Cate Blanchett discusses creative conflict and film financing challenges

Canadian actress Cate Blanchett arrived in Toronto for a comprehensive discussion about creative conflict on film sets, the challenges of making big-budget films, and the quest for funding for her six-time Oscar-nominated film "Carol." At the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), she supported Alfonso Cuarón's Apple TV+ show "Disclaimer" and Guy Maddin's film "Rumours." Blanchett's appearance at the Royal Alexandra Theatre garnered a standing ovation from fans who eagerly obtained rush tickets to the event.

During the conversation, born in Melbourne, Australia, Blanchett expressed her passion for performing theater in front of a live audience. She addressed the "streamers out there" that do not disclose viewership data, emphasizing the significance of knowing how many people have engaged with their work, not for monetization purposes, but to understand the impact of their creativity. This sentiment resonated with the audience, as she recounted her experiences in live theater, where every seat occupied or left carries an emotional weight for the performer.

Creative Disagreements and the Making of Carol

When probed about handling creative disagreements with directors, Blanchett recalled a moment on the set of Carol, where the director faced challenges with the lighting in a particular scene. Instead of imposing their solutions, the actors respected the director's space while proposing alternative approaches, highlighting the importance of polite and respectful disagreements in the creative process. This collaborative spirit is especially crucial when navigating the complexities of filmmaking.

Despite being a 2015 film, Carol faced a long and arduous journey to reach fruition. Blanchett revealed that it took five years and multiple directors before the project found its way to the big screen. The difficulty in securing funding for a film centered on a romantic relationship between two women posed a significant hurdle. She underscored the industry’s hesitance to support such narratives, emphasizing the need for continued change regarding equity, inclusion, and sustainable filmmaking practices.