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Zoe Saldana reflects on the journey from ‘Pirates’ to Spielberg’s embrace
Hollywood luminary shares her transformative experiences
Zoe Saldana, known for her stellar performances in blockbuster franchises, has collaborated with some of the most iconic directors in the film industry, including James Cameron and J.J. Abrams. However, it was Steven Spielberg who played a pivotal role in renewing her faith in Hollywood.
The rocky seas of ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’
After making a splash in 2003’s “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl”, Saldana’s experiences on set were far from the glamorous tales we often associate with major Hollywood productions. Speaking candidly at a recent Screen Talk event at the BFI London Film Festival, she admitted that the filming process almost made her ”tip overboard.”
“I knew with that experience the kind of people that I wanted to work with,” Saldana recalled. “The crew and cast are marvelous 99% of the time. But when studios and directors lack kindness, awareness, and consideration, large-scale productions can turn into nightmarish experiences.”
This introspective reflection highlighted the importance of a compassionate and understanding leadership in filmmaking, something she found lacking during her ’Pirates’ stint. The emotional toll it took was significant enough that even years later, during a 2022 interview, Saldana revealed how lost she felt throughout that production. The experience was so harrowing that producer Jerry Bruckheimer eventually offered a personal apology to her.
Spielberg’s redemptive touch in ‘The Terminal’
Fortunately, destiny had other plans. Shortly after her ‘Pirates’ ordeal, Saldana joined the cast of Steven Spielberg’s “The Terminal”, starring alongside Tom Hanks and Catherine Zeta-Jones. This opportunity became a defining moment in her career. “I worked with Steven Spielberg eight months later, and he restored my faith that big can also be great,” Saldana expressed warmly.
On Spielberg’s set, Saldana found a sense of belonging and security that contrasted starkly with her previous experience. Spielberg’s unique approach of playing music between scenes, ensuring everyone was synchronized and connected, left a lasting impression on her. It was here that Saldana discovered the work of Nino Rota, an Italian composer renowned for his collaborations with Federico Fellini. Spielberg once told her: “In order for you to know where you are, you have to know where you came from,” a piece of wisdom she cherishes to this day.
Venturing into new territories with ‘Emilia Pérez’
Currently, Saldana is in the spotlight for her upcoming film, “Emilia Pérez”. Directed by Jacques Audiard, this musical crime comedy is carving its niche with a distinctive storyline. The plot centers around Emilia (played by Karla Sofía Gascón), a drug cartel leader seeking to fake her death and undergo gender-affirming surgery. Saldana’s character, Rita, plays a crucial role in this transformation. The film also stars Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, Mark Ivanir, and Édgar Ramírez, and was chosen by France as its submission for the international feature Oscar. It premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May, with Saldana and her co-stars being honored with the best actress award.
During her Cannes interview, Saldana spoke about the challenges and excitement surrounding the musical elements of the film, which features original songs by Camille and several intricate dance numbers.
“I went through all my stages of paranoia — I was delirious, then doubtful, and then I felt a breakthrough,” Saldana shared.
Despite the unconventional nature of “Emilia Pérez,” Saldana emphasized its importance. “Stories like this are crucial. My only hope is that it’s received with openness of heart and mind,” she stated.
Continuing to inspire
Zoe Saldana’s journey is a testament to resilience and the quest for better experiences in one’s professional life. From overcoming challenging moments to embracing roles that push her boundaries, she continues to inspire both her fans and peers. With “Emilia Pérez” set to release on Netflix on November 13, her fans eagerly await to see her once again on screen, bringing complex characters to life with her exceptional talent.
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