“Expect the unexpected with this series”: Gabby Wong on 1899

1899 is the new binge-worthy German Netflix series that brings sci-fi into a period realm, aboard a ship reminiscent of the Titanic, carrying immigrants to New York in the titular year of 1899. From show creators Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese (whose previous series Dark was highly regarded), it brings together breathtaking visual effects and a groundbreaking number of languages spoken by a truly diverse cast, keeping tensions high with its impenetrable sense of mystery. 

Starring in the show is Hong Kong-born actress Gabby Wong as Yuk Je, ostensibly a servant to a geisha, but, as with many elements of the story, all is not as it first seems. The Upcoming had a brilliant chat with the actress about being a fan of the work of the series’ creators, parallels with the Titanic, the mysterious thriller-esque aspects of the show as well as its multilingualism. We also discussed her career so far, from starting out in theatre to landing a role in Star Wars: Rogue One, forthcoming show Chaos and her thoughts on representation on screen.

Sarah Bradbury

1899 is released on Netflix on 17^th November 2022.

Watch the trailer for 1899 here: