Filmworld
Lily James read up on Mahatma Gandhi for 'Cinderella' role
Los Angeles, Feb 24
For her role as Ella in
Disney's forthcoming movie "Cinderella", actress Lily James prepared
herself by indulging in yoga as well as reading on people like Indian
icon Mahatma Gandhi, known for his non-violence movement against British
rule.
In a promotional interview for "Cinderella", which
releases in India March 20, James has opened up about how she prepared
for her role as Ella, who, even under the cruellest of circumstances,
manages to maintain goodness, purity and positivity.
"I
started taking horseriding lessons six weeks before shooting began, and I
tried to start living healthily, doing a lot of yoga to try and get the
kind of posture and grace and elegance that Ella would have had.
"I
also did a lot of research on spirituality and read up on people like
Gandhi who have been able to deal with life in a way that I knew I never
could. But I wanted to make Ella seem as real as possible and didn’t
want to just play that state," said the actress, known for her role as
Lady Rose in the show "Downton Abbey".
The story of Cinderella has been told and retold over the years. So what makes her movie different?
"What’s
different about our film is that the characters and storylines have
really been beefed up, and it’s not just about Cinderella being rescued
by a prince, but it’s about two people who are perfect for each other,
who are going to have courage in being kind together and who are going
to be very happy together," she said.
Also, the idea of playing a "princess" seemed "magical" to James.
"It’s
a dream role because Cinderella is so special and kind and unique.
Plus, we have a great opportunity to create a whole life beyond the
fairytale, which is already so beautiful as it is, but making it richer
and giving each character their own specific back stories.
"I
liked the fact that Ken Branagh (director Kenneth Branagh) wanted to
keep it light and magical, much like a fairytale," she added.
However, she admits "it was a little terrifying" to play the role at first.
"Everyone
has their own perception of 'Cinderella' -- whether it’s from the
animated film or from the storybooks, so you have a big act to follow,"
she said.
What made the experience even better was Cate Blanchett playing her stepmother.
"Cate
Blanchett is one of my favourite actresses ever, so I was very excited.
I feel so lucky to have had the chance to work with her. She’s just so
incredible to watch, so incredibly alive and versatile."