Steven Spielberg and Ruby Barnhill: Inside The BFG’s Magical World
Stepping into an interview with a living legend like Steven Spielberg is an experience I could have only dreamed of. The moment the news arrived that we would have the incredible opportunity to speak with him, alongside the enchanting young star Ruby Barnhill, a wave of excitement, anticipation, and a touch of disbelief washed over me. My mind immediately began to race, pondering what such an iconic filmmaker would be like, what profound insights he might share, and the burning questions I yearned to ask. It was a privilege of a lifetime, and the anticipation was palpable.
Our scheduled interview with Steven Spielberg and Ruby Barnhill marked the vibrant beginning of our day. We dove headfirst into the discussion, eager to uncover the magic behind Disney’s “The BFG,” and the experience was, without exaggeration, truly amazing. The atmosphere was immediately set by the warm, genuine rapport between Mr. Spielberg and Ruby. As they entered the room, he gently placed his hand on her shoulder, a gesture that spoke volumes about their collaborative journey and mutual respect.
Their interaction exuded an almost fatherly or grandfatherly warmth, reflecting the deep bond forged during the filmmaking process. Both were beaming, radiating pure joy and a sense of shared accomplishment. This palpable connection underscored the heart of “The BFG” – a story of an unlikely friendship that blossoms into something truly special. Ruby Barnhill, in particular, shone with an infectious sweetness and authenticity that captivated everyone present. She is undoubtedly a young talent to watch, possessing a natural grace and profound understanding of her role, even at such a tender age.
Unveiling the Magic: Steven Spielberg and Ruby Barnhill on “The BFG”
The conversation quickly turned to the making of “The BFG,” a magical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved classic. Mr. Spielberg shared a fascinating anecdote about the arduous, eight-month-long search for the perfect Sophie. He admitted he was nearing a point of compromise, almost resigning himself to casting someone who didn’t quite capture the essence he envisioned for the character. Then, Ruby Barnhill’s audition tape arrived. He recounted how, at that precise moment, watching her on screen, he knew instantly that he had found his Sophie. It was a revelation that deeply touched his heart, making him exceptionally excited.
He vividly described the profound impact Ruby’s audition had on him, stating that his life, in a significant way, changed for the better from that moment forward. This pivotal discovery occurred while he was simultaneously filming “Bridge of Spies,” a testament to his dedication and keen eye for talent. He recalled having to pause production briefly, allowing himself to fully savor the overwhelming excitement and relief of finding the ideal young actress to bring Sophie’s adventurous spirit to life. This meticulous casting process highlights Spielberg’s unwavering commitment to authenticity and his remarkable ability to identify the unique spark that makes a performance truly extraordinary.
Ruby, with her bright eyes and infectious enthusiasm, then shared her own exhilarating experience upon learning she had landed the coveted role. Her excitement was palpable, radiating through her words. Interestingly, her own father also played a role in the film, a detail she found “so cool.” She fondly recalled the surreal experience of going to the cinema to see “The BFG” and hearing strangers discuss the movie, completely unaware that the girl sitting among them was the very Sophie they were watching on screen. This glimpse into her nascent celebrity offered a charming perspective on her journey.
When asked about the experience of working alongside a titan like Steven Spielberg, Ruby offered a remarkably sweet and insightful answer. She spoke eloquently about the invaluable lessons she learned from him, extending far beyond the realm of acting. Mr. Spielberg, she explained, guided her not only in refining her craft but also in navigating life itself. She highlighted a particular lesson about embracing mistakes, understanding that they are not only acceptable but often necessary and instrumental to the creative process of filmmaking. This philosophy, she revealed, profoundly influenced her approach to both acting and personal growth.
Mr. Spielberg, in a heartwarming affirmation of this sentiment, gently interjected, clarifying his personal philosophy: “I don’t call them mistakes, I call them happy accidents.” This phrase perfectly encapsulates his visionary approach to filmmaking, where unexpected moments of improvisation and unforeseen challenges are often embraced as opportunities for creative breakthroughs. It’s a philosophy that empowers actors and crew alike, fostering an environment where experimentation is encouraged, and perfection is understood not as an absence of error, but as the culmination of countless inspired decisions, sometimes born from the unexpected.
