Christine Taylor recently reflected on her experience working alongside her husband, Ben Stiller, in the 2001 comedy “Zoolander,” which is now celebrating its 25th anniversary. During a recent event marking the 50th anniversary of “Three’s Company,” Taylor, who is 55, shared her insights about the film and the unique opportunity she had to learn from Stiller while filming.
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Taylor and Stiller first crossed paths in 1999 while working on the television pilot “Heat Vision and Jack.” Their professional relationship flourished into a personal one, culminating in their wedding in May 2000. “Zoolander” marked their first collaboration on a feature film after their marriage. Reflecting on those early days, Taylor noted, “Oh my gosh. We had just gotten married. It was truly a master class for me.” Though she had prior experience in films, taking part in a project which featured Stiller both in front of and behind the camera was a new venture for her.
In “Zoolander,” Stiller plays Derek Zoolander, a not-so-bright but famous male model whose life takes an unexpected turn when he gets drawn into an assassination conspiracy against the Prime Minister of Malaysia. The film also stars Owen Wilson as Hansel, a fellow model, while Taylor portrays Matilda Jeffries, a journalist. Each character contributes to the film’s quirky and humorous narrative, making it a beloved cult classic over the years.
Taylor reminisced about a particular scene that left a significant impression on her. In a poignant moment, her character interacts with Derek and Hansel over tea, where they engage in a discussion that touches on childhood memories of iconic models. “I just remember that scene. It’s a classic scene of watching the way Ben and Owen worked,” she explained. “They would be themselves, normal Ben and Owen, and then they would immediately go into these characters that were so different from who they were.”
The actress acknowledged the invaluable lessons in comedy she absorbed during filming. “It was, as always, these lessons in comedy that I just continued to learn from all of the people that I’d worked with over the years, including my husband,” Taylor remarked. Her perspective highlights how her experiences on set not only contributed to her professional growth but also deepened her appreciation for the art of comedy.
As “Zoolander” reaches this milestone anniversary, Taylor is both proud and amazed by its enduring charm. “I can’t believe it’s 25 years, but it’s very exciting. It’s Zoolander. It’s iconic,” she stated. The film’s cultural significance is illusory, as it continues to resonate with audiences and remains a touchstone in the landscape of early 2000s comedy.
Over the years, Taylor and Stiller have continued to collaborate on various projects, showcasing a dynamic synergy that has also led to the growth of their family. The couple shares two children, Ella and Quinlin, and their personal and professional lives have often interwoven. They have prioritised creating a supportive environment for their children while navigating their careers in the entertainment industry.
The legacy of “Zoolander” is not just rooted in its humour and memorable performances but also in its exploration of themes related to fame, identity, and the absurdities of the fashion world. Taylor’s insights serve as a reminder of the creative spirit that fuels these collaborative endeavours, emphasizing how humour can bring people together.
As fans and new viewers celebrate this iconic film’s anniversary, Taylor’s reflections provide a compelling glimpse into the making of “Zoolander” and the rich tapestry of experiences shared with Stiller. Their partnership exemplifies the intersection of love and creativity, creating a lasting impact both on screen and in their personal lives.
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