Fast & Furious 7, in which you reprise your role as Mia, is out this month! In addition to seeing one of Paul Walker’s last performances, what else can fans expect from the movie?
JB: Plenty of adrenaline and action. This film also has a lot of heart and is very emotional.
On a lighter note, you had a juicy role as the other woman in Home Sweet Hell, which came out in March. What’s the most memorable thing that happened during filming?
JB: I loved, loved shooting in New Orleans. It reminds me so much of Brazil because of the people. Everyone is so happy and welcoming.
American Heist is coming out this summer. What’s the coolest thing about your character, Emily?
JB: Her strength; I always get to play strong women, which is awesome.
You’re also a busy mom! You and your husband [Andrew Form] welcomed Julian via surrogate in September 2013. What was it like to go through the surrogacy process?
JB: A journey. I had preconceived ideas about the process that were totally wrong. I feel so blessed that gestational surrogacy was an option because otherwise I wouldn’t have my son. It was also a beautiful experience in that I got to hold my son in my arms first. I am so grateful to my surrogate.
What inspired you to name him Julian?
JB: My husband blurted it out one day and it seemed perfect. I spent so much time agonizing over the perfect name and then, all of a sudden, it just came to my husband.
How do you stay connected with Julian while filming?
JB: I’m so lucky that my schedule is flexible. For example, I can get my hair and makeup done at home instead of on set, so I can hang with my little man while I get ready. He visits me on set a lot, too. I also try to limit overnight trips to one night. Otherwise, he’s on the road with me.
What’s been the most surprising thing about being a mom so far?
JB: With every milestone Julian hits, every phase he goes through, I always say, ‘OK, this is the best age!’ I think I’m going to say that forever. Every day is better than the last.
What was his first word?
JB: Mama
What’s the coolest thing that you guys have done together lately?
JB: We go to classes every week that are super fun. Music and art are his favorites! I also love going to Will Rogers Park with Julian and my parents. Julian loves nature. We are so lucky we live in LA.
You told Marie Claire back in 2013 that you hoped Julian wouldn’t go into show business. If you had to predict his future career, based on what he loves right now, what would you say?
JB: A contractor. He loves trucks, buses, and buildings.
What do you hope he’ll continue to love as he grows up?
JB: Nature and reading
How will you teach Julian about your Brazilian roots?
JB: Through the food he eats. He loves black beans and feijoada [a traditional stew] and avocado.
You met the other guy in your life on the set of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning in 2005. Does that mean horror flicks are your go-to date night activity with Andrew?
JB: No way! I’ve seen the wizard behind the curtain, so it’s hard to suspend disbelief. These days we go out to dinner on our date nights.
What’s the last thing you two watched on TV together?
JB: We are super into “Bloodline.”
Have you read any great books recently?
JB: Gone Girl
What’s the best meal you’ve had lately?
JB: Cafe Habana‘s chicken and fries
What are your go-to beauty favorites?
JB: Pond’s Rejuveness Cream, Sprout Body Lotion, Charlotte Tilbury mascara and blush, and Armani mascara
How do you beat stress?
JB: I meditate twice a day and I run.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
JB: Hang out with Julian, my sister, and her son
What do you hope to do next?
JB: Have more kids, work, thrive, and enjoy the juggling act!
Photo: Getty
