Emily Blunt, known for her powerful and versatile performances, has always been determined to portray complex, multidimensional, and strong female characters on the screen. However, in an interview with Porter magazine, the acclaimed actress disclosed how she once challenged a screenwriter to write her character “like a guy” to avoid being one-dimensional. Moreover, the actress talked about a particular question that infuriated her, forcing her to compare herself with her co-actor Chris Evans.
Blunt, famous for her roles in projects like Sicario and The Devil Wears Prada, emphasized the need for women characters to be depicted as fallible, intricate, difficult, and even shady, just like their male counterparts. But despite her attempts on-screen, a certain off-screen incident bothered Blunt.
Emily Blunt’s upcoming project with Chris Evans trashes the feminine ideal
Emily Blunt has often expressed her frustration with the persistent tendency to hold women to certain stereotypical ideals in storytelling. Currently, leading the Prime Video series The English, Blunt’s character seeks revenge for the tragic loss of her son in the untamed Wild West. The actress also took on the role of executive producer for the series.
Discussing her character’s intriguing portrayal, Blunt shared her admiration for how her character appears as a juxtaposition of the feminine ‘ideal’ in the harsh and predominantly masculine landscape of the Wild West. The character’s fierce desire for vengeance, while visually distinct, highlights the struggle for justice and retribution against all odds.
Blunt’s dedication to playing complex female characters extends beyond the screen, as she faces inquiries from the media about her work-life balance. The actress recalled her experiences on the set of David Yates’ upcoming drama Pain Hustlers, where she stars alongside Chris Evans, where questions about her parenting choices arose. Blunt expressed her dismay at the double standards that still persist in such situations, as male actors rarely face similar scrutiny.
Furious Emily Blunt asks if Chris Evans is asked the same questions
Emily Blunt candidly highlighted the need to normalize work choices for women and avoid perpetuating outdated stereotypes. Revealing her experience on the sets of her upcoming project, she said,
“When I was on set in Atlanta, which was challenging because I was racing back home every weekend – and then the kids would come to me for five, six days – it was amazing how many people asked where my kids were.”
The Oppenheimer actress stated that women in the industry often find themselves over-explaining and compensating to counter the perception that they might be less available or committed due to their parental responsibilities.
“I thought, ‘I bet Chris Evans isn’t being asked that question, or Andy Garcia, or Jay Duplass.’ And you just normalize it… but I find myself over-explaining or compensating to appear like, ‘I can still do everything and I’m still available.’ It’s that awareness of perception, maybe.”
In her latest role, Blunt portrays a single mother who leads a dual life as a prescription drug dealer, a character she affectionately referred to as her most “shady” yet. She admitted that the intensity of the role kept her up at night, showcasing her dedication to bringing authenticity to her performances.
Source: Indie Wire
