Christopher Chung, previously known for his role as the obnoxious Roddy Ho in Apple TV+'s "Slow Horses," is stepping into a decidedly different persona as the heartthrob Harry Beecham in Netflix's new period drama, "My Brilliant Career." Based on Miles Franklin's 1901 novel, the series follows the spirited Sybylla Melvyn as she navigates societal expectations and romantic entanglements.
Chung expressed his excitement about showcasing a more charming side of his acting abilities. "I think people are so used to seeing me as being an obnoxious prick in Slow Horses. So it’s nice to be a bit more charming," he said in a recent interview.
In "My Brilliant Career," Sybylla, played by Philippa Northeast, is sent to live with her wealthy grandmother and aunt, with the intention of finding a suitable husband. She soon encounters two potential suitors: Frank Hawden, an Englishman working on her grandmother's ranch, and Harry Beecham. While Mrs. Bossier favors Frank, Sybylla develops feelings for the earnest Harry after spending time at his family's estate.
Chung identified a key moment in the second episode where Harry's interest in Sybylla intensifies. "I think the moment where he first really takes her in is when he drops his apples and he sees her in the tree," he recalled. "There’s a really lovely moment of energy and connection there when he’s untangling her hair. He’s like, ‘Oh, there’s something about this girl and I don’t know what it is.’"
Another pivotal scene involves Sybylla and Harry bonding over cracking a bullwhip. Chung shared that learning to use the whip was one of the first preparations he undertook for the role. "It’s all in the wrist. There’s nothing about power. It’s just how well you can use your wrist to flick it out to crack the air," he explained. "When you get it, the satisfaction that you get when you crack a whip nicely and it makes that proper earth-shattering sound that goes out against the landscape is just wonderful."
Despite the evident chemistry between Sybylla and Harry, their relationship faces complications, notably Harry's existing engagement to Blanche. Chung described Harry as being caught between love and honor, attempting to navigate his promise to Blanche while developing feelings for Sybylla. "It’s the honorable thing to continue to keep this promise to Blanche, but also knowing that it’s beneficial to him and his family and his state in the world and his finances," Chung said.
Scenes like the barn dance and a competitive race between Sybylla and Harry are highlighted for their charm and the underlying romantic tension. Chung noted that the barn dance scene, filmed later in the production, was a fun but chaotic experience that ultimately exceeded expectations.
Chung also discussed the significance of Harry giving Sybylla a copy of "Moby Dick" as a parting gift, a book with deep personal meaning to him. He explained that this gesture was Harry's way of showing Sybylla how much he cared, as the book was a treasured item inherited from his father.
When Harry later expresses feeling "worthless" after losing his estate, Chung attributed this to his father's teachings about honor and societal expectations for men to provide. This belief prevented him from marrying Sybylla until he could regain his standing.
During his time apart from Sybylla, Chung said Harry viewed her comb as his driving force, a constant reminder of why he was enduring the hardship and a symbol of his determination to win her back.
"My Brilliant Career" is now streaming on Netflix.