Cate Blanchett, the Oscar-winning actress known for her roles in films like The Lord of the Rings, Blue Jasmine and The Aviator, recently shared her thoughts on the sex scenes in her latest film, Carol.
In the film, Blanchett plays a married woman who falls in love with a young photographer, played by Rooney Mara, in Todd Haynes’ romantic drama. The tastefully shot scenes between the two women show them taking their romance to the next level.
Asked about the sex scenes at the BFI London Film Festival, Blanchett said: “These are scenes and they are really important. You always have to scrutinize and ask hard questions about these scenes – how necessary are they? But consumption of their relationship (Carol and Therese) is really important. It’s just how we were going to do it. We talked about the scene, and there’s a great sense of trust between Rooney and me.
Blanchett also mentioned that it was a “relief” to do the love scenes with Mara. “The two characters are quite isolated – not only because their feelings set them apart from others, but also because of the gap between their ages. They go through these volcanic feelings towards each other, so it was a relief to do the scenes with Rooney. Finally we get to be together,” she said.
Mara also praised Blanchett for making her feel comfortable during the intimate scenes. “Getting down to work opposite Cate was a dream. She’s a very generous and super-prepared actress, but also very lively and in the moment. I don’t know if a lot of people know that, but she’s also very funny – this amazing Aussie sense of humor and wit about it,” Mara said.
Director Todd Haynes, who previously worked with Blanchett on Bob Dylan’s I’m Not Here, said he wanted his stars to feel comfortable with the scenes. “Love scenes are always difficult. They’re always scary. We do our best to talk about it all together, me and the actors, to find out exactly what they call it in a narrative way and how we’re going to shoot it so that ‘they feel as comfortable and prepared as possible,’ he said.
Blanchett, who was recently awarded the BFI scholarship, said she was “delighted” to be this year’s recipient of the award. “I hope they don’t change their minds. It’s awesome. It’s absolutely wonderful,” she said. Mara also voiced her support for Blanchett’s win saying, “I can’t think of anyone more deserving. She’s one of the greatest actresses we have today.”
Carol, which is adapted from Patricia Highsmith’s novel The Price of Salt, was released in UK cinemas on November 27.
