Valeria Bruni Tedeschi on ‘In Attachment’ and the Evolution of Female Roles in Cinema
In the critically acclaimed film ‘In Attachment’ (‘L’Attachement’ in French), Valeria Bruni Tedeschi delivers a tour-de-force performance as Sandra, a vivacious and independent woman who becomes embroiled in the lives of a family reeling from a sudden loss.
In a recent interview with Le Figaro, Bruni Tedeschi unveils the behind-the-scenes challenges and her thoughts on the representation of women in cinema in the #MeToo era.
Breaking Out of Comfort Zones and the Essence of Artistic Collaboration
Despite the allure of playing a character that initially seemed a departure from her usual repertoire, Bruni Tedeschi faced some initial difficulties.
"On the first few days of filming, I tended to rely on my usual comedic instincts," she explains. "But Carine (Tardieu, the director) kept pushing me to stay within the boundaries of the character and the story."
The realization that Tardieu had cast her specifically for her ability to embody restraint and contain her naturally exuberant persona proved to be a catalyst for Bruni Tedeschi’s growth as an actress.
"I understood the meaning of our work that day," she says. "It’s not just about expressing oneself, but also about listening, understanding, and serving the vision of the director."
The Transformation of Female Characters in the #MeToo Era
The interview also delves into the ongoing evolution of female characters in cinema, particularly in light of the #MeToo movement. Bruni Tedeschi acknowledges the progress that has been made in recent years.
"We are at a point where there are more and more complex and multifaceted female characters being written," she says. "Women are no longer just defined by their relationships with men or their physical appearance."
However, Bruni Tedeschi cautions that there is still room for improvement.
"We need to keep challenging stereotypes and exploring the full range of human experiences that women have," she emphasizes. "We need to create characters that are both relatable and aspirational, that show the strength and resilience of women."
Art as a Tool for Empowerment
Bruni Tedeschi believes that cinema has a vital role to play in fostering gender equality and advancing the cause of feminism.
"Film can be a powerful tool for raising awareness, changing perspectives, and inspiring change," she says. "By showcasing diverse female characters and exploring their experiences, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world."
‘In Attachment’ exemplifies this transformative power. Through Sandra’s journey, the film illuminates the complexities of grief, female friendship, and the search for meaning in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
Valeria Bruni Tedeschi’s performance in ‘In Attachment’ is a testament to her exceptional talent and her unwavering commitment to using her artistry as a force for good. Through her collaboration with Carine Tardieu and her thoughtful reflections on the evolving portrayal of women in cinema, she continues to inspire audiences and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about gender equality.
