Margaret Qualley Shares Insights on Collaborating with ‘The Substance’ Director
Actress Margaret Qualley recently opened up about her experience working with director Coralie Fargeat on the upcoming film, ‘The Substance’. Qualley, known for her roles in projects like ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ and ‘Maid’, will be starring alongside Demi Moore in this feminist body-horror thriller.
A Clash Over Character’s Physical Presentation
In a revealing interview with The Sunday Times, Qualley delved into the challenges she faced while filming ‘The Substance’. The actress plays Sue, a provocative TV aerobics instructor, and underwent intense physical training to embody the character. Personal trainers were brought in to help Qualley achieve Sue’s athletic physique, but tensions arose when the director expressed dissatisfaction with the results.
Qualley recalled, “I had to be like, OK, well, I did what you said and you’re not happy. So I guess I’ll take matters into my own hands.” To accurately portray Sue’s well-endowed appearance, the actress revealed, “There was no magic boob potion, so we had to glue those on.” Despite the initial challenges, Qualley praised Fargeat for enlisting an incredible prosthetic team to enhance her physical features for the role.
A Unique Spin on Body Horror
‘The Substance’ promises to offer a fresh take on the body horror genre, with Moore portraying an aging fitness queen who resorts to a mysterious black market drug to transform into a younger, sexier version of herself, played by Qualley. The film’s premise explores themes of identity, aging, and the lengths individuals may go to in pursuit of eternal youth and beauty.
The collaboration between Qualley and Fargeat on ‘The Substance’ showcases the creative process behind bringing complex characters to life on screen. As Qualley navigated the challenges of embodying Sue’s physicality and persona, she also delved into the emotional depth of the character, creating a multidimensional portrayal that transcends mere aesthetics.
The Power of Transformation in Film
Qualley’s dedication to her craft is evident in her willingness to undergo physical transformations for her roles. From mastering the art of aerobics for ‘The Substance’ to immersing herself in the world of Manson Family member Pussycat in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’, Qualley consistently demonstrates her versatility as an actress.
As the release date for ‘The Substance’ approaches, audiences can anticipate a gripping and thought-provoking cinematic experience that challenges conventional notions of beauty, age, and self-perception. With Qualley’s nuanced performance at the forefront, the film promises to deliver a compelling exploration of the human psyche and the consequences of unchecked vanity.
In conclusion, Margaret Qualley’s candid revelations about her collaboration with director Coralie Fargeat offer a glimpse into the intricacies of filmmaking and character development. ‘The Substance’ stands as a testament to the transformative power of cinema, where actors and filmmakers come together to create immersive narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level.
