French Finesse

If you are one of the many, many people who has seen Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and Avengers: Infinity War, than you would recognise our cover star, Pom Klementieff with dark locks and antennas poking out of each side of her forehead and deep, dilated pupils. In real life, this gorgeous fashion darling of FrenchKorean parentage is the epitome of the French word chic, with blonde bleached hair and a killer sense of style. Here, the French actress talks about her role as the awkward superhero in the Marvel universe, her support for the #TimesUp movement, and the real superheroes of today who have inspired her by making a real difference to the world we live in

- Azza Arif

Pom Klementieff arrives at the studio in West Hollywood, Los Angeles bare-faced, in a light grey t-shirt, and a cup of iced latte. “What will I be wearing today?” asks the 32-year-old actress with a smile, as her big brown eyes scan the rows of designer clothes hung on racks in the dressing room. She pulls out an army green Fendi top and padded skirt and holds them against her body and looks into the full length mirror; I could tell she was already picturing herself in them. A rising fashion darling, Pom has a striking appearance that will look good in just about any outfit.

The daughter of a diplomat father, Klementieff grew up globe-trotting the world, before settling in France. “I lived in France until about six years ago when I moved to LA,” she confides. “I have been in the business for about 12 years, starting when I took theatre classes in France. When I came to Los Angeles a few years ago, I fell in love with the city. I felt like anything was possible and loved that I didn’t know anyone and had so much to discover.” Life in the City of Angels was not easy for the 32-year-old actress; she could barely speak English when she first moved there, and it took her a long time to book acting jobs. “There were many ups and down before I booked the role of Mantis!”

“I love playing Mantis because she’s unique, yet also awkward, and she gets to be funny in her own way. She is such a fun character to play and there is so much to explore with her, and she doesn’t even know how strong she is. For any future movies, if I get the chance, I would want to discover more of her powers!”