Key takeaways:
– Jamie Dornan reminisced his first feature-length role in the period drama, Marie Antoinette.
– The actor expressed his initial fears and doubts about his performance during an interview with Variety.
– Kirsten Dunst shared similar sentiments of intimidation while shooting intimate scenes with Dornan.
– Despite their fears, the movie proved to be a hit and furthered both actors’ Hollywood careers.
Jamie Dornan, known for starring in blockbusters like Fifty Shades of Grey and Belfast, made his first formidable move in Hollywood in Sofia Coppola’s period film, Marie Antoinette. In a recent chat with Kirsten Dunst for Variety’s Actors on Actors segment, Dornan recounted his insecurities and experiences shooting this 2006 film.
Born for the Screen: Jamie Dornan’s Early Career
Dornan first earned acclaim with his debut in Marie Antoinette, a beautifully crafted portrayal of the Queen’s life leading up to the French Revolution. Dornan stepped into the shoes of Count Axel Fersen, romantically linked to Dunst’s Marie Antoinette. This period film gave him his first taste of a feature-length role in the industry.
The road to success was not without its trials. Dornan vividly recalled his anxiety and intimidation while filming. A concern even crossed his mind: Marie Antoinette might be his only shot at a movie career.
Intimations and Overthinking: Dornan’s Early Film Experience
Dornan shared his initial fears about stepping into the field. Seeing himself on set with seasoned actress Kirsten Dunst gave him worry. He was concerned one small error could change his first movie into his last.
His co-star, Dunst, also acknowledged her unease while filming intimate scenes with Dornan, saying these sequences are never comfortable. Despite their initial uncertainties, Dornan conceded that Marie Antoinette turned out to be a pretty good first gig.
Facing Fear Head-on: Dornan’s Intimidation with Directorship
Delving into his recollections, Dornan confessed his intimidation was not just limited to the on-screen action. The prospect of working with critically acclaimed director Sofia Coppola was equally daunting for the young actor. The fear was not merely about being in front of the camera, but about delivering a convincing performance worthy of Coppola’s direction.
A Successful Debut Despite Fears: Marie Antoinette
Overcoming initial fears and intimidation, the filming of Marie Antoinette turned out to be a breakthrough for Dornan. The movie was warmly received, gaining popularity and earning coveted accolades. It successfully carved a path for Dornan’s future Hollywood ventures.
Today, the movie is viewed as an effective display of nostalgia and intimacy. To this day, both Dornan and Dunst look back upon their roles with fondness, despite the daunting start.
From Reservations to Renowned Stardom
Now a recognized face in the entertainment industry, Jamie Dornan’s journey began with this feature film. Reflecting on his career growth, it’s clear that the anxieties and reservations that shadowed his first acting endeavor have long since faded. Dornan’s portrayal of Count Axel Fersen marked a successful debut in Hollywood’s orbit, leading to future roles in notable films like Fifty Shades of Grey and the recent Belfast.
Despite its challenges, Marie Antoinette served as an instrumental launchpad for Dornan. The actor admitted that this 2006 period piece – while intimidating at the time – was indeed a momentous stepping stone in his flourishing career. Dornan’s reflections on his first movie stand as a testament to actors everywhere who undergo similar struggles when starting their journey in Hollywood.
