Mia Wasikowska: “I really enjoyed playing Annabel”

Gus Van Sant came to present his film Restless, which opened Un Certain Regard yesterday, accompanied by his actors Henry Hopper and Mia Wasikowska, producer Bryce Dallas Howard and writer Jason Lew.

Gus Van Sant spoke about being selected for Un Certain Regard:

“It’s always fantastic and fabulous to be at the Festival de Cannes. Today the selection for Un Certain Regard is quite different from the 1990s. Now it’s become a really important part of the Festival and in any case, in Competition, in Un Certain Regard, in the Director’s Fortnight or whatever, I’m always glad to be here.”

And about his way of directing movies: 

“I talk to people a lot so they relax, so they don’t feel like they’re passing an exam. Like Clint Eastwood, I try to make sure the atmosphere stays calm during the shoot.”

Jason Lew explained why there were no mobile phones or social media in the film:

“It’s a deliberate choice. I wanted the film to be timeless and I didn’t want it to be about two kids who are always on Facebook, especially as they are two completely unique, non-conformist characters.”

Mia Wasikowska was enthusiastic about her role:

“When I read the script, I could almost see Annabel in front of me. She has such a strong personality, I really enjoyed playing her character. She knows she is going to die, but she is full of joy.”

Bryce Dallas Howard on Restless being her first movie as a producer:

“This experience was one long learning curve. At the end of each day, we had to know if the result was good and why. I still have a heap of things to learn about producing, but I have understood one thing. You have to be responsible, so you can make the best use of the money entrusted to you.”

Interview by A.C.