Primarily known to audiences for her lead role in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. A versatile actress – she is no stranger to costume films, comedies, thrillers, or psychological dramas. Once dreaming of a career as a ballerina, she now boasts a directorial and theatrical debut. It is no surprise that Mia Wasikowska is this year’s recipient of the festival award ‘Against the Current’.
The Australian actress with Polish roots participated in the Opening Gala of the 18th edition of the Mastercard OFF CAMERA International Festival of Independent Cinema, when she accepted in person the ‘Against the Current’ Special Award. In her considerable filmography, Wasikowska has roles in productions such as Piercing by Nicolas Pesce, Crimson Peak by Guillermo Del Toro, Mrs. Bovary by Sophie Barthes, Jane Eyre by Cary Fukunaga, Stoker by Chan-wook Park and Club Zero by Jessica Hausner. She also appeared in the first season of the HBO series In Treatment. In connection with the award she received at the festival, we asked the actress several questions about her experiences in the film industry.
You have acted in films that represent values seen in independent cinema, but also on the projects that have more commercial approach. How do determine your own way between these two different worlds?
It’s a great joy to be able to bounce between independent cinema and bigger studio films. Independent cinema is where everything begins; it’s like the birthplace of all auteurs and directors who later end up creating legendary films. So it’s super important to appreciate independent authors and their works.
You also have exeprience as a film director – did being on the other side of camera affect your perception of acting?
A little bit, although it was sort of the other way around. When I had said I wanted to direct, I had a lot of directors say something like: “now you’ll finally understand what it’s like”. So I was very nervous and anxious at first, but in the end I realised that I really know how to do it, which gave me confidence for next projects.
You have been awarded with the ‘Against the Current’ Special Award for following your own path and bringing new directions into the world cinema. What does this award mean for you personally?
It’s a real honour to accept this award in my mum’s birth country, and also to be able to bring her and my auntie with me. It’s a very special moment for me.
Aleksandra Kubas
photo Klaudia Kot