‘Three Women’ Helmer Lisa Brühlmann Talks Acting and Directing in ‘When We Were Sisters’: ‘I’ve Never Felt I Wasn’t Taken Seriously Because I Took Myself Seriously’

As a movie buff with decades of film-watching under my belt, I must say that Lisa Brühlmann‘s latest work, “When We Were Sisters,” has left quite an impact on me. This Swiss powerhouse not only directed but also starred in the film, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft.


In “When We Were Sisters,” Swiss filmmaker Lisa Brühlmann chose to assume dual roles, acting as both an actress and a director.

Following my drama school education, I promptly chose to delve into filmmaking studies. My intention was to acquire this skillset so that no one could dismiss me as ‘just an actor.’ I’ve always felt that my directing abilities were respected due to the fact that I respected myself in this role,” she expresses.

Acting experience greatly enhances my abilities as a director, particularly when collaborating with young talent. To me, these roles complement and enrich one another.

Juggling two jobs was incredibly tiring, but the opportunity to play Monica in a role that involved going on holiday with her 15-year-old daughter Valeska, her new boyfriend Jaques, and his daughter Lena, was too appealing to turn down.

Brühlmann explains that the character is well-developed and compelling due to her complex nature, as she strives to be a good mother while battling self-doubt about her own abilities. This insecurity leads to aggressive behavior, a struggle many people can understand. Despite her intense personality, he emphasizes that he does not intend to pass judgment on her.

I yearned to act once more, and I found myself, figuratively speaking, throwing myself into the role to check if I still had what it takes. It was an enriching experience, but I don’t think I’d go back. The prolonged portrayal of such a self-destructive character… It left me bald.

With “When We Were Sisters,” Brühlmann makes her comeback to the Zurich Film Festival, where she previously received an award for “Blue My Mind.” Since then, she has directed numerous episodes of highly praised television series, such as “Three Women,” adapted from Lisa Taddeo’s bestselling book, and “Killing Eve,” which earned her an Emmy nomination.

She mentions that she intentionally aimed to create a compact movie that would have a substantial effect,” she explains. After securing more television opportunities initially, she’s also working on another feature film project.

She mentions that the story also delves into themes of love and forgiveness, but what’s unique this time is her desire to delve deeper into the male perspective and feature a male protagonist,” (paraphrased).

In “When We Were Sisters,” I aimed to portray Jacques as a character with depth and complexity. While I don’t delve into his entire past, there are moments where we catch a glimpse of it. Despite their shared desire for happiness, Jacques isn’t yet ready for a new relationship.

Soon, their new patchwork family is ripping at the seams.

Brühlmann remarks that in the movie, the children exhibit maturity beyond adults, which he found intriguing. As a teenager, he himself went on a trip with his single mother and her new partner. This man also had a daughter. Although these characters are fictional, Brühlmann is familiar with such family dynamics.

They’re currently unable to depart as they’re not present; instead, they’re under the control of their parents’ decisions and moods. They’re forced to mimic compliance.

Valeska and Lena (played by Paula Rappaport and Malou Mösli) easily agree on many things. Unfortunately, the same harmony isn’t present between their parents, as their arguments grow increasingly intense. As Jacques distances himself, Monica persists in accusing her own daughter.

As a movie buff, I’d rephrase it this way: “Kids might find it entertaining to watch their parents argue – that is, until it stops being funny. I didn’t want to intrude, but it seems they’ve found themselves at a crossroads. The human condition, with its deep and dark abysses, has always been a source of fascination for me,” says the director.

It eventually becomes apparent that they aren’t suited for each other. When issues arise, Monica tends to blame others instead of taking responsibility. This is her tragic flaw. In the end, Valeska comprehends that she wasn’t the source of the problems. Although it seems minor, this realization is crucial.

Initially, the movie “When We Were Sisters” was primarily focused on themes of friendship, recovery, and resilience, according to Brühlmann.

Occasionally, friends can provide more support than family. As Valeska seeks emotional connection, she begins to delve into her sexuality, but walks a delicate balance between what’s healthy and what’s questionable. It isn’t until her friendship with Lena that Valeska finds the bravery to assert: ‘Here is where I draw the line.’

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2024-10-04 16:47