IN CONVERSATION WITH ELNAAZ NOROUZI

interview by JANA LETONJA

Elnaaz Norouzi is one of the most exciting rising stars working across international cinema today. Following acclaimed performances in both Bollywood and Hollywood, she continues her global ascent with The Fix, the upcoming action thriller directed by Guy Moshe, where she stars alongside Liam Neeson and Zachary Levi. Set for release on 11th September, the film follows a group of former CIA operatives on a dangerous rescue mission in Tehran, with Elnaaz delivering a nuanced, emotionally charged performance at its heart. She brings a rare combination of resilience, cultural perspective, and screen presence—positioning her as a defining voice of a new generation of global talent.

all photography by ABHEET GIDWANI

The Fix is a high-stakes action thriller, but at its core it’s also deeply emotional. What drew you to this role?

The biggest thing that drew me to this role was the challenge. It pushed me completely out of my comfort zone and asked me to explore a character unlike anyone I'd played before. As an actor, that's exactly what you're looking for. I never want to feel too comfortable as an actor because that's usually when you stop growing. This character asked me to step into a world that was completely unfamiliar to me, both emotionally and psychologically, and that excited me.

Of course, being part of a Hollywood film alongside actors I admire, like Liam Neeson and Zachary Levi, made it even more exciting. But what really stayed with me was the complexity of the character. She has so many layers, and I can't say too much without giving away the story, but this role definitely challenged me. Those are the roles I love because they demand everything from you.

You worked alongside Liam Neeson and Zachary Levi what did you learn from working alongside such established actors?

One of the biggest lessons was watching how calm and focused they are, no matter how demanding the day is. A film like The Fix is physically and emotionally intense, and there's a real professionalism that comes with experience.

They never waste energy. Everything they do serves the scene. Watching actors of that calibre reminded me that great performances aren't about doing more, they're about doing exactly what's needed. That was incredibly inspiring to witness firsthand.

How did you prepare for a character navigating both intense action and emotional complexity?

I started with one question, "Why?" Why does this character make the choices she makes? Why does she believe in what she believes in? Once I understand that, everything else starts falling into place.

For this role, I spent a lot of time researching the world she comes from, reading, speaking to people, and trying to understand her mindset rather than just memorising scenes. I can't reveal too much because there are so many layers to the story, but I loved disappearing into that process. That's one of my favourite parts of acting. You spend weeks or months living inside someone else's mind, and in doing so, you often learn something about yourself too.

Your career has seamlessly crossed Bollywood and Hollywood. Do you approach projects differently depending on where they’re made?

Absolutely. Every industry has its own rhythm, culture and creative process. The language changes, the filmmaking style changes, even the pace on set can be very different.

As an actor, I think adaptability is one of your greatest strengths. You can't approach every project the same way. My job is to understand the world I'm stepping into and serve that story as truthfully as possible. I enjoy that challenge because every country teaches me something new.

Having grown up between cultures, how has your personal journey shaped the stories you’re drawn to tell?

Growing up between different cultures has probably been my greatest education. I was born in Iran, raised in Germany, built my career in India and have always dreamed of working internationally. Every place has shaped me in a different way. I've never really felt like I belonged to just one place, and over time, I've realised that's actually one of my greatest strengths. Every country I've lived in has given me a different perspective, and together they've shaped who I am, both as a person and as an actor.

Travel teaches you humility. Different cultures teach you empathy. You begin to understand that every person carries a story you know nothing about. That's something I try to bring into every character I play. I don't judge them, I try to understand them.

I think that's also why I'm so excited to work across different industries and languages. Every story is another opportunity to see the world through someone else's eyes.

Representation in global cinema is evolving. Do you feel a responsibility to challenge stereotypes through the roles you choose?

I think my responsibility is first and foremost to serve the story honestly. My job isn't to judge a character or make them fit into a particular narrative. My job is to understand them as deeply as I can and portray them truthfully.

Of course, representation matters. The more diverse the stories we tell, the richer cinema becomes. But I don't choose roles because I want to make a statement. I choose them because they challenge me and because I believe in the story. Ironically, I think that's often how meaningful change happens, not by trying to deliver a message, but by telling honest human stories that allow audiences to see the world through someone else's eyes.

Looking back, was there a defining moment when you realised acting was more than just a dream?

Yes. Ironically, it was when I realised just how difficult this profession really is. Breaking into any film industry is incredibly challenging, especially Bollywood or even Hollywood. There are moments of rejection, uncertainty and waiting. But through all of that, I never once questioned whether I wanted to keep going. That's when I realised acting wasn't just a dream, it’s everything I’ve ever wanted. 

Is there a role or genre you’ve yet to explore that feels particularly exciting to you?

I've always wanted to lead a proper action thriller. That's actually one of the reasons I started training in mixed martial arts. I wanted to be physically prepared if that opportunity ever came. I'd also love to explore psychological thrillers and horror. Those genres challenge actors in such unique ways because so much depends on atmosphere, tension and emotion rather than dialogue alone.

How do you stay grounded while navigating an increasingly international career?

I think my family plays a huge role in that. They've always reminded me where I come from, and that's something I never want to lose sight of. At the end of the day, no matter how exciting your career becomes, you're still the same person. I think gratitude keeps you grounded. Every opportunity I've had is something I once dreamed about, so I never want to take any of it for granted.

Fashion and film often go hand in hand. How would you describe your personal style, and how has it evolved over the years?

Fashion has always fascinated me because it's another way of expressing who you are without saying a word. As someone who has lived between different cultures, I've naturally been influenced by different aesthetics, and I love bringing those influences together in my own way.

My style has evolved. Today I'm much less interested in following trends and much more interested in wearing pieces that feel timeless, confident, and effortless. I want to feel like myself rather than someone else's idea of what's fashionable.

At the end of the day, confidence is the most beautiful thing anyone can wear. Fashion should never overpower your personality, it should simply help you express it.

What excites you most about where your career is heading over the next few years?

The possibilities. I genuinely feel like I'm only scratching the surface of what I want to create. I have the opportunity to work across Bollywood and Hollywood, while also continuing to grow my music and live performance career. Very few artists get to explore so many different forms of storytelling.

More than anything, I'm excited about collaborating with extraordinary filmmakers, actors, musicians, and creatives from around the world. That's the beauty of being an artist, you never stop learning, and every project has the potential to change you. I feel like I'm just getting started.