Key Highlights
- Rosamund Pike describes Dame Judi Dench as the finest actress she has ever worked with.
- Pike affectionately calls Dench a “mischief maker” and highlights her ability to seamlessly transition into character.
- The interview took place on BBC Radio 2, where Pike shared her admiration for both Dench and Christian Bale.
- Pike praised Bale’s dedication to his craft and noted his method acting approach.
Amidst the Stage: Rosamund Pike’s Praise for Judi Dench
Rosamund Pike, known for her roles in films like “Gone Girl” and “Saltburn,” recently sat down with comedian Romesh Ranganathan on BBC Radio 2. The conversation was a testament to the enduring impact of Dame Judi Dench’s acting career.
The Art of Shakespeare
“If you ever just want to just hear something short, listen to Judi Dench read a Shakespeare sonnet, just find one on YouTube, and it will move you to tears,” Pike stated. This quote encapsulates the awe-inspiring quality of Dench’s performances, particularly her ability to bring literary masterpieces to life with profound emotion.
From Stage to Screen
Pike has worked alongside Dame Judi in a 2009 London production of “Madame de Sade” and the 2002 James Bond film “Die Another Day.” Her admiration for Dench’s versatility is palpable. “The best actress I’ve ever worked with is Judi Dench, who’s such a mischief maker,” Pike noted. This description hints at Dench’s playful yet commanding presence both on stage and screen.
Character Transition
Dench’s ability to seamlessly transition into character is a hallmark of her craft. “She’s so delightful. She’s so, so good,” Pike added. This statement speaks volumes about the depth and authenticity of Dench’s performances, which often require actors to fully embody complex characters.
Ambition and Artistry
While praising Dench, Pike also highlighted another actor whose dedication is equally impressive: Christian Bale. “He’s another level,” she remarked. Their collaboration in the 2017 film “Hostiles” showcased the stark difference between their approaches to acting—Dench’s methodical and versatile performances versus Bale’s immersive technique.
Depth of Commitment
Pike elaborated on Bale’s dedication, emphasizing his profound commitment to his craft. “It’s just the level of truth, the level of commitment, integrity, truth,” she said. Pike’s observations underscore the importance of such depth in acting, which can elevate a performance beyond mere mimicry.