personality and relationships. Tricia and I both come from a modeling background. I believe that helped her understand some of Willow’s nuances and insecurities. Tricia also read my book in addition to the screenplay. Tricia’s professionalism as an actor really shows up on screen. I continue to be in awe of her powerful and precise portrayal of Willow.
JS: How does Hello Beautiful tie in with your responsibility as a breast cancer advocate?
CH: The movie depiction of my book is a vehicle to further provide hope to the cancer community. I wake up every day with the intention and motivation to be a source of strength and wisdom to anyone battling cancer. This project is meant to be a greater outlet of positive influence because it has the ability to impact a larger audience. One of the most important ways to help others is through honest and vulnerable storytelling. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I sought out films and literature to assist me in understanding the cancer journey. I found many films that did not end in hope. Because of this, it became my goal to find a way to produce a film that negates the hopelessness that some films have shown.
JS: What were the most difficult characters to write? Which ones were the most fun?
CH: I struggled to write all of the characters. I would not consider myself a professional or seasoned writer. After I published my book, “Walk Beside Me,” in 2017, I attended Harvard University to earn a Masters Degree in Literature and Creative Writing. Prior to that, my sole career was modeling. My writing skills improved significantly during my studies at Harvard. The ‘fun’ characters I wrote were Willow’s meaningful friendships. Accurately depicting those friendships served as a means to highlight the importance of friendships in life and through times of tremendous struggle.
JS: How do you as a writer ensure authenticity in writing truth while protecting yourself from reliving trauma?
CH: When I decided to write “Walk Beside Me,” it was meant to serve as a tool to help others. But, the actual act of writing this story did evoke some deep emotional pain. In order to provide an authentic recounting of my journey, I had to really detach myself from my trauma. Early in the writing process, I realized that if I held back from showing the darkness and unfaltering parts of my journey, then the impact would be far less.
JS: Do you have particular writing rituals or habits to get the creative juices flowing?
CH: I learned great discipline working as a model from a very young age. That work ethic has consistently helped me focus during my writing projects. When I struggle with specific character development, I turn to free association writing. This is a helpful tool to hone in on character development. The art of taking a piece of paper and pen and writing freely about a character is incredibly powerful. I also schedule writing time slots and stick to them. Lastly, if I experience a writing block on a particular day, I close my computer and embark on an activity outdoors. Walking away in those moments tends to foster my creative outlets instead of suffocating them.
JS: What are your future projects after Walk Beside Me?
CH: It has been close to a decade since I set out to be a voice of hope in the breast cancer community. Each day since then, I have juggled several jobs and have dealt with considerable health set backs. I am still a working model, a social media influencer, a novice writer, on the Board of Directors for three non profits, a Nationally recognized Humanitarian, a mentor, a mother, a motivational speaker and now, a movie producer. The next phase of my life will be to slowly step back from some of these roles. But, being an advocate and a voice of hope will always be a top priority.
And now, the director, Ziad Hamzeh.
JS: You described the structure of the film as a “terrifying roller coaster ride”, how did you decide on how you wanted to build your film?
Ziad Hamzeh: I often think of story structure as a dynamic geometric pattern, something that evolves naturally from within as characters face the challenges that confront them. Understanding this pattern allows me to chart the journey we’re about to embark on, creating a mental map that guides the narrative’s pacing and direction. It gives me the flexibility to be spontaneous while ensuring I stay focused on the story’s core trajectory. In “Hello Beautiful,” for example, Willow begins at the pinnacle of her career, with the world at her feet. Then when her diagnosis is revealed, we witness a rapid and alarming descent, which underscores the story’s impact on all the characters in a way that is both dizzying and profound.
JS: How was it like working with the author of the novel, Christine Handy?
ZH: I hold authors in the highest regard, respecting the fact that they are the creators who first bring an idea to life. My role is to honor that creation by doing justice to their work. After reading Walk Beside Me by Christine Handy, I felt compelled to fully commit myself to her story, because it resonated with remarkable pain and honesty. In bringing Christine’s story to life, I internalized her words and approached each event from a place of empathy, seeing the world through her experiences. Christine’s trust in me allowed for a deep connection which enabled me to shape a character who truly embodies the endurance and resilience she portrays. Our six years of collaboration have been incredibly fulfilling, and I am very grateful for the partnership we’ve built.
