If you’ve recently watched “A Family Affair” on Netflix, you might find yourself wondering why Eugenie, Zara’s vivacious best friend, seems so familiar. The character, played by Liza Koshy, brings a refreshing energy to the film, and her presence is both memorable and impactful. But why does she seem so recognizable?
Liza Koshy, who portrays Eugenie, is not just an actress but also a well-known YouTube star. She first gained fame through her comedic sketches and vlogs on YouTube, where she amassed millions of followers. Her unique brand of humor and relatable content quickly made her a household name among younger audiences. This background in digital content creation has given Koshy a distinctive style that translates well to her role in “A Family Affair.”
In the film, Eugenie is Zara’s (Joey King) best friend and confidante. Zara, a 24-year-old personal assistant, is struggling to find her footing in both her professional and personal life. Her job as an assistant to the demanding movie star Chris Cole (Zac Efron) hasn’t led to the career advancement she hoped for, and living with her mother, Brooke (Nicole Kidman), isn’t helping her grow into an independent adult. The situation becomes even more complicated when Zara discovers her boss and her mother in bed together.
Eugenie, played by Koshy, is a breath of fresh air in Zara’s tumultuous life. She’s vivacious, no-holds-barred, and always ready to support her best friend while also keeping her grounded. This dynamic is crucial to the film’s narrative, as it provides Zara with a much-needed anchor amidst the chaos.
Koshy’s portrayal of Eugenie is both endearing and relatable. Her comedic timing and genuine chemistry with Joey King make their on-screen friendship believable and enjoyable to watch. In one memorable scene, Eugenie gifts Zara a star pin that reads “Bad Bitch,” a heartfelt moment that encapsulates their supportive yet honest relationship. This authenticity is a testament to Koshy’s acting skills and her ability to bring depth to her character.
The film’s screenwriter, Carrie Solomon, was keen on highlighting the importance of friendships in a young woman’s life. Solomon, who was Zara’s age when she first conceived the idea for “A Family Affair,” wanted to create a story that didn’t revolve around a romantic pursuit. Instead, she focused on Zara’s career and personal growth, with Eugenie playing a pivotal role in that journey.
Solomon’s approach to writing Zara’s character was to show the painful yet necessary process of self-discovery. Zara is endearing but flawed, often getting caught up in her own problems without seeing the bigger picture. Eugenie serves as a mirror, reflecting Zara’s shortcomings while also encouraging her to grow. This dynamic is something many viewers can relate to, making their friendship one of the film’s highlights.
On set, Koshy and King formed an instant bond, which translated seamlessly to their on-screen performances. Koshy recalls their first day of shooting, where they had to take best friend photos that would appear in frames by Zara’s nightstand. The playful and spontaneous nature of their interactions set the tone for their characters’ relationship throughout the film.
At 24 and 28, both King and Koshy could easily relate to the challenges their characters face. Koshy even joked about the need for a “doula for kids in their 20s rebirthing into their identities post-college,” highlighting the film’s emphasis on the ongoing process of self-discovery at different life stages.
The film also explores the theme of finding oneself over and over again, as seen through the characters of Brooke and Zara’s grandmother, played by Kathy Bates. Each woman in the film has her own moments of introspection and growth, adding layers to the narrative. For Zara, part of her growth involves recognizing that her mother is also going through her own journey of self-discovery.
Both King and Koshy hope that “A Family Affair” will spark real conversations among viewers. The film’s portrayal of a young woman navigating her professional and personal life, while also dealing with her mother’s unexpected romance, is both humorous and thought-provoking. Koshy, in particular, emphasizes the importance of seeing one’s mother as a whole person, not just a parental figure.
In conclusion, Liza Koshy’s role as Eugenie in “A Family Affair” is a standout performance that adds depth and humor to the film. Her background as a YouTube star brings a unique energy to the character, making Eugenie both recognizable and relatable. The film’s focus on friendships, personal growth, and the complexities of family dynamics makes it a must-watch, and Koshy’s portrayal of Eugenie is a significant part of its charm.
Source: Tudum, PureWow
