Entertainment: In a development set to excite cinephiles, Hollywood star Dakota Johnson has revealed her intentions to step behind the camera for her feature directorial debut. The announcement came during a recent interaction with reporters at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, where the actor shared insights into her upcoming venture.
Johnson, known for her roles in the “Fifty Shades” franchise and “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” expressed her deep personal connection to the project. She confirmed that the film will star Vanessa Burghardt, who portrayed her daughter in “Cha Cha Real Smooth.” “I think I will direct a feature, a very small one, hopefully soon. And it’s really close to my heart and very close to TeaTime (her production banner). We’re making it with Vanessa Burghardt, who played my daughter in ‘Cha Cha Real Smooth’. She’s an incredible autistic actress,” Johnson stated, highlighting the significant role Burghardt will play.
The 35-year-old actor further elaborated on her decision to direct, citing a profound sense of protectiveness towards Burghardt. “I’ve always felt that I’m not ready to direct a feature. I don’t have the confidence. But with her, I feel very protective, and I know her very well, and… I just won’t let anybody else do it,” she added, underscoring the unique bond and trust that led her to take on this new role.
This isn’t Johnson’s first foray into directing; she previously helmed Coldplay’s music video “Cry Cry Cry” and the short film “Loser Baby.” Her production banner, TeaTime, is focused on projects that are “either visually or emotionally provocative.” Johnson clarified that this doesn’t mean provocative in a sexual sense, but rather content that stands apart from typical streaming offerings. “A lot of them are also female characters. So it’s female-centric films where the woman is different from what you see, and complex and nuanced, and maybe an anti-hero that you love,” she explained, outlining the vision for her production house.
Johnson’s latest film, “Materialists,” which also features Chris Evans and Pedro Pascal, premiered on June 13 to positive reviews, with Celine Song particularly praising Johnson’s performance. With this new directorial endeavor, Johnson is poised to make a significant impact not just as an actor, but also as a storyteller from a fresh perspective.
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