In a captivating sit-down interview, Jenna Ortega, the rising star, and Tim Burton, the iconic director, revealed the intriguing dynamics of their professional relationship and the creative process behind the hit series Wednesday. This marks their first major interview together, a moment filled with anticipation and a tinge of nervousness as they discuss their collaborative journey.
Ortega, known for her role as the darkly humorous Wednesday Addams, carries a mix of fidgetiness and a piercing gaze reminiscent of her character. In contrast, Burton, with his trademark wild hair and whimsical demeanor, takes his time to articulate his thoughts. They both acknowledge their shared discomfort with traditional promotional interviews, hinting at past experiences that have shaped their approach to public interactions.
As they settle into a drab conference room in New York, the contrast between their vibrant personalities and the sterile environment is striking. Ortega, at just 22, has quickly risen to fame through roles in horror films like X and Scream VI, leading to her breakout performance in Wednesday, a Netflix sensation that follows the enigmatic Addams Family teen as she navigates the challenges of adolescence at Nevermore Academy. Burton, at 66, has enjoyed a resurgence in his career, particularly with the success of both Wednesday and the Beetlejuice franchise, which he also directs.
During the interview, the duo shared exciting news: Wednesday has been renewed for a third season, and discussions for a potential spinoff series are already underway. They express enthusiasm about the upcoming second season, which premieres on August 6. Both Ortega and Burton delve into the challenges and growth they experienced during the first season, reflecting on how they’ve evolved as collaborators.
Burton explains his initial fascination with creating a television series, emphasizing the opportunity to explore a character as complex as Wednesday. He shares, “As much as a middle-aged man could feel like a teenage Wednesday Addams, I feel those things.” Ortega adds that Wednesday stands out as a protagonist who can navigate her emotional landscape without typical character arcs, making her uniquely intriguing.
Ortega reminisces about auditioning for a Wednesday animated film at 14, a moment that sparked her desire to embody the character. Burton’s belief that Ortega embodies the essence of Wednesday is evident, as he describes her performance as akin to that of a silent film actor, focusing on the subtleties rather than mere dialogue.
As their conversation shifts to the perils of fame, Ortega openly discusses the challenges she's faced, including public scrutiny and harsh criticism. She reflects on a particularly distressing incident where she was verbally attacked in public, highlighting the darker side of celebrity culture. Burton empathizes, sharing his protective instincts towards Ortega, especially given the media's propensity to misinterpret statements.
Ortega admits her perfectionism often leads to sleepless nights as she critiques her performances, revealing a vulnerability that resonates with many artists. Yet, she recognizes the importance of balancing self-critique with acceptance, a struggle that both she and Burton navigate in their careers.
As their collaboration continues to deepen, both Ortega and Burton acknowledge a newfound shorthand in their communication. They appreciate the creative freedom that comes from understanding each other’s artistic visions, with Ortega’s keen attention to detail enhancing the authenticity of Wednesday's character.
Ortega’s commitment to her role is evident as she discusses the physicality of portraying Wednesday, even down to her posture and the intentional avoidance of blinking. This precision reflects the dedication both artists have towards their craft, ensuring the character remains true to her essence.
Looking ahead, Ortega expresses a desire to explore new projects while staying true to her artistic roots. She emphasizes the need for studios to embrace originality and creativity, particularly in appealing to the elusive Gen Z audience. Burton echoes her sentiments, advocating for artistic freedom over commercial pressures.
As they conclude their conversation, both Ortega and Burton leave us with a sense of excitement for what lies ahead. Their partnership is a testament to the beauty of collaboration in the creative arts, as they continue to push boundaries and redefine storytelling through the lens of Wednesday.
With a shared commitment to authenticity and a passion for their craft, Jenna Ortega and Tim Burton are poised to captivate audiences for years to come, both in Wednesday and beyond.
