Fifteen-year-old China Anne McClain stands out as a true triple threat. She sings with warmth, dances with precision, and acts with a clarity many seasoned performers would envy. This summer she has been sharing the stage with her sisters in the pop group McClain, turning heads with each performance. Yet she also steps away from the touring schedule to focus on a new project, the Family Channel premiere of How To Build A Better Boy, a film that places her front and center and reveals a different facet of her talent.
In the film, China plays Gabby Harrison, a razor sharp computer whiz who will have fans cheering from the first scene. The project hits a special note for Canadian viewers because it was shot here, giving local audiences a chance to spot familiar streets and landscapes on screen. The energy on set was bright, and McClain is thrilled for audiences to meet Gabby and see how her world connects with Mae and the rest of the team.
An interview with McClain highlighted the thrill of stepping into Gabby’s shoes. She explained what drew her to the character and recalled Niagara Falls becoming part of the filming itinerary, a memory that still brings a smile when she thinks back to it.
Viewers should expect a lively, action packed experience that feels fresh and accessible to families. The film blends fast sequences with humor and heart, keeping the spotlight on Gabby and Mae’s friendship while weaving in clever tech moments and light romance that never overshadows the main story.
Gabby is portrayed as fiercely independent, devoted to her best friend Mae, and convinced that together they can conquer the world. From the first pages of the script, McClain felt drawn to that strength—the refusal to wait for permission and the determination to use her mind to solve problems. Bringing that energy to life became one of the most rewarding aspects of the project for her.
Fans will notice contrasts between Gabby and McClain. The actress admits she is not as tech savvy as Gabby and tends toward a more muted style, while Gabby favors bold pinks and purples. Yet their core links are clear: both are independent and focused on growing their careers before chasing romance, and both share a forward look on relationships.
When asked about a dream partner, McClain offered a thoughtful answer. The imagined guy would be funny, honest, and kind to everyone, with a deep respect for family and friends. As for looks, she joked that he would resemble an early N Sync era star—a playful nod that fans will recognize and enjoy.
Filming in Canada turned out to be an upbeat, rewarding experience. The locals were friendly, the crew professional, and the variety of locations gave the production a fresh sense of adventure that seeped into the performance on screen. The difference from Los Angeles was noticeable, and McClain cherished every moment of exploring the cities, shops, and eateries near their shooting bases.
One standout moment was a Niagara Falls day with the entire cast, a big party bus ride that had everyone loud and laughing. The energy was infectious, and the chance to see the falls up close added a memorable texture to the shoot. Those sessions created memories the team carries with them long after the cameras stop rolling.
Yes, there was a boat ride that skimmed right beside the falls. The moment delivered a perfect mix of thrill and humor. McClain tucked a plastic hoodie around her head, joked about staying dry, and then a sudden blast of water reminded her that filming life rarely follows the plan. It became a funny, unforgettable moment from the trip.
That experience shines through in the film, and the whole journey helps explain why McClain feels so connected to Gabby. The movie’s energy—its clever tech moments, its warmth, and its punch of action—helps make How To Build A Better Boy a story that resonates with audiences who want a smart, entertaining movie for the whole family.
Make sure to tune into Family Channel at 8:00PM on August 15th to catch China as Gabby in How To Build A Better Boy.