As a follower who has deeply resonated with the raw intensity of Alex Garland’s 2024 masterpiece “Civil War”, I can wholeheartedly empathize with Kirsten Dunst‘s harrowing experience. The film, still etched in my memory as one of the most unnerving cinematic experiences of our time, has left an indelible mark on all involved – especially Ms. Dunst who had to grapple with her real-life fears while playing Lee Smith, a war photojournalist amidst chaos and carnage.
Alex Garland’s 2024 “Civil War” continues to haunt our memories, and sometimes nightmares, as one of the most disquieting films of the 21st century. Filming for this intense war drama emphasizing realism was challenging, and since then, lead actress Kirsten Dunst has been candid about the role’s emotional toll on her, particularly when she had to perform scenes opposite her husband Jesse Plemons – some of the most tense and distressing moments in the movie.
Actress Kirsten Dunst, who starred in “The Power of the Dog,” openly shared her primary concern during filming her character as war photojournalist Lee Smith was appearing inexperienced as a photographer. To mitigate this, she collaborated extensively with the movie’s cinematographer, Murray Close, and devoted numerous hours to mastering a casual demeanor while taking photos. However, following some time away from the intense war-themed production, Dunst disclosed in an interview with The Wrap that during the days they spent working together on set, she chose not to communicate with her co-star Jesse Plemons, who portrayed a depiction of a twisted, violent American who indiscriminately killed anyone he perceived as unsuitable.
We didn’t exchange words until our work for those days was completed. I respected his personal space, and he reciprocated, which seemed quite unsettling for him to portray that character. Yet, it was a necessity for all of us — I recall Wagner (Moura) shedding tears on the lawn once we had wrapped up.” – Dunst, as reported by The Wrap [paraphrased version]
Initially, the grim role wasn’t intended for Plemons; it was assigned to another actor who had scheduling issues and couldn’t participate in the war film. However, when Dunst asked Plemons to step in as a replacement, he initially declined due to his discomfort with portraying such a despicable character. Despite this, circumstances led him to reconsider. Since he was already on set supporting Dunst with their two children, and given his exceptional acting skills, the scene turned out effectively. Interestingly, it seemed too effective as Dunst chose not to communicate with Plemons while he was performing the villainous part. It’s understandable why she might feel that way; no one wants their loved one to transform into a monster on screen right before their eyes.
Garland’s Realistic War Zone in ‘Civil War’ Left Dunst Exhausted
Initially this year, viewers found themselves gripped with fear as Garland depicted the dire consequences of unyielding hatred devoid of empathy. Yet, a silver lining lay in the fact that they could retreat to their loved ones, pets, and tranquil neighborhoods, grateful for not experiencing the harrowing events portrayed in the film. Conversely, the lead actress Kirsten Dunst couldn’t escape this grim reality.
If the frightening reality of her life being threatened by someone she held dear wasn’t enough, Garland strived to make the battle scenes on set as authentic as possible. Working under such war-like conditions would tire anyone, and indeed, Dunst admitted that it had a significant impact on her.
Alex aimed for authenticity, eschewing half rounds in favor of full rounds for the blanks. He also opted for robust explosions, and the camera’s movement added to the immersive experience rather than just making it seem cool. The final two weeks of shooting were a relentless barrage of tanks, explosions, gunfire, and stunts – a physically demanding and intense ordeal. Adding to this was the stark contrast of reading about a real-life school shooting afterward. (Quote from Dunst via The Wrap)
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2024-11-26 21:31