Scarlett Johansson jumped at the chance to work with Wes Anderson in his new film Asteroid City In which she plays a fictional actress modeled after Oscar winner Bette Davis.
In an interview with EW Scarlett talks about her experience.
“I work well with directors who like to work hard and are precise and relentless,” Johansson said.
“We get excited about the retakes and what you get out of it. It’s almost like you’re rehearsing a play, but you’re getting it all on film, and I kind of like that. Love the work.”
Scarlett revealed that Anderson sent her the script during the 2020 lockdown, and she was eager to discuss the ins and outs of the role.
“He’s an open book, but the way actors can be, where they tell you everything and nothing. He’s a mystery.”
“She talks a lot about her past and why. I had a lot of questions about all of that and what it all meant. Wes likes to talk about the importance of character. “
Explaining her role further, Scarlett added:
“She’s strong and vulnerable at the same time and really charming. Bette Davis’ entire career, her span, was something I could hang my hat on.”
“I’m not playing Bette Davis, but it helped me figure out what that person’s career was and what it was like to be a woman in those circumstances.”
Scarlett also praised co-star Jason Schwartzman’s presence and support during filming, noting that Anderson’s precision and repetition until things were just right suited Schwartzman’s acting style.
Asteroid City It will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival before hitting US theaters on June 16.