If Monica Guerritore wasn’t an actress, she might be an archaeologist, “that’s what I do now: dig characters out of the sediment to go in search of their lives”. At Corriere della Sera Verdone wife in Vita da Carlo, on Amazon Prime but above all Gabriella, the protagonist in the series Inganno on Netflix, talking about her love today and the past.
INSIGHTS
What techniques does Monica Guerritore use to connect with the characters she portrays?
Time.news Interview: Unveiling Layers with Monica Guerritore
Editor (E): Good afternoon, Monica. It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Your work in “Inganno” on Netflix has certainly sparked conversations. You’ve likened your craft as an actress to archaeology, digging into characters to unearth their stories. Could you explain what that means for you?
Monica Guerritore (M): Thank you for having me! That metaphor resonates deeply with me. Just as an archaeologist sifts through sediment to reveal the past, I, too, delve into the layers of a character’s psyche. Each role is like a buried treasure waiting to be discovered. It’s not just about the script; it’s about understanding the nuances, the emotions tied to their experiences.
E: That’s a fascinating perspective. In “Inganno,” you portray Gabriella, and the narrative touches on love, suffering, and the complexities of emotion in later life. How do you think this story reflects the human experience today?
M: “Inganno” is a poignant exploration of love and vulnerability at any age. For the past two decades, I’ve observed a significant absence in stories centering on women experiencing passion beyond traditional narratives. Here, Gabriella embodies that realism; she expresses love not just as a physical act but as a complex emotional response. It challenges societal norms about aging and desire.
E: You’ve previously mentioned the significant influence of Strehler and Gabriele Lavia on your career. How have they shaped your approach to acting?
M: Strehler is a cornerstone of my artistic journey. He once told me, “You will be an actor… and a good person.” That mantra has guided me in my choices. Gabriele Lavia was my partner in every sense; he was not just my husband but also my creative collaborator. The lessons, love, and memories we shared are irreplaceable and continue to inspire me.
E: In your role, you’ve faced some criticism, particularly regarding the portrayal of desire and love in your work. What is your response to those critics who may not follow your artistic vision?
M: Art is subjective, and criticism is part of the game. I challenge those who question the representation of love and desire in “Inganno” to reflect on their own biases. Why is it that stories centered around the emotional complexities of older women are often sidelined? It’s vital to portray both the struggles and joys authentically, without apologies.
E: Switching gears a bit, you’re currently working on a project about Anna Magnani. What excites you most about this endeavor?
M: Anna Magnani was a powerhouse of emotion and talent. Portraying her is both an honor and a challenge. I’m excited to dig into her life, her struggles, her triumphs—a true testament to resilience. It feels like I’m unearthing another layer of history, another character who shaped the acting world.
E: As we wrap up, what do you hope audiences take away from your work in “Inganno” and your upcoming projects?
M: I hope audiences will reflect on the richness of human emotion at every stage of life. Love and vulnerability are universal themes that deserve celebration, regardless of age. Each project serves as a reminder that our stories, no matter how layered, are potent and worthy of exploration.
E: Thank you, Monica. Your insight into the craft of acting and your dedication to telling meaningful stories are truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing where your journey takes you next!
M: Thank you! I’m excited to share more in the future.