"That's the greatest sin a director can commit: to make a film simply because he wants to make a film. You have to want to make a film for other reasons — to say something, to tell a story, to show somebody's fate — but you can't want to make a film simply for the sake of it."
- Kieślowski
*Irene Jacob, The Double Life Of Veronique
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Juliette Binoche was the only actor Krzysztof Kieślowski had in mind for the lead character in "Three Colours: Blue" (1993). He had said to Binoche's agent that he wouldn't do the movie if she wasn't part of it. Binoche rejected Steven Spielberg's offer to star in "Jurassic Park" (1993) because she felt the story of 'Blue' was close to her.
Binoche had a friend who suffered a similar tragedy as her character in the movie. She had lost her kid and husband. Binoche had helped her recover from the loss. So, in a way, Binoche thought she had already prepared for the role in real life.
The one important advice Kieślowski had for her was: “No tears. Never any tears". Initially, Binoche doubted if it would work. But as the filming continued, she understood the reasoning behind Kieślowski's words.
P.S: On this day, 33 years ago, "Three Colours: Blue" (1993) premiered at the Telluride Film Festival, USA.
I too agree with Kieślowski that no one else could have nailed the role as Binoche did. This is such a subtle performance and a masterclass on how to play a depressed character.
I have made this video by compiling some of Binoche's best moments from the movie. I hope you enjoy it.