Rooney Mara Says Making “Bucking Fastard” with Sister Kate Mara Was a ‘Once-in-a-Lifetime’ Experience

Rooney Mara and Kate Mara, renowned for their individual acting prowess, make an impressive joint appearance in the film “Bucking Fastard,” which recently premiered at the prestigious Venice Film Festival. This ambitious project, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Werner Herzog, showcases the sisters as Jean and Joan Holbrooke—twins whose deep, almost telepathic connection allows them to speak in unison, share dreams, and even fall for the same man.

The film’s concept captivated the sisters, but Rooney, 41, acknowledged the challenges presented by the role. During a press conference on September 3, she expressed feeling “daunted” by the idea of portraying two characters who are essentially the same individual. Nevertheless, she quickly recognised that their shared childhood and lifelong bond provided an invaluable foundation. “There was just an unspoken world between us that we didn’t have to work very hard to create,” she explained. Once they established their rhythm, Rooney expressed how exhilarating the experience became, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Echoing her sister’s sentiments, 43-year-old Kate noted that once they mastered the unique cadence of their dialogue, their performance began to take on a musical quality. “It felt almost like a song,” she remarked, highlighting the effortless nature of their collaboration. The sisters conveyed that the chemistry they developed on set stemmed from years spent together, both in their personal lives and in the acting world.

“Bucking Fastard” is described by the Venice Film Festival as a narrative exploring the profound bond between the twins. Their extraordinary relationship prompts varied reactions from the world around them, featuring themes of adulation and exploitation, as well as insight into societal perceptions filtered through media and the legal system. The film includes performances from other notable actors, including Orlando Bloom and Domhnall Gleeson.

Reflecting on their early experiences in the acting industry, Kate recalled how their bond strengthened as they navigated auditions and the ups and downs of their burgeoning careers. In a past interview, she noted that prior to Rooney’s entry into acting, she felt isolated in her own journey. However, their subsequent experiences of living together during their early careers fostered a unique companionship. “So when she became an actor, we actually lived together in my apartment for the first year or two,” Kate shared. This close proximity during a tumultuous time in their lives allowed them to relate over shared emotions and expectations inherent to the profession, as well as the occasional harsh critique.

Both sisters have made significant marks in their individual careers; Kate is equally recognised for her role in “Fantastic Four” and the acclaimed series “House of Cards,” while Rooney has received two Oscar nominations for her performances in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” and “Carol.” Their combined talents and the emotional depth they share enhance the film’s portrayal of their characters’ extraordinary connection.

Set against the backdrop of the Venice Film Festival, which runs until September 12, “Bucking Fastard” finds itself in esteemed company among this year’s competition. As viewers and critics alike observe the sisters’ dramatic performance, the film underlines the uniqueness of their sibling relationship and the exploration of themes that resonate with family dynamics and public perception.

Artistic collaborations between family members are rare in the entertainment industry, making the Mara sisters’ partnership all the more special. Their shared commitment to the craft and to each other shines through in their performances, which promise to captivate audiences beyond Venice.

As the 83rd Venice International Film Festival showcases “Bucking Fastard,” the Mara sisters not only highlight their extraordinary talent but also celebrate the strength of familial bonds that transcend the limitations of traditional storytelling. Their remarkable journey will likely inspire viewers and provoke discussions about the intricacies of sibling relationships, personal ambition, and the artistry that emerges from genuine connection. In an industry often marked by competition, the Mara sisters serve as a reminder of the powerful narratives that can arise from love and collaboration.