Isabelle Huppert, fresh from a theater tour, discusses her role in Asghar Farhadi's 'Parallel Tales', which premiered at Cannes, featuring stars like Virginie Efira and Vincent Cassel. Huppert plays a writer seeking inspiration, complicating her life with the help of a homeless man, played by Adam Bessa.
Huppert on Farhadi's Script
Huppert found the script's complexity appealing, saying, "I thought I didn’t understand everything — and that’s exactly why I wanted to do it even more." She describes Farhadi as "a true craftsman — an orfèvre, a goldsmith." Her character, a reclusive writer, is likened to "a witch, a kind of demiurge."
Cannes and Career Highlights
A Cannes veteran, Huppert has appeared in over 20 films in competition, winning twice. Recently, she received a Magnolia award in Shanghai for "The Cherry Orchard." In the past year, she starred in "The Richest Woman in the World" and "The Blood Countess." Despite her Hollywood acclaim, Huppert's first English film will be "Lineage", directed by Yann Demange.
Working with Farhadi
"Parallel Tales" draws inspiration from Krzysztof Kieślowski, with Huppert's role diverging from its source. She notes the film's lack of psychological exposition, with characters revealed through setting and action. Farhadi's meticulous nature extends to costume and set design, adding depth to the narrative.
Reflecting on the Role
Huppert's character experiences a dynamic relationship with Bessa's character, blending maternal and conflicting tones. The apartment set, designed by Emmanuelle Duplay, profoundly influenced her performance. Huppert calls the film an ensemble piece, with many characters existing in parallel worlds.
Huppert's versatility is evident as she navigates both film and theater, touring globally with productions like "The Cherry Orchard." Her continued curiosity in cinema and literature fuels her artistic journey, making her a prominent figure in international film.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/global/isabelle-huppert-asghar-farhadi-parallel-tales-cannes-1236748537/
