Two-time Oscar winner, Cate Blanchett, discusses her unexpected path to screen acting, iconic roles, and playing symphony conductor Lydia Tár. She reflects on her upbringing, avoiding typecasting, working with legendary actors, and the challenges of filming during the pandemic. The podcast covers her diverse projects, including a shift towards TV, portraying complex characters, and the transformative experience of working on 'Tár'.
Blanchett's journey from hobbyist to acclaimed actress reveals the importance of persistence and training in the industry.
Exploring diverse characters fosters empathy and dialogue, addressing societal issues through complex portrayals.
Preparation and dedication to authentic portrayals, like Lydia Tarr, challenge actors to embody multifaceted roles with depth.
Deep dives
Kate Blanchett's Journey from Acting as a Hobby to Drama School
Kate Blanchett shares her humble beginnings in Melbourne, Australia, where she started acting as a hobby. Despite initially considering acting beyond a hobby due to financial concerns, she eventually auditioned for drama school at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in another state, where Lindy Davis's text-based approach made a lasting impression on her training.
Kate Blanchett's Experience as a Reader for a Casting Director and Transition to Professional Acting
After graduating from NIDA, Kate Blanchett worked as a reader for a casting director, gaining insights into the audition process and industry dynamics. Despite feeling invisible in the casting process, she learned valuable lessons and eventually transitioned into professional acting, landing roles in acclaimed stage productions in Sydney and noteworthy films like 'Elizabeth', 'The Talented Mr. Ripley', and 'Bandits'.
Kate Blanchett's Diverse Acting Roles from Queen Elizabeth to Bob Dylan
Kate Blanchett's acting career flourished with iconic roles like Queen Elizabeth I in 'Elizabeth' and portraying Bob Dylan in 'I'm Not There'. Her collaborations with directors like Martin Scorsese in 'The Aviator' and David Fincher in 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' showcased her versatility. Additionally, her involvement in unique projects like 'Carol' and the multi-screen installation 'Manifesto' highlighted her commitment to exploring complex character portrayals.
Portraying Diverse Characters and Bridging Divides
Actress discusses the importance of portraying characters with differing views and backgrounds to connect with audiences across divides. By portraying complex characters 'warts and all,' the aim is to understand the root causes of societal issues like human rights abuses, promoting empathy and dialogue.
Artistic Challenges and Transformative Collaborations
Discussion on the challenges and rewards of portraying multifaceted characters like Lydia Tarr, requiring extensive preparation such as learning German and conducting music authentically. The narrative of Tarr delves into themes of power dynamics and self-reinvention, prompting viewers to reflect on societal norms through a female protagonist in a predominantly male -dominated orchestra world.
In front of an audience at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, the two-time Oscar winner reflects on her unexpected path to screen acting, how she landed and tackled the roles for which she is best known and the massive undertaking of playing symphony orchestra conductor Lydia Tár.