Hollywood star Dakota Johnson is making waves at the prestigious Karlovy Vary Film Festival, where she is set to receive the coveted President’s Award. During her time in the beautiful Czech spa town, Johnson shared insights about her upcoming directorial debut, a project that holds a special place in her heart. This film is a collaboration with her fellow actor from “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” Vanessa Burghardt, who Johnson describes as “an incredible autistic actress.”
In an interview with Variety, Johnson expressed her sentiments regarding her directorial debut, stating, “I’ve always felt that I’m not ready to direct a feature. I don’t have the confidence, but, with her, I feel very protective and I know her very well.” This sense of familiarity and connection with Burghardt has encouraged her to take the plunge into directing, as she envisions a world that she believes should be authentically portrayed. “I just won’t let anybody else do it. That’s the real answer,” she affirmed.
Alongside receiving the President’s Award, the “Fifty Shades of Grey” actress is showcasing her talents at the festival with two remarkable films. She stars in Celine Song’s romantic drama “Materialists,” alongside big names like Chris Evans and Pedro Pascal. Additionally, she produced the Cannes sensation “Splitsville” under her production company, TeaTime Pictures. Johnson portrays a matchmaker in “Materialists,” a role that resonates with her passion for fostering positive collaborations on set.
In discussing her role as a producer, Johnson emphasized the importance of healthy collaboration: “If there’s not a healthy collaboration, if it’s not a good match, then it’s not a good match.” She articulated her commitment to avoiding toxic sets that hinder creativity. “I can’t waste time on toxic sets anymore,” she stated, highlighting her desire to work in environments that are fun, fulfilling, and healthy. Johnson pointed out that “we all know what a toxic set is by now,” and she remains dedicated to creating a positive atmosphere where artists can thrive.
Having navigated a diverse array of films ranging from indie projects like “Am I Ok?” to major studio productions like “Madame Web,” Johnson has a unique perspective on success in filmmaking. She remarked, “I think that the barometer for that is shifting right now.” With fluctuating box office numbers, she believes that true success lies in the audience's emotional connection to a film. “Honestly, it’s a success just getting a movie finished,” she added, acknowledging the challenges filmmakers face in today’s industry.
Looking ahead, Johnson expressed her excitement about tackling new roles, particularly a “psychopath” or an action film. “I’m open to anything. Certain things just have to align,” she remarked. Recently, she wrapped up filming the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s best-selling psychological thriller “Verity,” directed by Michael Showalter. Johnson discussed the complexities of adapting beloved books, noting that while they can be challenging, they also provide an opportunity for creative expression.
As Dakota Johnson continues to evolve in her career, she remains committed to producing meaningful films that resonate with audiences. With exciting projects on the horizon, including a mysterious upcoming venture, fans can look forward to seeing how this multifaceted artist continues to shape her legacy in Hollywood. Stay tuned for more updates on Johnson’s journey in the film industry!
