Margaret Qualley’s experience filming *The Substance* has been nothing short of transformative, both personally and professionally. Originally anticipated to be a modest art-house project, the film has surprisingly blossomed into a box office success, catching audiences off guard. The film’s unexpected acclaim has positioned Qualley and her co-star, the legendary Demi Moore, in the spotlight, generating significant buzz during awards season. Moore, having nearly four decades of experience in Hollywood, recently secured her first major award, marking a notable milestone in her illustrious career. This growth feels momentous not just for Moore, but also for Qualley, who is celebrating the opportunity to collaborate with such a storied actress.
Qualley reflects on the intense five-month shooting schedule as both a rigorous challenge and a rewarding endeavor. Engaging with host Josh Horowitz on *Happy Sad Confused*, she articulated her appreciation for the effort put forth by both herself and Moore, acknowledging the emotional and physical toll that the filming demanded. The rigorous nature of the production called for extensive prosthetic applications that were not only demanding but could be daunting for an actor. For many performers, stepping into prosthetic makeup can often lead to a disconnection from their identity, but for Qualley, it became an exploration of darker themes related to identity and societal expectations.
One of the highlights of this tumultuous journey has been the friendship that blossomed between Qualley and Moore. Recognizing the older actress’s wisdom, Qualley spoke highly of their collaboration, stating, “I learned so much from her.” This friendship appears to have added a sense of grounding amidst the chaos of their demanding roles, offering Qualley not just a mentor but also a confidante. The shared experience in navigating the challenges of the film has fortified their bond, illustrating the power of collaboration in overcoming artistic hurdles.
In *The Substance*, Qualley faces some of her greatest fears, particularly regarding physical appearance and acceptance within the industry. She candidly shared her apprehension about stepping into a role that contradicted her previous work ethos. “It was super terrifying to lean into all the things that I was told would make people hate me,” she reflected. This decision to embrace discomfort is not just a testament to her bravery but also an important commentary on the pressures placed on women in the entertainment industry. The notion of sacrificing beauty for art raises pertinent questions on the values many actors grapple with behind the scenes.
However, this transformation did come at a cost. Qualley candidly revealed the physical toll the prosthetics took on her wellbeing, leading to extended recovery time. Interestingly, she recalls one of the film’s initial scenes—a shot where her face was omitted—offering insight into the extreme lengths to which actors will go for their craft. Qualley’s laughter as she recounts the experience highlights a resilient spirit that thrives on shared struggles, emphasizing that vulnerability can lead to deeper insights and connections both on and off-screen.
Through her experience with *The Substance*, Margaret Qualley is not only redefining her acting journey but also sparking conversations around empowerment, vulnerability, and resilience in the film industry. As she prepares for the Oscars, her story serves as a poignant reminder that success often arises through collaboration, courage, and authenticity.