With a career spanning over a decade, the talent of this renowned actress continues to amaze audiences. Her latest role in "Poor Things" sees her portraying Bella, a young woman brought back to life to explore the world anew. The film, based on the 1992 novel by Alasdair Gray, has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of a character who challenges societal norms and embraces personal freedom.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the actress acknowledged her initial apprehension about not living up to the character's stature. Bella, a creature of her own making, fascinated her with a thirst for life and experiences. She admired Bella's capacity to find joy in life and her readiness to accept the good and challenging aspects of being human.
"Poor Things" marks another successful collaboration between the actress and director Yorgos Lanthimos. This is their third venture together, following "The Favourite" and a short film. Lanthimos, famed for his unique and provocative films, has helmed a maximalist masterpiece that resists categorization. The film is a blend of bildungsroman, erotic melodrama, body-horror-tinged mystery, and an empowering exploration of self-discovery.
One of the film's standout elements is its candid portrayal of sexuality. Bella's journey of self-discovery is closely tied with her sexual experiences, which are represented with unflinching honesty. As a producer on the film, the actress was involved in the crafting of these scenes, ensuring everything was handled professionally and with open communication.
The film's intimate scenes have elicited varied reactions, with some applauding their return to cinema and others criticizing their explicit nature. Both the actress and Lanthimos assert that Bella's uninhibited exploration of her sexuality is an integral part of her character. They challenge societal double standards around violence and sexuality, advocating for a more open-minded approach like that found in European cinema.
The collaboration on "Poor Things" has fostered trust and reliance between the actress and Lanthimos. Despite their differing backgrounds and approaches, they share a deep understanding and appreciation for each other's work. The actress describes their teamwork as something beyond her imagination, with Lanthimos even teaching her film developing techniques.
As the film industry evolves, narratives like "Poor Things" strike a chord with audiences seeking original and thought-provoking content. The film's exploration of female autonomy and sexuality feels pertinent in a time when women's rights are under scrutiny. She believes that the relevance of a story should not be determined by current events but by its inherent truth and impact.
The performance in "Poor Things" highlights her fearlessness as an actress and her ability to breathe life into complex characters. The film stands as a testament to the power of creative collaboration. With its provocative themes and unabashed portrayal of sexuality, "Poor Things" challenges societal norms and offers audiences a unique and captivating viewing experience.