In the world of filmmaking, it is often said that a great director can make or break a movie. For Rooney Mara, this sentiment holds true as she admits to choosing projects based on the directors she wants to work with. During a recent press conference at the Berlin Film Festival, Mara shared her thoughts on the importance of the director's role in shaping a film.
Mara revealed that early on in her career, she had some bad experiences as an actor. However, it was her work with director David Fincher on 'The Social Network' that restored her faith in the craft. From that point onward, she realized the significance of following the director's vision. Since then, Mara has made her choices based on who she wants to collaborate with, understanding that ultimately, the success of a film lies in the hands of the director.
This approach led her to her latest project, 'La Cocina,' directed by Alonso Ruizpalacios. The film, which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival, tells the story of a waitress (played by Mara) working in a high-stress Manhattan restaurant. She forms a relationship with a backroom cook, portrayed by Raúl Briones. Mara explained that she was drawn to Ruizpalacios' vision and his emotional pitch for the film. He wrote her a beautiful letter, describing his intentions and the experience he wanted to create. Intrigued, Mara knew she wanted to be a part of it.
Interestingly, despite the film being set in New York City, the production team decided to build a full-scale kitchen on a soundstage in Mexico. This decision allowed for more time to rehearse and greater control over the filming process. Mara herself acknowledged the benefits of this approach, emphasizing the importance of preparation.
In 'La Cocina,' Ruizpalacios wanted to capture the reality of a high-pressure kitchen environment. Drawing from his own experiences, he aimed to portray the camaraderie and intense dynamics found within such settings. He explained that kitchens have a strict caste system, and boundaries and hierarchies are not crossed. This perspective explains the presence of what some may see as toxic masculinity in the film. Ruizpalacios defended his choices, stating that depicting a kitchen where all the male characters are understanding and caring towards each other would be unrealistic. He wanted to highlight the gritty reality of these environments, where it's every man for himself during the rush.
Rooney Mara's insights into her selection process highlight the crucial role a director plays in a film's success. By following the director and their vision, she has found greater fulfillment in her acting career. Her collaboration with director Alonso Ruizpalacios on 'La Cocina' is a testament to the importance of this relationship. The film itself takes a realistic and unapologetic approach to portraying the challenging world of high-stress kitchens and the dynamics within them. Overall, both Mara and Ruizpalacios emphasize the impact a director can have on shaping a film and bringing their vision to life.
