Maggie Gyllenhaal Reveals Why Jessie Buckley Excels as ‘The Bride’ Heroine

Maggie Gyllenhaal has revealed her thoughts on Jessie Buckley’s portrayal in the upcoming film The Bride!, which opens on March 6. This fresh interpretation of a familiar character, often referred to as the Bride of Frankenstein, distinguishes the character simply as “The Bride.” Buckley’s impressive performance in Hamnet has garnered her considerable acclaim, further enhancing anticipation for The Bride!

The Bride! and Its Unique Vision

Gyllenhaal, who wrote and directed the film, spoke about her connection to Buckley from their collaboration in The Lost Daughter. She expressed a deep admiration for Buckley’s talent, stating, “I think we both knew when we worked together that we were kindred spirits.”

When writing the role, Gyllenhaal found herself compelled to create a character that would resonate with audiences. “I had to keep myself from writing this part for her because I thought if I write it for her, maybe I’ll limit what it could be,” she explained. Ultimately, she embraced Buckley as the sole choice for the role, citing her ability to portray a range of emotions as vital to the character of The Bride.

The Character’s Journey

• The Bride returns after not being able to express herself in life.
• She is depicted as seeking to understand who she is after her resurrection.
• The theme of identity is central, challenging traditional narratives focused on male characters.

Gyllenhaal emphasized the importance of this journey, noting it reflects a common human experience. The character’s lack of self-awareness raises important questions about identity and purpose, making her relatable to many viewers.

Stylistic Influences and Setting

The film draws inspiration from classic films such as Bonnie and Clyde, Metropolis, and Wild at Heart. Gyllenhaal aims to subvert traditional cinematic themes while blending different influences. She described the setting of The Bride! as taking place in the 1930s, but with a distinct punk twist.

“It’s the ’30s by way of downtown New York, 1981, and now,” she noted. This creative vision allows the film to explore contrasting ideas of fantasy versus reality, particularly within the context of love and relationships.

The Punk Element

Gyllenhaal characterized the film as “punk,” reflecting a celebration of unconventional storytelling. She collaborated with actors, including Christian Bale, who contributed to this punk aesthetic by sharing images of figures like Sid Vicious.

As the release date approaches, excitement builds for The Bride! This innovative take on a classic character promises to deliver a unique cinematic experience that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.