Imagine two of Hollywood's most captivating stars, Zendaya and Nicole Kidman, settling into "soft orange chairs" for an intimate chat. That's exactly what happened in a recent conversation, where they pulled back the curtain on their craft, revealing the profound dedication, vulnerability, and sheer joy that goes into bringing characters to life. From being a self-proclaimed "Dunie" to wanting to be "the Babygirl," their discussion was a masterclass in the actor's journey.
Becoming a "Dunie" and the Magic of Practical Filmmaking
Zendaya, fresh off the success of *Dune 2*, shared her deep connection to Denis Villeneuve's epic. "I'm a 'Dunie'!" she declared, echoing the sentiment of countless fans. Her admiration for Villeneuve, who grew up with the *Dune* books and even signed his yearbook "Muad'Dib," highlights the passion that fuels such massive projects. What truly resonated was the commitment to practical effects. Shooting in breathtaking locations like Jordan and Abu Dhabi, Zendaya described moments like the Chani and Paul kiss, where the stunning desert landscape was entirely real, not CGI. This dedication to tangible sets and authentic environments fosters a unique on-set community, a "pocket of community" as Zendaya calls it, where bonds are forged amidst the creative process.
The Spontaneity of "Challengers" and the Art of Listening
Shifting gears to *Challengers*, Zendaya revealed how the script, penned by the talented Justin Kuritzkes, first drew her in. She was captivated by the unapologetic female character, Tashi, who "just is who she is." Director Luca Guadagnino proved to be the perfect fit, his nuanced understanding of the characters allowing for an exploratory set. Both Zendaya and Nicole emphasized the paramount importance of listening in acting. "Acting is reacting," Zendaya affirmed, highlighting how true presence allows for honest, spontaneous performances. Nicole recounted how director Halina Reijn on *Babygirl* fostered a similar environment, where scenes could organically shift from a chair to the floor, capturing raw, unscripted moments. The perceived intimacy of a scene, like Zendaya's "far 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 way kiss" in *Challengers*, often belies the intricate choreography and technical precision required, a testament to the actors' ability to blend technique with genuine energy.
Shedding the Skin: The Emotional Toll and Healing
The conversation delved into the emotional demands of intense roles. Zendaya spoke of *Euphoria*'s Rue as a "skin" she slips into, a character that becomes "second nature." While emotionally and physically draining, the profound connection audiences feel makes it "all worth it." Nicole shared her own experiences with *Babygirl* and *Big Little Lies*, where the emotional and physical toll was so severe her body struggled to differentiate reality from fiction. Both actresses discussed their methods for "shedding" characters – from Nicole's spiritual practices (chakras, sage, prayer) to Zendaya's ability to compartmentalize on set, ordering lunch after a heavy crying scene. The presence of family, for Nicole, provides a crucial balance, grounding her in reality after delving into fictional trauma.
The Actor's Journey: Risk, Discovery, and Community
Ultimately, their discussion underscored the shared philosophy of embracing risk and continuous discovery. Nicole, who has worked since age 14, champions the idea of not being "frightened of the splat" – the fear of failure. She sees acting as being a "porous creature," absorbing and transforming experiences. Both agree that the unique bond formed with directors and crew is invaluable. Whether it's Denis Villeneuve's deep passion, Luca Guadagnino's subtle guidance, or Halina Reijn's collaborative spirit, directors are crucial in "discovering you through their lens."
This candid exchange between Zendaya and Nicole Kidman offers a rare glimpse into the minds of two artists at the top of their game. It's a powerful reminder that beyond the glamour, acting is a profound journey of self-discovery, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to storytelling.
© Post by Adama Toulon (with Ai)