Brandon Soo Hoo, an incredibly talented actor with a deep love for storytelling, has been captivating audiences since his early years. He finds immense pleasure in the art of acting, as it allows him to bring a wide range of characters to life on the screen. Brandon finds immense joy and fulfillment in the freedom and creativity that acting provides, whether it’s portraying a ninja or embodying various animals. Brandon’s background in martial arts lends a distinctive perspective to his craft, as he draws connections between the self-focused nature of martial arts training and the introspection necessary for animation voiceover work.

“The distinction between working on live-action projects and animation lies in the need to exercise your imagination to an even greater extent,” Soo Hoo explained.

Brandon highlights the significance of imagination as a crucial element that distinguishes animation from live-action acting in the realm of animation. Immersed in the solitude of a recording booth, he explores the scenes with a profound focus, relying on his vivid imagination rather than external distractions. The process enables him to breathe life into animated characters, infusing them with authenticity and depth, thereby showcasing the immense power of imagination in storytelling. Brandon’s commitment to his craft is evident in his ability to imbue his characters with personality and emotion, even when there are no physical co-stars or sets present.

“As a content creator, there are so many dimensions of myself I get to explore outside of being an actor. It’s an amalgamation of all the things that I’m interested in,” Soo Hoo stated.

Brandon is not only an actor but also a content creator, where he displays his wide range of interests and talents. His content showcases a diverse array of creative expressions, spanning from martial arts to cooking, comedy skits to action sequences. Brandon’s content provides insights into his personal preferences and experiences, creating a captivating entertainment experience for his audience. The author’s content creation journey is a means of self-expression and exploration, enabling them to share their passions with a larger audience.

“I think that what landed me in the role of Tom was that I really understood him. I could easily step into his shoes and bring my own level of humor and personal excentricities to the character,” Soo Hoo stated.

Brandon’s project “The Tiger’s Apprentice” explores various themes, including Asian representation, family dynamics, and personal growth. Tom’s character, situated in San Francisco’s Chinatown, reflects Brandon’s personal experiences and challenges, lending an air of authenticity to his portrayal. Brandon’s portrayal in this role beautifully captures the intricacies of cultural identity, emphasizing the significance of embracing one’s heritage and drawing strength from the support of the community. “The Tiger’s Apprentice” is not just entertaining, but it also conveys powerful messages about family, resilience, and the importance of compassion in overcoming challenges.

“Food has always been a central part of my family. That’s how we would celebrate. It’s how my parents would express love to me,” Soo Hoo expressed.

Brandon has expanded his interests beyond entertainment and has opened a restaurant in Cambodia, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. According to him, it all started when he decided to make a burger for his friend, who was getting married in Cambodia. Brandon, an American living in Cambodia, saw it as the perfect gift to evoke memories of home. Surprisingly, Brandon’s friend recognized the potential in his passion for food and his unfamiliarity with the community.

“It took us a little over five months to get the business up and running,” Soo Hoo stated, reflecting on the process from ideation to opening.

The fusion of his passion for food and his cultural heritage results in a harmonious blend of flavors and traditions. Food holds a special place in Brandon’s heart, serving as more than just a source of nourishment. It acts as a powerful tool for forging connections, preserving cherished memories, and commemorating joyous occasions. His culinary ventures are a testament to his family’s culinary legacy, as he spreads his love for cooking to a wider audience.

Community, culture, family, and food deeply shape Brandon’s identity and creative expression. He skillfully balances the intricacies of his cultural heritage while embracing the best of both worlds as a fourth-generation Chinese-American. His dedication to community involvement and cultural appreciation highlights his belief in supporting and empowering others. Brandon’s acting, content creation, and culinary pursuits come together to create a captivating and diverse representation of his life, inviting audiences to delve into the various aspects of his creative endeavors.

Photography Credit: Ian Spanier