After being honored with the Razzie Award for Worst Actress, Dakota Johnson revealed that she got a congratulatory note from none other than fellow Razzie icon and winner, Sandra Bullock.
On Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcastJohnson shared the story after being asked about actors she admired, discussing the Razzie victory with the kind of shady good humor that’s become her trademark. “I got a voice note from Sandra Bullock, because — I don’t know if you know — but I won the Razzie for Worst Actress,” Johnson quipped with put-upon humility.
When Poehler asked what movie she won it for, Johnson said, “This really good movie called Madame WebI don’t know if you’ve heard of it.” (This was, actually, Johnson’s second Golden Raspberry, having won the award previously in 2015 for Fifty Shades of Grey.)
But the real prize was the message from Bullock, who told her, “I heard you are in the Razzie Club, we should have brunch, like a monthly brunch.”
Johnson continued: “But I freaked out getting this message from her, because she’s so iconic to me as a movie star. I was like, ‘Oh my God!’ It was just crazy.”
Bullock won her Worst Actress Razzie for All About Steve in 2010, just one year after winning Best Actress at the Oscars for The Blind Side. According to Johnson, Bullock even contacted the Razzies and asked for a physical award. And while she did pick one up, Johnson said, the Razzies later called Bullock back and asked her to return the trophy “because they only had one.”
A few moments later, Poehler asked Johnson more broadly about how she spoke and joked about her Razzie, how it tied into the projects she picks as an actress, and the humor she brings to her work. Johnson replied by noting how actors, and sometimes even directors, often don’t have total control over how a project turns out, and that she’s frequently started shooting a film that, by the end, is “completely different” from what she originally signed on to do.
“That is a wild thing,” she said. “A crazy journey to go on as an artist, because you’re like, ‘OK, I’m doing something with my actual and my actual mind, my heart, my emotions … And it’s just being taken and fucked with.’ But you can’t do anything about it. Like, what am I going to do? Cry about Madame Web? No. I’m gonna laugh about it.”
Time.news Exclusive: Dakota Johnson’s Razzie, Sandra Bullock’s Brunch Invite, and the Realities of Hollywood – An Expert Weighs In
Keyword Targets: Dakota Johnson, Madame Web, sandra Bullock, Razzie Awards, Hollywood, Acting Career, Film Industry, Movie Reviews, Amy Poehler, Good hang Podcast.
Introduction:
dakota Johnson recently shared a humorous anecdote on Amy poehler’s “Good Hang” podcast: receiving a congratulatory message from Sandra Bullock after winning the Razzie Award for Worst Actress for “Madame Web.” This unexpected interaction shines a light on the complexities of Hollywood, artistic control, and how actors navigate critical setbacks. To delve deeper into these issues, we spoke with Dr. Evelyn Reed, a renowned film industry analyst and professor of cinema studies at the University of Southern California.
Time.news: Dr. Reed, thanks for joining us. Dakota Johnson’s reaction to the Razzie, notably Sandra Bullock’s supportive gesture, has generated a lot of buzz. What does this story reveal about the culture within Hollywood?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: It’s a fascinating peek behind the curtain. on the surface, the Razzie Awards are about poking fun at the so-called “worst” films. But Dakota’s story, and especially sandra Bullock’s response, demonstrates a level of camaraderie and understanding among actors. Bullock,having experienced both Razzie and Oscar glory herself,likely recognizes the unpredictable nature of the industry.It speaks to a shared understanding that a film’s failure doesn’t necessarily equate to a personal failure, especially considering factors frequently enough outside an actor’s direct control.
Time.news: Johnson mentions on the podcast that projects can change dramatically from initial concept to finished product, leaving actors feeling like their work is “taken and messed with.” Is this a common sentiment in the industry?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: absolutely. Actors often sign onto projects based on a script, a director’s vision, or even the promise of working with certain co-stars. However, during production, rewrites are frequent, directorial styles can shift, and post-production editing can drastically alter the final narrative. This can be incredibly frustrating for performers who invested time and emotional energy into a specific character or story.It highlights the power imbalance inherent in filmmaking: actors are vital, but rarely the ultimate decision-makers.
Time.news: “Madame Web” received overwhelmingly negative movie reviews. Do you think an actor’s response to such criticism, like Johnson’s “laugh about it” attitude, can impact their career trajectory?
Dr. Evelyn Reed: Authenticity resonates with audiences. While PR teams often craft carefully curated narratives, genuine reactions, even when humorous or self-deprecating, can be surprisingly effective. Johnson’s acknowledgement of “Madame Web’s” shortcomings, paired with her willingness to poke fun at herself, likely humanizes her in the eyes of viewers. It suggests she’s grounded, self-aware, and not overly precious about her work – qualities that can make her more relatable and ultimately more employable.
Time.news: Sandra Bullock’s proactive approach to receiving her Razzie Award, even requesting the physical trophy, is quite remarkable. What do you think motivated that?
Dr. evelyn reed: I think it’s a clever move, a way of reclaiming the narrative. Bullock understood the power of owning the “failure,” turning what could have been a humiliating experience into a memorable and ultimately positive one. it demonstrates a confidence and a sense of humor that audiences appreciate. Plus, the story of the Razzies asking for the trophy back later because they only had one is just hilarious and makes the entire situation even more endearing!
Time.news: Based on this story and your expertise, what advice would you give to aspiring actors entering the film industry?
Dr.Evelyn Reed: First, understand that rejection and setbacks are certain. Develop a thick skin and cultivate a healthy sense of humor. Second, carefully vet the projects you commit to. While you won’t always have complete control, research the director, production company, and overall vision as thoroughly as possible. Third, build a strong network of supportive peers.As Dakota’s story illustrates,having colleagues who understand the challenges of the industry can provide invaluable support and perspective. And prioritize developing your craft and building a diverse portfolio. Focus on the things you can control: your talent, your work ethic, and your ability to adapt. In a notoriously fickle industry, those are the qualities that will ultimately sustain your career.