JS: What were the biggest challenges that you faced in adapting a bestselling novel to screen?
ZH: Telling a story visually that has already been told in another medium is always a challenge. You must keep the original creator’s intentions front and center while deciding which events are essential and which can be set aside in order to craft a clear, compelling narrative that ensures the film’s impact. Christine’s book is rich with struggles and challenges that worked beautifully on the page but didn’t all translate well in the script. We had to sharpen our focus, carefully selecting which elements to highlight. By streamlining the story, we were able to preserve its depth and complexity, ensuring each layer added meaningful dimension to the film.
JS: How do you think the film succeeded in showcasing the facade of suburban and domestic bliss?
ZH: The environment in the film serves as a crucial character in the story. Willow lives in a sheltered world, insulated from many of the daily struggles that other, less privileged neighborhoods endure. These invisible walls of protection are significant, but they are ultimately a façade, destined to crumble under the stresses of her illness. This setting amplifies the impact of the disease, stripping away the illusion of safety in the face of such a profound challenge.
JS: How do you think the main protagonist’s job as a model has helped in adding layers and depth to her struggles?
ZH: Breast cancer, more than any other form of cancer, strikes at the core of a woman’s identity. For Willow, who had spent twenty-five years as a model, her sense of self was deeply intertwined with her physical appearance. Her beauty was not just a part of her—it was her entire world, the foundation upon which she had built her identity. When breast cancer took her breasts, then her hair, and ultimately her looks, it felt as though her entire life had been dismantled. Willow was forced to confront the loss of everything she had relied on, pushing her to reimagine herself and discover what truly matters. This journey led her to redefine her identity, finding strength and purpose in building a life rooted in substance rather than superficiality.
JS: How was the casting process for Willow, the main protagonist, and was Tricia Helfer your first choice?
ZH: Finding the right actor to portray Willow was, without question, the most challenging aspect of the casting process. The role required someone with extraordinary range and depth, capable of embodying a character who undergoes such a profound transformation. We considered many talented actors, but it wasn’t until we met Tricia Helfer that we knew we had found the perfect fit. Tricia wasn’t just a remarkable actor—she also understood the complexities of Willow’s world on a personal level, having experienced the highs and pressures of being a top model herself. This unique insight added an authentic layer to her performance that was invaluable. As we began rehearsals, my admiration for Tricia’s talent only deepened. Her ability to channel Willow’s vulnerability and strength made the character come alive in ways that far exceeded my expectations.
JS: I am impressed by the wonderful Lebanese cast, how did the casting process go and how did you assemble your dream cast?
ZH: We took great care in assembling a cast that would truly elevate the story, treating every character as essential and approaching the casting process with that in mind. We searched extensively for the right actors to bring these roles to life. We reviewed countless auditions and interviewed many always aware that finding the perfect Willow was only the first step. Once Tricia Helfer was cast, the challenge intensified—we needed actors who could match her depth and presence on screen. This led us to look far and wide, both within the country and abroad, to find the right talent. Ultimately, we were fortunate to bring together a remarkable ensemble: Tarek Bishara, Sara Boustany, Awni Abdi-Bahri, Susan Shalhoub Larkin, and Sayed Badreya. Each of these extraordinary actors brought something special to the set, contributing not just their individual performances but also a collective energy that resonated deeply with the story. Their chemistry and commitment ensured that every scene served the narrative, adding layers of meaning and emotion that enhanced the entire film.
JS: Which were the most difficult scenes to shoot?
ZH: Every scene presented a unique set of challenges. The exterior scenes were particularly grueling, as we faced freezing temperatures that forced us to modify our shooting plans to safeguard the health of our actors. We had to make tough decisions, sacrificing certain shots to ensure their well-being, which added pressure to get everything we needed in the limited time we were allowed.
The interior scenes, on the other hand, brought a different kind of intensity. These were deeply emotional moments that demanded everything from our actors and crew. One scene, in particular, stands out—the table scene. It was an incredibly difficult sequence that required us all to calibrate the emotional tone with pinpoint precision. The stakes were high, as we knew this scene was pivotal to the story’s impact.
The entire process was intense, with everyone pushing their limits to capture the raw emotion that the scene required. We spent hours refining each take, ensuring that every detail contributed to the overall effect. In the end, the result was nothing short of spectacular. The scene became one of the most powerful in the film, resonating with an authenticity that could only be achieved through the collective effort and dedication of everyone involved.
