Fri Sep 13 20:48:29 UTC 2024: ## “Uglies” Movie Finally Hits Netflix After Years of Silence

**Los Angeles, CA -** After a 17-year journey from book to screen, the long-awaited adaptation of Scott Westerfeld’s dystopian young adult novel “Uglies” is finally making its debut on Netflix on September 13th. Actress Brianne Tju, who plays Tally’s classmate Shay, shared her excitement and reflections on the film’s themes of beauty and self-acceptance.

Tju, who has become known for her roles in thriller and horror projects like “Light as a Feather” and “I Know What You Did Last Summer”, was a young reader of the book and initially thought the film would never see the light of day. “We thought the movie was never going to be released,” she admits. “It feels really good, and I’m just trying to enjoy it.”

“Uglies” follows Tally Youngblood, a teenager living in a society where everyone undergoes mandatory surgery to achieve a standardized “perfect” appearance at the age of 16. Tju discussed the film’s timely messaging about beauty standards and how her own journey with self-acceptance mirrors Tally’s.

“It’s so crazy that that’s the theme and messaging in a book meant for young adults and how timely it is now, probably more than ever with social media and technology,” she explained. “It’s a coming-of-age story and it takes place in a dystopian future, but the messaging is pretty universal and timeless.”

Tju also delved into the challenges of transforming into the “Pretty” version of her character Shay, which involved extensive makeup, hair styling, and even prosthetic body parts. She described the process as “very degrading” in a way, prompting her to question the societal pressures surrounding beauty standards.

“It really dawned on me right then and there, all this effort and all this time expended in order to achieve something that, at the end of the day, you wash off, and you go to bed as you woke up,” she revealed.

Tju ultimately found the experience transformative, prompting her to critically evaluate the industry she works in and her own relationship with self-image. She emphasized the importance of embracing all aspects of oneself and recognizing the value of inner strength and individuality.

The actress is hopeful for the reception of the film, expressing a desire to explore the world of “Uglies” further in a potential sequel. “I would love to keep exploring these characters that we’ve all worked so hard to create,” she said.

“Uglies” is set to premiere on Netflix on September 13th, promising a visually captivating and thought-provoking experience for viewers.

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