Steven Spielberg’s Enduring Legacy: The Power of Cinema Across Generations
One of the most profound moments of the interview came when Mr. Spielberg was asked about the enduring impact his films have had on multiple generations. His face lit up with a genuine happiness that was truly inspiring. His response was nothing short of amazing, offering a window into the mind of a filmmaker who deeply understands and respects the immense power of his craft.
I have a very large extended family. And I didn’t even understand when I was first starting out making movies about the power that film has. I wasn’t really appreciative or even aware of the outreach of cinema until I was actually older. I thought Jaws was just a freak of nature, that that would never happen again. And then when ET suddenly happened and lightning suddenly struck twice, I realized that cinema, outlives the filmmakers. And that was everything and becomes a part of the extended family of people from all walks of life who speak different languages and believe in different things, ’cause sometimes movies come along that make you see the same thing with the same feeling. And it doesn’t matter what, what languages we share or who we are and what our backgrounds are, sometimes a feeling can be communicated all over the world without any signage.
That power that film has is something that intimidates me and I respect it a lot, but it also scares me, because it’s pretty awesome when that happens.
Mr. Spielberg’s reflection on the longevity and universal appeal of cinema offered a humbling perspective. He spoke of film as a medium that transcends creators, becoming an integral part of humanity’s collective extended family. His early career saw successes like “Jaws” perceived as singular phenomena. However, with the monumental global impact of “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” he recognized a deeper truth: movies possess an intrinsic power to outlive their creators, bridging cultural divides and fostering shared emotional experiences regardless of language, background, or belief system. This ability to communicate profound feelings universally, without the need for explicit translation, is what truly defines the magic of cinema. It’s a power he both respects and finds intimidating, acknowledging its immense responsibility.
A Dream Come True: Steven Spielberg and Disney’s “The BFG”
“The BFG” holds a special place in Steven Spielberg’s illustrious career, marking his first directorial collaboration with Walt Disney Pictures. He candidly expressed the profound impact Disney had on his own childhood, shaping his imagination and nurturing his burgeoning interest in storytelling. This project was, in many ways, a full-circle moment for the iconic director, allowing him to contribute to the very legacy that inspired him. His passion for bringing Roald Dahl’s enchanting world to life through the Disney lens was evident, creating a truly memorable cinematic experience that intertwines the whimsical artistry of Disney with Spielberg’s masterful storytelling.
Perhaps the most heartwarming moment of our entire conversation was when Mr. Spielberg spoke passionately about the universal need for more hugs. It was a simple yet profound message delivered with such genuine conviction that I, along with everyone in the room, felt an overwhelming urge to embrace him right then and there. This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the spirit of “The BFG,” a film that celebrates unexpected friendship, understanding, and the power of connection.
“I just want people to understand how important it is to both give and receive hugs,” Spielberg said. “It doesn’t matter how different the person looks or how tall they are or how short they are or what color they are or what language they speak or what their different beliefs are, we all need to hug each other. And we have to hug each other more when we’re so different from each other.”
This powerful message of unconditional acceptance and human connection resonates deeply, especially in today’s world. It’s a sentiment so vital and inspiring that one wishes it could be broadcast from every rooftop, echoed across every corner of the globe. While physically achieving that might be a logistical challenge, the essence of his words can indeed be shared and embraced by all of us. Mr. Spielberg’s call to action is clear and timeless: to foster empathy, break down barriers, and embrace our shared humanity through simple, heartfelt gestures of affection. From a cinematic visionary to the world at large: HUG EACH OTHER!
So, I extend this challenge to each of you: take a moment today to genuinely hug the people you love. Share your joy, your warmth, and your connection with them. Let’s actively Spread Joy! in our communities, remembering that a simple hug can bridge gaps and brighten spirits in ways words sometimes cannot.
