Kate Winslet is currently one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Rose DeWitt Bukater in James Cameron’s Titanic, alongside Leonardo DiCaprio. That said, she was unsure about one movie with Justin Timberlake for good reason.
Kate Winslet never fails to go above expectations for any role she sets her mind to, as she is always determined to give her best performance in each and every movie. Therefore, she has won the love and admiration of fans and peers alike.
Kate Winslet Had Hesitation About One Movie With Justin Timberlake
Woody Allen’s Wonder Wheel unfolds on Coney Island in the 1950s, featuring Kate Winslet as Ginny, a perpetually dissatisfied housewife. Her life takes a turbulent turn when she becomes enamored with a charming local lifeguard, played by Justin Timberlake. The situation becomes even more complex with the unexpected arrival of her stepdaughter Carolina (Juno Temple), who develops her own feelings for Timberlake’s character. As the romantic entanglements intensify, Ginny’s desperation leads her to erratic actions and a potentially ominous resolution.
While speaking to IndieWire, Kate Winslet admitted feeling nervous and unsure if she could embody a character demanding both honesty and wildness when it came to Wonder Wheel. Confronted with doubt, she shared her concerns with her family, expressing uncertainty about her ability to play the role.
“I don’t know how to play this part. I’m just going to have to let it go, and it’s going to be one of those moments I’ll probably regret, and I’ll look at someone else playing the role, brilliantly. Much better than I would. Just, that’s it. Forget it.”
Winslet even considered the possibility of regretting the decision, envisioning someone else portraying the character more brilliantly. Ultimately, Winslet faced the challenge head-on, acknowledging the need to let go and embrace the role.
Kate Winslet’s Family Convinced Her To Go Through With The Film
Fortunately, both her husband and teenage daughter encouraged Kate Winslet to embrace the challenging role in Wonder Wheel. It’s the kind of complex character that few actresses encounter. While some may label it as a “strong female character,” Winslet isn’t fond of that designation.
“That word ‘strong,’ I think it means prominent, dominating, female-driven. I think it means that we are taken through the thrust of a story by a woman, as opposed to a man,” Winslet said. “To be ‘strong’ sometimes isn’t the most interesting thing. It is more interesting to be complicated, and vulnerable, and real, and terrified, and hopeful, and full of regret.”
According to her, “strong” often implies prominence, dominance, and being female-driven. She believes that being “strong” isn’t always the most interesting aspect. Instead, she finds complexity, vulnerability, authenticity, fear, hope, and regret to be more captivating qualities.