Justin Chon is more than just a best friend on 'Twilight Saga New Moon'

November 4, 9:03 AMLA Red Carpet ExaminerPeter Gonzaga

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For Justin Chon, he loves that he's in a movie that has become one the hottest films to hit the movie screens in recent years. Chon has just finished wrapping the filming of the "Twilight" film series. At the  moment, he's not sure if he'll be back for the fourth installment of the Twilight Series.

This reporter along with Pacific Rim Video and Pacific Rim Photo Press was allowed access to Mr. Chon behind the scenes away from the red carpet and in his publicist's office. As we walked into the office, we were greeted with Justin playing or shall I say exercising with a contraption called My Spin Gym. Watching him work his triceps and chest out with the silver object, I jokingly say, "Oh look at that, watch out Taylor Lautner." Chon laughs and exclaims, "No. I'm just looking to tone myself up." So, no bulking more toning for Justin.

     As we get back to talking more about Justin Chon's acting, we talk about various subjects from "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior"  to "Just Jordan" and ultimately the Twilight movie. Originally schooled at USC's business school, Justin couldn't see himself working a 9 to 5 job. Apparently, that brought him to his acting field. He signed up for acting classes and the rest is history. It was a natural progresion for Chon as he started out in a commercial then did quite a bit of extra acting to get his SAG card. 

     For Chon, his breakout role was "Just Jordan." It was a regular gig for him for two years that got him exposure and people started to recognize his talents. Before that, he played the brother of Brenda Song's character in "Wendy W: Homecoming Warrior." 

     The young American of Korean decent finally landed a coveted role in "Twilight" as Eric Yorkie, the best friend of Bella (played by Kristen Stewart). For Chon, it was a great honor to play Yorkie as the role was originally considered a caucasian role. With the backing of then director Catherine Hardwicke, Chon got the role as she pushed for the studios approval for Justin the role. Chon mentioned that Hardwicke was a champion for the ethnic American actors in the film. Many don't realize that Eric Yorkie's character was supposed to be caucasian but Hardwicke looked past the color line. 

     As for being a werewolf  or vampire, Chon doesn't mind his character as only a human being. Chon says, "I'm totally cool with that. I just have to be a high school kid.I don't have to do any of the stunts and be out in the cold as long as they do."

     Chon is grateful as he's glad that the "Twilight" fans has supported the movies and him. He'd love to continue to entertain all of you. 

     Check out his is short film "Turbo" at turbothemovie.com or visit his clothing store The Attic at attic2zoo.com

"Twilight Saga: New Moon" opens November 20 nationwide.

Check out Pacific Rim Photo Press' exclusive photo shoot of Justin Chon by Sthanlee B. Mirador at pacificrimphotopress.com.

Below are clips of the video interview by Pacific Rim Video's Chris Trondsen: