Giovana Gelhoren
Updated on: October 12, 2024 10:31 pm GMT
In a striking revelation, Margaret Qualley shared that she turned to tequila and marijuana to cope while filming an intense scene in her latest movie, The Substance. The actress, known for her roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and as the daughter of famed actress Andie MacDowell, openly discussed the challenges she faced during the filming of the sexually charged horror film, which has generated both applause and controversy.
Filming the Challenging Scene
Qualley plays the role of Sue, an aerobics instructor who embodies a “better version” of the character Elisabeth Sparkle, portrayed by Demi Moore. The film follows Sparkle as she experiments with a mysterious drug that alters her body and persona. During an interview with The Sunday Times, Qualley reflected on her discomfort while performing a key dance scene that required her to embrace a provocative side she found difficult to portray.
- Raw Emotions: Qualley revealed that the pressure of performing in front of a crew made her feel overwhelmed. She admitted to crying in the bathroom before filming, stating, “That specific kind of sexuality doesn’t lend itself to me.”
- Finding Courage: To manage her anxiety, she opted for a mix of marijuana and tequila, saying, “I just got wasted first thing in the morning because I was like, I can’t do this in front of everybody.” This mixture provided her the needed courage to step into her role.
The scene was reportedly both physically and emotionally taxing, leading Qualley to create choreographic routines in private to prepare herself for the performance.
Support from Co-stars
While navigating the emotional landscape of the shooting, Qualley found support in her co-star Demi Moore. The 61-year-old actress expressed that performing intimate scenes alongside Qualley made her feel safe. “I had someone who was a great partner who I felt very safe with,” Moore explained, highlighting the bond they formed during the intense filming process.
Their collaboration is pivotal to the film’s narrative, which tackles themes of body image and the pressures faced by women in the entertainment industry. Moore, who portrays a fitness queen grappling with her age, undertook challenging scenes, including nudity that resonated with the film’s overarching themes.
Diving into the Themes of the Film
Directed by Coralie Fargeat, The Substance has been labeled a “body horror” film, presenting raw, gritty depictions of femininity through its storyline. The film’s provocative approach has drawn both praise and criticism, especially given its explicit imagery.
- Cannes Reception: The Substance garnered significant attention at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received a 13-minute standing ovation. Critics have described it as “audaciously gross” and “wickedly clever,” underscoring its role in sparking discussions around female agency and body autonomy.
Fargeat has spoken about the film’s themes, stating, “Being a woman is body horror.” This statement speaks directly to the discomfort and societal pressures women frequently experience regarding their bodies and how they are perceived.
Critical and Audience Reactions
Since its premiere, the film has maintained a solid 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have lauded it for addressing challenging topics via horror, with one consensus noting that it is “possibly Demi Moore’s finest hour.” This rating reflects both the quality of the narrative and the performances of the cast, including Qualley and Moore.
- Body Image and Feminism: Reviewers have pointed out that the film does not shy away from the uncomfortable realities women face, making it a standout piece in contemporary cinema. By combining horror with social commentary, it aims to leave audiences questioning societal norms about beauty and aging.
Margaret Qualley’s Experience
Qualley’s experience on set was transformative. She initially encountered setbacks while trying to meet the physical demands of her character, leading to the involvement of personal trainers. Despite her hard work, Fargeat’s vision for the character necessitated significant physicality. There were even scenes where prosthetics were used to achieve the appearance envisioned by the director.
- Acceptance and Growth: Through the challenges, Qualley revealed she learned valuable lessons about acceptance and pushing through her comfort zones. Reflecting on the filming experience, she said that it was instrumental in her growth as an artist.
Despite the explicit nature of some scenes, Qualley remains proud of the film and its intentions. She believes that confronting issues related to femininity and body image can resonate deeply with audiences who might have shared similar experiences.
The Release of The Substance
The Substance is set to release in the UK on September 20. With trailer teasers and promotional campaigns ramping up, the film is generating buzz not only for its provocative themes but also for its riveting performances. For those interested in a film that challenges traditional narratives and dives into the complexities of womanhood, The Substance appears to be a compelling choice that promises both entertainment and thought-provoking content.
As the movie gets ready to come out, Margaret Qualley talks openly about the difficulties she faced while playing Sue. This makes us even more curious about what we can expect. *The Substance* isn’t just a scary movie; it’s also going to make people think and talk about the pressures women deal with and how they try to find their true selves in a changing world.
