Cate Blanchett has spoken about the real extremes she went to for her critically acclaimed role as tyrannical conductor Lydia Tar in Todd Field’s psychological drama. Recently, in an interview, the Academy Award-winning actress confided that playing such a character was “once in a career,” referring to how she had been pushed to her absolute limits both physically and mentally.
It’s a performance that has taken nothing less than an obsession from Blanchett herself—to immerse herself into the world of classical music by learning to conduct an orchestra, to play the piano to perfection. She confessed to having vivid conducting dreams, waking up with her hands in the air many a time—a moment that also makes it onto the screen.
This heavy preparation and hectic shooting schedule had taken its severe toll on Blanchett’s personal life. She confessed that with the start of living the character, every minute her family and friends questioned her sanity. Notwithstanding the odds, the actress found solace in music which she said served as a source of relaxation after days of exhausting shootings.
The performance of Lydia Tar by Blanchett has been critically acclaimed throughout the world; the critical circle of reviewers has termed it one of the finest performances in her entire career. Moreover, the movie has raised much controversy over power, abuse, and the complexities associated with the art of classical music.
On the cusp of awards season, Blanchett has most definitely nailed her place for Best Actress. As she continues to thrill audiences with her bizarre talent, there is no doubt at all that Lydia Tar will turn out to be a role that defines her career for the years to come.
Image Courtesy – Instagram (Cate Blanchett)