Sharon Stone has recently reflected on her unique experiences during the filming of the 1998 science fiction film *Sphere*, where her long-standing interest in deep-sea diving proved invaluable. In an insightful interview with Keke Palmer for Variety’s *Actors on Actors*, the 68-year-old actress opened up about the challenges and intricacies of working in an underwater environment.
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*Sphere*, directed by Barry Levinson, tells the gripping tale of a group of scientists who stumble upon an enormous spacecraft, eerily buried beneath 1,000 feet of the Pacific Ocean. The film’s gripping premise necessitated extensive underwater scenes, which required the cast to adapt to life in a dive tank for over five months.
Stone disclosed that her experience as a deep-sea rescue diver set her apart from her fellow cast members. As the only actor with a diving licence before production began, she had a considerable advantage when it came to performing in the dive tank. “We wore the bell diving suits, which have a bubble around the head,” she explained, detailing the suit’s design and function.
The process wasn’t as simple as merely donning a suit and diving in. Stone elaborated on the logistical aspects of filming underwater, stating, “You have to be weighted so that you stay down, and your oxygen is also on a hose to the surface. It wasn’t just our tanks; we also had a supplemental hose.” This careful planning ensured that the actors remained safe while creatively engaging with their roles.
The physical demands of shooting underwater were significant, with Stone describing a typical day on set as spending seven to eight hours submerged. Communication during filming was possible through microphones installed within the diving helmets, allowing for interactions despite being in a challenging environment.
Interestingly, Stone’s diving expertise provided her with additional confidence amidst the intensity of the filming process. “It worked out for me because I have a deep-sea rescue diving licence. But none of the rest of the actors did,” she noted, implying that her skills gave her a certain level of comfort that her colleagues lacked.
Beyond *Sphere*, Stone’s conversation with Palmer also touched on the acclaimed HBO series *Euphoria*, directed by Levinson’s son, Sam. Stone praised the show, calling it “the greatest show on television.” Reflecting on its narrative approach, she mentioned the significance of showcasing the evolution of its young characters as they grapple with various issues, including addiction and facing the complexities of adulthood.
With a candid perspective, Stone shared, “We’ve seen them turn into young adults. We’ve seen them turn into full-on drug dealers. And I’ve gone through it in my family.” Her personal connection to the show’s themes adds a layer of depth to her appreciation for its storytelling.
Stone believes that *Euphoria* carries a critical relevance, suggesting that it should be introduced in high schools and viewed by parents. “As a mum, I love it,” she said, indicating her strong endorsement of the show’s narrative impact.
Sharon Stone’s reflections not only underscore her remarkable adaptability as an actress but also highlight the diverse interests that can significantly influence one’s professional journey. Her experiences while shooting *Sphere* and her insights into *Euphoria* provide a fascinating glimpse into the personal connections actors can have with their projects, merging their passions with their craft.