Playing lead roles in the Twilight movies and receiving an Academy Award nomination while working with George Clooney didn’t make actress Anna Kendrick become conceited, as revealed by Lina Das.
Anna Kendrick reflects on the whirlwind of the past year, admitting that she still can’t quite wrap her head around it all. Despite being part of the frenzy surrounding the beloved Twilight series, she is grateful for the occasional moments of peace when she can go out without being followed by screaming fans. She jokes about feeling like she needs to watch her language around young admirers, likening it to visiting her grandmother.
In the Twilight movies, Anna plays Jessica Stanley, Bella Swan’s best friend who adds a spark of teenage drama to the storyline. However, in real life, Anna has formed a close friendship with Kristen Stewart, who plays Bella. She marvels at Kristen’s rise to stardom and the challenges that come with it, especially considering Kristen’s relationship with co-star Robert Pattinson.
Despite her success in the Twilight series, Anna gained critical acclaim for her role in ‘Up in the Air’ alongside George Clooney, earning her an Oscar nomination and a Best Breakout Star award. Looking back on the past year, she acknowledges the craziness that has come with juggling Twilight fame and critical acclaim. As the release of ‘Eclipse’ approaches, Anna knows things are only going to get more hectic.
Anna stars alongside George Clooney in the film Up in the Air.
At the MTV Movie Awards earlier this month, Bella and Edward from the Twilight series were reunited after facing new obstacles in the film Eclipse. The story follows Bella as she navigates romantic confusion and questions about her future, having to choose between Edward’s brooding charms and Jacob’s muscular appeal.
Anna, who plays a role in the movie, reflects on the adoration fans have for the actors, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner. She finds it a bit strange to see fans so in love with them, considering they feel like siblings to her now. If she had to choose between the two, she would root for Jacob because of his loyalty to Bella. However, she admits neither actor is her type, preferring someone a bit goofier and less intimidating.
Robert Pattinson, also known as R-Patz, has a massive following of fans, including the Twilight moms who have become enamored with him as much as their daughters. Anna acknowledges the growing trend of Twilight moms, finding it a bit strange but possibly a sweet way for mothers to connect with their daughters. She believes that Rob is genuinely shy and overwhelmed by the attention he receives, despite his good looks.
In conclusion, Anna sees Rob as just a regular guy, despite his heartthrob status among fans. She understands his appeal but wants to remind everyone that he is human after all.
Anna had a front-row seat to the frenzy of female admiration while working alongside George Clooney in the award-winning film Up in the Air. She recalls a hilarious incident where women passing by in a hotel lobby couldn’t help but swoon over George, leaving Anna amused and slightly embarrassed. Despite the chaos, Anna remained composed and even managed to deliver a witty line in the film where her character dismisses any romantic interest in Clooney’s character due to his age.
Reflecting on her experience, Anna describes George as both goofy and gentlemanly, teasing each other on set while also showing consideration for her need for a quiet environment during scenes. In the midst of all the female adoration for Clooney, Anna found herself graciously accepting nominations for Best Supporting Actress across various award ceremonies, ultimately losing out to Mo’Nique’s powerful performance in Precious. Anna’s humility shines through as she genuinely admires Mo’Nique’s talent and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to attend the Oscars, a dream she never thought would come true.
Hailing from Portland, Maine, Anna’s acting journey began at a young age, landing her a Tony nomination at just 12 years old for her role in the Broadway production of High Society. Living in New York with her father during the Broadway run, Anna fondly remembers the experience and the support she received from her family. Despite the accolades and nominations, Anna remains grounded, likening her Tony nomination to being allowed to “play in the cool kids’ club for a few hours.”
Growing up, I always appreciated having my father around to keep me grounded. Starting my career in theatre was a blessing, as doing eight shows a week really instilled a strong work ethic in me. I believe that working in film can be a bit more comfortable, but I personally wouldn’t have wanted to kickstart my career in that environment.
After being homeschooled by my dad during my time on Broadway, I returned to school in Maine feeling pretty much the same as I always had. I was quite shy and going to New York didn’t magically cure me of my insecurities. Dealing with classmates and their attention was tough, especially with one girl who seemed to enjoy tormenting me. But I like to think that those experiences helped shape my portrayal of Jessica in Twilight.
Moving to Los Angeles at 18 was a big step for me, and I made my movie debut shortly after in Camp. Playing a fast-talking debater in Rocket Science was nerve-wracking, as I would get sweaty palms between takes and vowed to never debate again.
The Twilight journey was something I never expected. It’s been amazing to be a part of such a successful franchise, and I remember feeling shocked at the premiere with director Catherine Hardwicke. We had no idea it would become such a phenomenon. Now, as I look ahead to upcoming projects like Scott Pilgrim vs The World, I feel grateful for the opportunities that have come my way.
I’ve developed a fondness for British culture over the years, enjoying films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. Working with Edgar Wright on Scott Pilgrim was a fantastic experience, as he made me feel comfortable and encouraged me to try new things on set.
When it comes to dating, I remember a humorous encounter with George Clooney giving me advice. He seemed protective of me, like an older brother, and emphasized the importance of being with someone who doesn’t feel threatened by you. With Twilight: Eclipse hitting cinemas soon, I’m excited for what the future holds in my career.