Cinedakota Johnson criticizes studios that avoid risks: ‘It is a constant struggle’

During a conversation at the Cannes Festival, where he presents the dramatic comedy Splitsvillethe actress and producer Dakota Johnson He criticized the lack of boldness of film studios and shared frustrations with how great productions are conducted. The event was promoted by Kering at the “Women in Motion” table.

“I often wanted to create my own producer and make my own movies because I want more of this industry. I want more of my experience as an artist.

I felt thirsty for more conversation, creativity and collaboration, ”he said.“ Sometimes I found myself coming to the premiere of a movie, watching for the first time, and thinking, ‘Wow. This was not what I thought we were doing. ‘ This is very strange. ”

Next to the producer RO DONNELLYwith whom it founded the Teatime Pictures In 2019, Dakota defended a more collaborative set of set, focusing on a healthy environment and creative alignment.

“The way we build our sets is energy based. It’s vibe. We have a clear ‘no asshole’ policy. And we guarantee that each person in the team knows exactly what we are doing so that everyone feels part.

Working with cinema is exhaustive, not comfortable. But when you feel you are genuinely involved, everything works better. ”

The actress also explained that she decided to produce Splitsville for being a fan of the feature The climb (2019), of the writers Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvinand was surprised that he had no more prominence. In producing the duo’s new project, she wanted to ensure that the film was protected and kept faithful to the original view.

RO DONNELLYits partner, reinforced the mission of the producer: “Original ideas from new filmmakers are our greatest passion.”

Teatime Pictures was also responsible for CHA CHA REAL SMOOTHfilm screened in Sundance, where Dakota met Vanessa Burghardtautistic actress who played her daughter. According to Dakota, she is working with Burghardt in her first project as a director, based on a script written by the actress herself.

“She is an actress and autistic musician. We are developing scripts with her. She wrote one, and is really special. He talks about a young woman with autism, and I feel very protective with her, her story and her mind. She is an amazing woman. I think I couldn’t let anyone else direct this project. So let’s see.”

Dakota played with the idea of ​​finally debuting as director: “I want to drive and I need to create courage for it … In fact, no, I don’t need to create ‘balls’ and no one can make me.”

Despite the success of the producer, the actress acknowledged that the journey has been difficult: “It was very challenging to make people take us seriously. That was sad and ridiculous. I always glamorized this industry, thinking it was pure magic. Seeing the backstage that way was just shit. It was hard.”

“Some studio executives have no interest in doing different, risky, frightening, real, human, raw, confusing things. And that’s hard. As an actress, that’s what I want. As a spectator, that’s what I want. It’s a constant struggle. But we are fighter. We work hard to tell the stories we love.”

Splitsville has distribution of Neon and should debut in theaters in 2025.