Discovering the World of “The BFG”: A Roald Dahl, Walt Disney, and Steven Spielberg Collaboration
For those eager to delve deeper into the enchanting world brought to life by this unparalleled collaboration, “The BFG” represents a landmark cinematic event. It’s where the creative genius of three of the world’s greatest storytellers – the imaginative literary master Roald Dahl, the pioneering animation visionary Walt Disney, and the incomparable cinematic maestro Steven Spielberg – finally converged to adapt Dahl’s cherished classic for the big screen. Directed with heart and spectacle by Spielberg, Disney’s “The BFG” embarks on the imaginative journey of Sophie, a curious young girl, and the Big Friendly Giant who introduces her to the wondrous, yet sometimes perilous, Giant Country.
The titular BFG, magnificently portrayed by three-time Tony Award® and two-time Olivier Award winner Mark Rylance, stands apart from his colossal brethren. While undeniably a giant, measuring a towering 24-feet tall with enormous, expressive ears and an uncanny sense of smell, he is also endearingly kind-hearted and, for the most part, a solitary soul. He stands in stark contrast to the other inhabitants of Giant Country – monstrous figures like Bloodbottler (played by Bill Hader) and Fleshlumpeater (Jemaine Clement). These formidable giants are twice the BFG’s size and considerably more terrifying, with a notorious appetite for humans. The gentle BFG, however, prefers the distinctly unappetizing Snozzcumber and the effervescent Frobscottle.
Upon her unexpected arrival in Giant Country, Sophie, a precocious 10-year-old from London, initially experiences fear towards the mysterious giant who has spirited her away to his cavernous abode. Yet, as she spends more time with him, her apprehension gives way to understanding. She quickly comes to realize that the BFG is in fact a remarkably gentle and charming companion. Having never encountered a giant before, Sophie is filled with a multitude of questions, sparking an enchanting dialogue between the unlikely pair.
Their adventures take them to Dream Country, where the BFG meticulously collects dreams, storing them in jars before sending them out to children across the world. Through this magical journey, he teaches Sophie about the profound mystery and wonder embedded within dreams. Both Sophie and the BFG, having lived largely solitary lives until their paths crossed, swiftly develop a deep and mutual affection. However, Sophie’s presence in Giant Country eventually attracts the unwelcome attention of the other, more menacing giants, who become increasingly bothersome and pose a significant threat. Faced with this growing peril, Sophie and the BFG decide to embark on a daring journey to London. Their mission: to warn the Queen (played by Penelope Wilton) of the precarious giant situation. First, however, they must convince Her Majesty and her loyal maid, Mary (Rebecca Hall), that giants are indeed a very real and present danger. Together, this extraordinary trio devises an ingenious plan to rid the world of the menacing giants once and for all, weaving a tale of courage, friendship, and imaginative problem-solving.
The film boasts an exceptional creative team. Directed by three-time Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg, renowned for masterpieces like “Bridge of Spies,” “Schindler’s List,” and ”Saving Private Ryan,” the screenplay was skillfully adapted by Melissa Mathison, celebrated for her work on “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial” and “The Black Stallion,” based on Roald Dahl’s enduring best-selling novel. The cast features the formidable talents of Mark Rylance, newcomer Ruby Barnhill, Penelope Wilton, Jemaine Clement, Rebecca Hall, Rafe Spall, and Bill Hader, each bringing their unique artistry to this magnificent production.
Produced by Spielberg, Frank Marshall (“Jurassic World”) and Sam Mercer (“Snow White and the Huntsman”), with Kathleen Kennedy (“Star Wars: The Force Awakens”), John Madden (“Shakespeare in Love”), Kristie Macosko Krieger (“Bridge of Spies”), Michael Siegel (“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”), Frank Smith and Naia Cucukov serving as executive producers, “The BFG” is a testament to collaborative filmmaking at its finest. The film premiered in U.S. theaters on July 1, 2016, a year that poignantly marked the 100th anniversary of Roald Dahl’s birth, adding another layer of significance to this cinematic tribute.
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