Elisabeth Moss, the talented actress known for her roles in “Mad Men” and “The Handmaid’s Tale,” recently shared her insights on the timeless theme of ‘Constantly Chasing Youth.’ In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Moss discussed her latest project, a dark comedy film titled “Shell,” which delves into the pressures of staying young in the entertainment industry.
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The film revolves around Moss’s character, an actress in her 40s, who is advised by her management team to undergo cosmetic procedures to boost her career prospects. She embarks on a risky new treatment offered by a character played by Kate Hudson, unaware of the dire consequences. Moss revealed that the film is not intended as a preachy commentary on beauty and aging but rather a thrilling and entertaining exploration of extreme measures people may take in pursuit of youth.
Moss emphasised that the concept of chasing youth and beauty is not a novel idea, citing its prevalence throughout history. She pointed out that the theme has been a global fascination for thousands of years, highlighting the enduring nature of society’s obsession with youthfulness. The actress expressed her enjoyment in portraying a character grappling with these issues and the lengths to which individuals may go to defy ageing.
In a departure from her usual serious roles, Moss shared that in real life, she is far more light-hearted and quirky than the characters she portrays on screen. Despite her penchant for dramatic acting, Moss revealed her interest in exploring comedic genres in the future, particularly romantic comedies reminiscent of the classics from past decades. She expressed a desire to participate in projects that offer a balance of light-heartedness and strong storytelling.
Collaborating with director Max Minghella, with whom she previously worked on “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Moss described their seamless partnership on “Shell.” As a producer on the film, Moss appreciated their shared vision and collaborative approach, which prioritised storytelling and authenticity over ego. She praised Minghella for his directorial style and highlighted their mutual passion for creating compelling narratives on screen.
Reflecting on her career trajectory, Moss acknowledged the challenges faced by actresses in Hollywood and the industry’s expectations regarding age and appearance. Through her roles and choice of projects, she hopes to challenge stereotypes and offer a nuanced portrayal of women navigating complex societal pressures. Moss’s commitment to authentic storytelling and diversity in roles underscores her dedication to advancing representation in entertainment.
As “Shell” prepares for its release in select theatres and on digital platforms, Moss’s nuanced performance and the film’s exploration of ageism and beauty standards are poised to spark conversations among audiences. With her versatile talent and unwavering dedication to her craft, Moss continues to captivate viewers with her compelling portrayals and commitment to pushing boundaries in storytelling. Stay tuned for more updates on Moss’s career and upcoming projects as she continues to make an indelible mark in the world of film and television.