Gemma Chan says emotional connection to Josephine was like a 'small miracle'

Chan says Josephine's story hit a 'raw nerve' for her, not just as an artist but as someone who’s experienced trauma

Gemma Chan says her emotional connection to the psychological drama Josephine went far beyond typical acting work, describing the very making of the film as a “small miracle” that deeply resonated with her.

The British actress, who stars as Claire in the film, told Variety that the story hit a “raw nerve” for her, not just as an artist but as someone who’s experienced trauma and the complex aftermath of real‑world violence. Chan says she was drawn to the script because it felt truthful and profound, and that signing on to the project was immediate once writer‑director Beth de Araújo shared it with her years ago.

Josephine centers on a family’s struggle after their young daughter witnesses a brutal assault, forcing her parents to confront the limits of their ability to protect her. The film, which premiered to strong reactions and major awards at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, also stars Channing Tatum and newcomer Mason Reeves.

Chan revealed that her own experience witnessing violence in her youth made the story especially meaningful, saying that de Araújo’s script brought authenticity and truth to a subject that is difficult to portray without feeling exploitative. She credited the supportive environment on set with allowing her to bring emotional vulnerability to her performance.

Filming was delayed by the COVID‑19 pandemic, but once production finally began in 2024, Chan and her fellow actors, including Tatum, who has spoken openly about being emotionally moved by the film, worked together to ground the story in intimate realism.

Now making its international premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival, Josephine is generating awards buzz and anticipation ahead of wider release, with Chan hopeful that the film will spark broader conversations about trauma, resilience and how families navigate unthinkable pain.