Cate Blanchett Never Imagined a Career in Film
At the Rotterdam Film Festival, Oscar winner Cate Blanchett revealed that she once believed a career in the film industry was out of her reach.
"I had resigned myself to a career in theater," she said. "I didn't think I had the qualities necessary for film. There was a sense that women had a limited lifespan in the industry and that only certain types were showcased on screen."
However, watching Visconti's "The Stranger" ignited her passion for cinema. "It awakened something within me," she explained. "I was transfixed by the cinematic storytelling and the beauty of the visuals."
Blanchett also credited Australian cinema with inspiring her. "I grew up during an incredible era for Australian filmmaking," she said. "Movies like 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' and 'An Angel at My Table' showed me that it was possible for women like me to make a mark in the industry."
Despite her initial doubts, Blanchett has become one of the most celebrated actresses of her generation. She has won two Oscars, three Golden Globes, and three Screen Actors Guild Awards.
At the festival, Blanchett also discussed her eclectic taste in films, admitting that she used to enjoy horror movies but can't watch them anymore since becoming a mother. She also expressed her love for filmmaker Guy Maddin's work, particularly his films "My Winnipeg" and "Rumours."
"Maddin's films are so beautifully strange and familiar," she said. "They're filled with longing, melancholy, and humor."
Blanchett emphasized the importance of embracing influences and learning from others. "Steal from anyone," she advised. "It's a form of homage and a way to connect with your fellow artists. Your unique voice will emerge through the filter of your own experiences."
The festival honored Blanchett's remarkable career with a retrospective of her work, showcasing her versatility and talent.