According to Elisabeth Moss, Angelina Jolie was "Incredibly Intimidating" on the Set of Girl, Interrupted
Girl, Interrupted (1999) remains one of the most iconic psychological dramas of its time. Featuring an all-star cast, the film follows the struggles of a group of young women in a psychiatric institution. While the movie itself left a lasting impression on audiences, what happened behind the scenes was equally fascinating. One of the standout revelations came from Elisabeth Moss, who described Angelina Jolie as "incredibly intimidating" on set. But why did she feel that way? Let’s dive into the details.
The Legacy of Girl, Interrupted
This movie, based on Susanna Kaysen’s memoir, captivated audiences with its raw and emotional portrayal of mental health struggles. Winona Ryder played the protagonist, Susanna, while Angelina Jolie’s character, Lisa Rowe, stole the spotlight with her electrifying performance.
Elisabeth Moss's Experience on Set
Elisabeth Moss, who played Polly “Torch” Clark, was still in the early stages of her career when she worked on Girl, Interrupted. Despite sharing the screen with seasoned actresses, she found Jolie particularly intimidating due to her intense dedication to the role.
Angelina Jolie’s Impactful Performance
Jolie’s portrayal of Lisa Rowe was both captivating and unsettling. Her ability to completely embody her character made her presence on set impossible to ignore. This commitment to authenticity is what made her performance Oscar-worthy.
The Character of Lisa Rowe: A Force of Nature
Lisa Rowe wasn’t just another supporting character—she was the heart of the film. A rebellious and unpredictable sociopath, Lisa pushed the boundaries of every scene she was in, making audiences simultaneously fear and admire her.
Method Acting: How Jolie Became Lisa
To fully embrace the role, Jolie adopted a method acting approach. She stayed in character even off-screen, which contributed to the intimidating aura Moss and others felt on set.
Winona Ryder’s Perspective on Jolie’s Performance
Even Winona Ryder, the film’s lead, acknowledged that Jolie's presence was overpowering. While the movie was intended to focus on Susanna’s journey, Jolie’s intensity often shifted the spotlight toward Lisa.
The Chemistry Among the Cast Members
The ensemble cast had great chemistry, but there was a noticeable shift in energy whenever Jolie was around. Her character’s larger-than-life persona often dictated the mood of a scene, making it difficult for others to match her level of performance.
How Jolie’s Intensity Shaped the Movie
The film’s emotional weight relied heavily on the actors' performances. Jolie’s ability to bring Lisa to life added a layer of unpredictability that elevated the film to cult classic status.
Jolie’s Award-Winning Performance
Jolie’s portrayal of Lisa Rowe earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her ability to seamlessly blend charm, manipulation, and raw emotion made her character unforgettable.
The Lasting Impact of Girl, Interrupted
Over two decades later, Girl, Interrupted continues to resonate with audiences. The film’s themes of mental health, friendship, and rebellion remain relevant today.
Elisabeth Moss's Career After the Movie
Despite feeling intimidated by Jolie, Elisabeth Moss went on to have a successful career, starring in critically acclaimed projects like The Handmaid’s Tale and Mad Men.
Angelina Jolie’s Rise to Stardom
After Girl, Interrupted, Angelina Jolie’s career skyrocketed. She took on more challenging roles and eventually became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, known for both her acting and humanitarian efforts.
What Makes an Actor Intimidating on Set?
Intensity, dedication, and sheer talent can make certain actors seem intimidating. When someone fully immerses themselves in a role, it can create a powerful presence that influences everyone around them.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Lisa Rowe was a game-changer, and her dedication to the role was evident both on and off-screen. While Elisabeth Moss found her intimidating, it’s clear that Jolie’s commitment to her craft was a key factor in the film’s success. Girl, Interrupted remains an iconic piece of cinema, thanks in large part to the unforgettable performances of its cast.
FAQs
1. Why did Elisabeth Moss find Angelina Jolie intimidating?
Elisabeth Moss found Jolie intimidating because of her intense commitment to the role of Lisa Rowe. Her method acting approach and commanding on-screen presence made her a force to be reckoned with.
2. Did Angelina Jolie and Elisabeth Moss get along off-screen?
While there are no reports of conflict, Moss’s comments suggest that Jolie’s presence was overwhelming rather than unfriendly.
3. What awards did Angelina Jolie win for Girl, Interrupted?
Jolie won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Lisa Rowe.
4. How did Angelina Jolie prepare for her role in Girl, Interrupted?
Jolie reportedly studied psychiatric disorders and immersed herself in her character, staying in Lisa’s mindset even when cameras weren’t rolling.
5. What is the main message of Girl, Interrupted?
The film explores themes of mental health, self-identity, and the challenges of navigating institutional care, making it a deeply personal and thought-provoking story.
