Key Highlights
- Tessa Thompson stars as the complex character of Hedda Gabler in a new film directed by Nia DaCosta.
- The project marks a departure for both director and actress, moving from big-budget Marvel films to Ibsen’s play “Hedda Gabler.”
- Thompson delved into theatre archives to prepare for her role, aiming for an intense and nuanced performance.
- The film explores themes of gender roles and freedom in a patriarchal society, with Thompson playing a mixed-race, bisexual character.
From Marvel to Ibsen: Nia DaCosta’s Creative Journey
Nia DaCosta has made a name for herself with horror remakes and blockbuster Marvel sequels. However, her latest project takes an unexpected turn as she directs Tessa Thompson in the adaptation of Hedda Gabler, Henrik Ibsen’s classic play. This film marks a departure from DaCosta’s usual fare, showcasing her versatility as a director.
DaCosta first encountered Ibsen’s work through A Doll’s House. She was particularly struck by the daring nature of Nora Helmer leaving her children to pursue a life beyond societal expectations. “How daring, to write about a woman who leaves her children because she feels as if she hasn’t fully realized her own life,” DaCosta reflects.
Tessa Thompson’s Nuanced Performance
Thompson, known for her roles in big-budget films like The Marvels, delves into the complex character of Hedda Gabler. To prepare for this role, she studied multiple stage productions and performances without taking notes or watching them repeatedly. “It got to the point where I knew the play so well, I could watch productions in Norwegian without subtitles and know what was happening,” Thompson explains.
Thompson’s portrayal of Hedda is described as a “sexy, sultry, machiavellian, vulnerable mess.” The character’s actions are both extreme and nuanced. “She does ‘terrible, unforgivable things,’” DaCosta notes, referring to incidents such as giving a loaded pistol to an emotionally unstable former lover.
Themes of Gender and Freedom
Hedda Gabler is set against the backdrop of post-World War II Britain. The film explores themes of gender roles and personal freedom in a restrictive society. “After the second world war, people were trying to figure out what the hell to do with themselves,” DaCosta says. “These characters are trying to find breathing space amidst societal constraints.”
The film features several strong female characters, including Nina Hoss’s Dr Lovborg, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The director emphasizes that the focus is not on celebrating a “strong black woman” but rather on exploring the multifaceted lives of the characters.
Challenges in Hollywood for Women Directors
DaCosta discusses the challenges faced by women, particularly women of color, in Hollywood. “The math is different for me,” she states, referring to discrepancies in budget allocations based on the actors involved. Despite these barriers, DaCosta maintains a positive outlook, emphasizing her collaboration with supportive producers and maintaining good relationships with colleagues like Kevin Feige.
Thompson echoes this sentiment, stating that DaCosta is “refreshing” and “candid.” Their working relationship, built on mutual respect and negging, underscores their commitment to bringing complex characters and stories to life in a challenging industry.
Hedda, directed by Nia DaCosta and starring Tessa Thompson, hits UK cinemas on 24 October and will be available on Amazon Prime Video from 29 October. The film promises to challenge audiences with its dark themes and complex characters, marking a significant departure for both director and actress.
