Sigourney Weaver’s heartfelt moment at Venice Film Festival
Reflecting on a legacy of empowerment
During a recent press conference at the Venice Film Festival, Sigourney Weaver shared an emotional moment while discussing the impact of her iconic roles on women’s empowerment. Weaver, who was honored with a Golden Lion for lifetime achievement, became visibly moved when asked about the influence of her character Ripley from the “Alien” series and its potential role in inspiring figures like Kamala Harris.
Weaver expressed her excitement about Harris, saying, “To think for one moment that my work would have anything to do with her rise makes me very happy, actually, because it’s true. I have so many women who come and thank me.” As she choked up, she reached for her water, humorously adding, “Sorry, I need my vodka.”
The journey of women in Hollywood
Weaver’s reflections extended beyond her personal achievements to the broader experience of women in Hollywood. She noted a significant shift in the industry’s portrayal of older women, stating, “Suddenly, I think they had decided somehow that older women could actually play interesting characters and started writing a lot of older women characters. Suddenly, we stopped being a joke and a mother-in-law, and we started to be real people because actually a lot of our audience are real people.”
This shift is not just a trend but a recognition of the diverse and rich experiences that older women bring to the screen. Weaver’s career itself is a testament to this evolution, as she continues to take on roles that challenge stereotypes and showcase the strength and resilience of women.
The essence of strong female characters
When asked about her penchant for portraying strong female characters, Weaver dismissed the notion that it was a deliberate choice. “I’m always asked why I play strong women and I always think that’s such a weird question because I just play women, and women are strong and women don’t give up,” she explained. “You know why? We can’t. We have to do it.”
This perspective underscores a fundamental truth about the representation of women in media: strength is not an exception but a norm. Weaver’s roles have consistently highlighted this, offering audiences a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of women.
A love for Italian cinema
Weaver also expressed her admiration for Italian cinema and her desire to work more in the country. She humorously suggested that alongside the Golden Lion, there should be a “small clause that you get to come to Italy and work with an Italian director, that should be part of the package.”
Her affection for Italian films is personal as well. She shared that her child recently got married, and the first film they watched together was the 1961 comedy-drama Divorce Italian Style, which she described as a “curious choice.”
Embracing diverse genres
Unlike many veterans in the industry, Weaver did not criticize superhero films. Instead, she acknowledged their place in the cinematic landscape, saying, “Marvel is fine and everybody should be doing what they want.” However, she made it clear that her personal preference leans towards Italian cinema. “I haven’t really had enough of what Italian film means and gives us, so get busy Italian filmmakers — I’m available!”
A personal reflection
As a cinema enthusiast, Weaver’s reflections resonate deeply. Her career, marked by iconic roles and a steadfast commitment to authentic representation, offers a blueprint for future generations of actors. Her emotional connection to her work and its impact on society is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of cinema.
For those who appreciate the art of storytelling, Weaver’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of film to inspire, challenge, and reflect the complexities of the human experience. Her call to Italian filmmakers is not just a personal wish but an invitation to explore and celebrate the rich tapestry of global cinema.
In a world where the lines between genres and cultures are increasingly blurred, Weaver’s insights remind us of the importance of diversity and authenticity in storytelling. Whether through the lens of a sci-fi epic or the nuanced narrative of an Italian drama, the stories we tell and the characters we create have the power to shape our world.
For more on Sigourney Weaver’s iconic roles, check out the trailer for Alien and explore the rich world of Italian cinema with Divorce Italian Style.