Born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Adrian Voo is an actor and entrepreneur living in Los Angeles.
On the film front, Voo co-star’s in upcoming comedy “Amateur Night” opposite Jason Biggs (“American Pie”), Janet Montgomery (“Salem,” “Black Swan”) and Ashley Tisdale (“High School Musical”). The film is based on a true story of an out-of-work father who accepts a job driving call girls out of desperation. “Amateur Night” is scheduled to hit theaters in United States on August 12. An international release will follow later in the year.
Voo will also appear in teen comedy, “Little Bitches,” produced by Scott Aversano (“That Awkward Moment,” “The Last Airbender”) and stars Jennette McCurdy (“Sam & Cat”), Kiersey Clemons (“Dope,” “Neighbors 2”) and Virginia Gardner (“Project Almanac”). The premise of the film is three friends navigating their final day of high school. The film is scheduled to be out at the end of the year.
Aside from acting, Voo is co-owner of new restaurant and bar “Butterscotch” on La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles. Butterscotch features a menu by Michelin-chef Claudio Dell’Anno and houses a lounge bar upstairs called “Butter’d Up,” which has become a popular performance lounge for musicians and for celebrity sightings.
How do you find the film industry?
The film industry is challenging. But a challenge I do enjoy.
What led you to your current career?
I’ve always been inspired by movies and entertainers. Entertainment was a field I knew I would work in ever since I could walk. For me, its the impact entertainment can make in the world – to change views, to motivate, to represent.
Could you walk us through your process of starting out as an actor?
When I decided to pursue acting, I learned very quickly how tough the competition is and how prepared others with the same goals were. Education was the only choice. I attended New York Film Academy where I studied the Meisner acting technique predominantly. I also trained in other acting techniques and in improv outside of the program.
Did you encounter any particular difficulties in the beginning?
A quote that comes to my mind immediately is, “No human being is capable of knowing absolute truth.” Challenges will arise at every stage.
What is your long term plan?
I like to plan short term, executable, goals. I’m more likely to achieve them that way. But with acting, I want to be apart of films that I can be both known for and be proud of; And I have a few people I hope to work with.
Could you share with us some industry insights?
The industry will continuously find new ways to tell you “no,” but believe that the right person will tell you “yes.” But a tip for newcomers, things are never as they seem in Hollywood.
Tell us about Butterscotch, what led you to that?
Butterscotch / Butter’d Up is definitely a different venture for me. It was an opportunity that came about at the right time. My partners have done a remarkable job previously and thus far. We opened the bar in May and the feedback has been very positive. The restaurant is just now going into renovation. We’re really hoping to make Butterscotch a real destination so if you’re in L.A. in the fall, we look forward to sharing it with you.
What can we expect from you in the future?
Hopefully you’ll find me in major blockbusters… For now, make sure you catch my upcoming films “Amateur Night” and “Little Bitches.”
What are some important lessons you’ve learnt about entrepreneurship/business? Any tips for others?
Trust your instincts. Some decisions you make will be right and others will be lessons; hopefully the right decisions will outweigh the lessons you learn along the way.
And, pick up a book called “The Autobiography of a Yogi.”
Connect
Follow Adrian Voo on Twitter @adrianvoo and Instagram @adrian.voo
Butterscotch is located at 143 N La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles. To learn more, visit www.butterscotchrestaurant.com
