Coralie Fargeat’s Craziest Studio Note: ‘Come on, Calm Down With the Shrimp’

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Coralie Fargeat has never been one to play by the rules.

The creator of “The Substance,” the daring, gut-wrenching body horror movie that caused a stir at Cannes and received five Academy Award nominations, has blazed a trail in filmmaking by setting her own rules.

From creating homemade “Star Wars”-style movies as a youngster to challenging industry doubt about her recent film’s graphic violence and societal commentary, Fargeat has consistently stuck to her creative vision. The success of “The Substance,” which includes a nod for Demi Moore’s remarkable acting, has placed Fargeat at the heart of Hollywood discussions.

In this installment of the EbMaster Awards Circuit Podcast, Fargeat shares insights about her movie’s path, Universal Pictures’ reservations, her respect for Moore, and her profound bond with filmmaking.

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Following its debut at Cannes, “The Substance” garnered attention from indie distributor Mubi, a decision that proved vital for preserving the film’s authenticity. Yet, the path to its release was not without hurdles. Originally part of the project, Universal Pictures expressed concerns about the film’s intense aspects.

In truth, there were various aspects linked to the excess – the gruesome scenes, the brutal violence,” Fargeat reminisces. “I wanted Sue to shove Elizabeth into the mirror not just once, but eight times. And, you may know, all those injections. Many women resort to such extreme measures, going to great lengths, hoping it will lead them to happiness.

The studio objected to an unanticipated aspect – having shrimp featured prominently in a crucial lunch scene involving one of the movie’s main actors, Dennis Quaid, as an unexpected element.

As a film enthusiast, I never expected the shrimp to be the source of discomfort in the movie. Typically, I’d associate such reactions with male characters, like “Ease up on the shrimp!” It seemed excessive and awkward, which I believe made viewers uneasy.

However, it was the critique specifically aimed at the movie’s monster that resonated deeply with Fargeat. This creature, hideous yet sensitive, served as a powerful symbol for the film’s central ideas.

She clarifies that the monster in her film represents the most exposed aspect of herself. Therefore, when the audience rejected it, she questioned herself extensively. However, she then wondered, “Must even monsters adhere to some standards of beauty?” This idea struck her as absurd. She found it restrictive that she couldn’t portray her own interpretation of a monster. After all, how many women have been given the opportunity to depict their personal vision of what a monster could be?

In the face of industry opposition, Fargeat held firm and declined to yield. “I opted to persevere until the very end, to rely on myself,” she explains. “If not me, then who else?” was her thought.

A significant part of the movie’s impact is carried by Demi Moore’s powerful portrayal of Elizabeth Sparkle, a once popular TV fitness personality struggling with her past and seeking rejuvenation through experimental drugs. However, this pursuit leads to a horrifying downward spiral instead.

According to Fargeat, Moore was ideal for the part, particularly during a crucial scene where her character strips off her makeup in front of a mirror. “She ultimately conveyed the violence I required for that instant, making the scene truly embody… the unexpected turn of the film.

Although “The Substance” solidifies Fargeat as a potent figure in contemporary horror and movie-making, her initial creative influences stemmed from a distant, starry galaxy.

Once we got a home camera, a small camcorder for holiday videos, she began creating short films. She even made a mini-remake of ‘Star Wars’, using her toys to create each frame. Her friends often played as Ewoks or Stormtroopers in this production.

Those childhood experiments weren’t merely playful activities; instead, they laid the groundwork for her professional journey. She recalls that instance as the peak of her life. “I experienced a sense of vitality, power, and self-assurance,” she says. “It was when I could truly express myself by creating those brief films that I felt completely in tune with who I am.

Could it be possible that Fargeat might ponder over the idea of directing a genuine “Star Wars” film now that she has attracted the focus of Hollywood?

She jests, “If given the chance, I’d make a ‘Star Wars’ film according to my vision entirely. But realistically, such an opportunity may not materialize completely.

Through “The Substance,” Fargeat has crafted a movie that pushes boundaries and demonstrates the reward of following one’s intuition, even in the face of industry doubt.

She confesses that at one point, nearly everyone had lost trust in the film. In such instances, self-doubt creeps in. However, she chose to recall why she initially agreed to star in this movie. Why she wanted to portray it with such intensity, brutality, and excessiveness.

Following numerous Oscar nods and the movie industry anticipating her next move, Fargeat is eagerly planning for what lies ahead. “The wind is at my back,” she declares. “I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Furthermore in this episode, titled “I’m Still Here,” leading actress Fernanda Torres delves into her groundbreaking nomination, shares heartfelt stories about her mother, and hints at the type of film she plans to work on next. Meanwhile, the panel engages in a lively discussion regarding the outcomes of the PGA, DGA, and the current frontrunner status of Sean Baker’s “Anora.” They also ponder over the potential implications for the forthcoming BAFTA and SAG Awards ceremonies.

Listen to previous podcast episodes

EbMaster Awards Circuit Podcast

The “Awards Circuit” podcast, led by Clayton Davis, Jazz Tangcay, Emily Longeretta, Jenelle Riley, and Michael Schneider (who also produces), provides a vibrant platform for engaging discussions about the finest films and television. Every episode, you’ll find captivating interviews with prominent movie and TV personalities, debates and analyses on award contests, and updates on industry news. Subscribe through Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.

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2025-02-14 04:18