Imogen Poots has recently reflected on a quote from Sam Shepard: "People here have become the people they’re pretending to be." This line from his "Motel Chronicles" collection resonates deeply with her role as Thea in the film "Hedda," showcasing the complex nature of working as an artist in the Hollywood industry while maintaining one's authenticity. After two decades of acting, Poots is experiencing a moment of clarity regarding her artistic journey.
The 36-year-old English actress has carved out a notable career in independent cinema and theater, collaborating with distinguished filmmakers and actors like Peter Bogdanovich, Terrence Malick, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Imelda Staunton. However, 2023 has been a particularly remarkable year for Poots, with three significant films that highlight her talent: "Hedda," where she stars alongside Nina Hoss, "All of You," a romantic drama featuring Brett Goldstein, and Kristen Stewart's directorial debut, "The Chronology of Water."
Poots expressed her gratitude for each of these projects finding their rightful place, saying, "You can make these films that simply don’t find their home, or don’t find the right home. And that can be quite devastating." Each film represents her aspiration to engage with stories and filmmakers that resonate on a personal level.
"The Chronology of Water," derived from Lidia Yuknavitch's memoir, presents a bold and challenging narrative that explores themes of abuse, addiction, and self-discovery. Poots describes the protagonist as a complex character, "like the weather," indicative of her tumultuous journey. The film’s intensity required profound trust in Stewart, a collaborative spirit that extended beyond filming, as they engaged in ongoing discussions that fueled their creative bond.
Kristen Stewart praised Poots for her authenticity, noting that audiences often view her as a fresh presence, untainted by previous roles. This unique quality allows Poots to engage in her performances without the constraints of being a conventional "actress." Poots, however, views this visibility as both a part of her job and an exposure of her true self, reflecting on the value of creating work that is meaningful and fulfilling to her.
In an industry rife with competing trends and pressures, Poots emphasizes the importance of understanding one's preferences and boundaries. She recounts her early career, where she was eager to explore diverse roles, but now possesses a clearer sense of what aligns with her artistic identity. This discernment has become crucial amidst the industry's noise, which can sometimes lead to uncomfortable experiences.
Poots recognizes the exceptional talent present in today's acting landscape and the necessity to remain true to oneself, resisting the urge to conform to mainstream norms. She advocates for the creation of original work, challenging the industry's underestimation of audiences, who are more discerning and imaginative than many believe. "There’s too much potential not to be making original work," she asserts.
Looking ahead, Poots is set to reunite with director Jeremy Saulnier for a new project alongside Chase Sui Wonders and Cory Michael Smith. She describes this collaboration as a return to a familiar and welcoming environment. Concluding her thoughts, Poots articulates her preference for projects that prioritize authenticity and meaningful storytelling over merely appealing to superficial standards of beauty and commercial success.