In such an intense shoot, how do you as a director ensure the safety of your film set so that your actors would be able to become fully vulnerable while feeling completely safe?
Creating a nurturing environment on set is something I prioritize because it’s essential for everyone involved to feel safe and empowered to deliver their best work. Even before we meet in person, I send a letter to every member of the cast and crew, outlining what they can expect and the kind of atmosphere I strive to create. By the time everyone arrives on set, the tone has already been set.
We kick off with a company meeting, where I reaffirm our collective purpose and the standards of behavior that we all need to uphold. On my set, there’s a strong emphasis on maintaining an atmosphere of quiet focus, kindness, trust, and compassion. Every member of the crew is also responsible for contributing positively to this environment, creating a space where everyone can thrive.
This supportive dynamic is especially crucial for the actors. They can sense the dedication and care the crew puts into their work, and this, in turn, inspires them to be completely open and vulnerable in their performances. The synergy between the crew and the actors fosters a collaborative spirit that elevates the entire production.
On Hello Beautiful, this approach truly paid off. The entire ensemble—from the actors to the crew—worked together seamlessly, creating a film that reflects the care and commitment each person brought to the project. The result was a set where creativity flourished, and the performances were deeply authentic, making the final product something we’re all incredibly proud of.
JS: Was there any consultation with cancer survivors before building Willow’s character to ensure truth and authenticity?
Since Hello Beautiful is based on Christine Handy’s true story as told in Walk Beside Me, I knew from the start that authenticity and honesty were paramount. I immersed myself in Christine’s journey, conducting extensive research and speaking with other cancer survivors to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences. This story demanded truthfulness, and I was committed to ensuring that every aspect of the film reflected that imperative.
One of the key advantages I had on this project was the fact that I wrote the screenplay. I knew all the characters and their dialogue. This gave me an intimate connection with their emotions, allowing me to fully inhabit their lives as I wrote. I made it a point to experience their feelings, to understand where they were coming from on a visceral level. The writing was born out of genuine emotions, directly responding to real experiences, which made the characters feel all the more authentic.
When it came time to work with the actors, I had a comprehensive understanding of what each character was capable of, their limitations, and the depth of their struggles. My primary goal during rehearsals was to ensure that the actors not only understood their characters as deeply as I did but even surpassed that understanding. I worked closely with each actor, guiding them through a meticulous exploration of their roles.
Every moment in the script was dissected and questioned. We asked ourselves: What is the significance of this moment? What drives the character to their next action? These details were not just analyzed but internalized by the actors, allowing them to bring a raw honesty to their performances. Their caliber as actors shone through in the way they embraced their characters’ struggles, adding layers of depth and realism to the roles they played. This collaborative process resulted in performances that were not only authentic but also deeply moving, resonating with the true spirit of the story.
JS: How do you think the difference in cultures (Lebanese and American) has helped enrich the storytelling?
ZH: Several compelling reasons motivated me to incorporate cultural elements into this story. Cultural expectations provide a powerful lens through which we can understand behavior, complexities, and social dynamics. In American films, portrayals of Arab men are unfortunately rare and often limited to stereotypes, such as terrorists. I wanted to challenge this narrow view by presenting an Arab man as a romantic lead—someone who embodies the kindness, decency, and love of family that characterize many Arab men.
Specifically, I chose to highlight Lebanese culture due to the escalating rate of breast cancer in the country, a statistic that remains poorly understood. In Lebanon, breast cancer is often stigmatized, with many patients concealing their diagnosis to preserve their image. In some communities, it is even regarded as a form of “evil.” This cultural context adds layers of complexity to the story, reflecting how deeply ingrained traditions and pride in one’s culture—through language, food, and behavior — can impact individuals facing illness.
The narrative also explores the sense of isolation that cancer patients often feel. For example, an American character who did not learn Arabic, while her children were raised speaking it with their father and grandmother, highlights the emotional distance and insecurities that can arise from cultural and linguistic barriers. This separation echoes the loneliness experienced by those battling breast cancer.
By integrating these cultural elements and tensions, I aimed to enrich the dramatic tapestry of the story, offering a nuanced portrayal that challenges stereotypes and sheds light on the broader human experience.
