**Haley Bennett Shines in ‘Virginia Woolf’s Night & Day’ Set for Theatrical Release on September 4**
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Actress Haley Bennett takes centre stage in the upcoming film, “Virginia Woolf’s Night & Day,” which is set to hit cinemas across the United States on September 4. This poignant adaptation explores the life of Katharine Hilbery, a woman who defies the restrictive societal norms of early 20th-century London in pursuit of her dreams.
Set in 1910, the film brings to life the character of Katharine, a determined woman who confronts her family’s expectations of marriage to forge her own path in the male-dominated field of astronomy. However, her ambition is challenged when her father pressures her into an unwanted engagement. As the narrative unfolds, Katharine’s encounters with a fearless suffragette and a supportive editor enable her to re-evaluate the constraints imposed on her by society, love, and tradition, leading her to seek a life that reflects her true self.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Bennett shared that her own experiences as an actress echoed the themes of rejection and aspiration depicted in the film. The 38-year-old performer, who gained recognition for her roles in “The Girl on the Train” and “The Magnificent Seven,” has found a deep connection with Katharine’s struggles. She explained, “I think Virginia Woolf understood the cost of women being invisible. And that’s something I really related with. That was just one of the most moving lines in the film for me, ‘Just give me a chance.’”
Bennett elaborated on the historical context of women’s contributions being overlooked and uncredited. She explained, “For centuries, women’s work was anonymous and absorbed into the achievements of men. To be unseen is a kind of disappearance, and to be uncredited is a kind of silencing. I could relate with that struggle wholeheartedly.”
The actress revealed that her journey in Hollywood has included facing frequent rejection, much like her character Katharine. This challenge reached a peak during her preparation for a recent audition, when she expressed her frustration to writer Justine Waddell. “I just was like, ‘I can’t keep kicking this ball around anymore. It’s just exhausting.’”
Bennett also reflected on the emotional impact of constant rejection in the competitive entertainment industry. “You hear no more than you hear yes. And it can be a very painful experience,” she noted. However, she appreciates the role of art in processing and expressing one’s pain, making it accessible for others to relate to.
In addition to navigating her career, Bennett manages her role as a mother to her seven-year-old daughter, Virginia, whom she shares with renowned director Joe Wright. Throughout the interview, she managed to prepare bolognese for her family, showcasing her capability to balance the demands of motherhood and a flourishing career. She comically remarked, “See, the struggle and the juggle is real.”
Bennett places significant value on the lessons her daughter learns from her professional life. She stated, “What matters most to me is what she sees around me—working, creating with other women, supporting one another, and taking themselves seriously, while also laughing at themselves.” This emphasis on collaboration and empowerment aligns closely with the film’s themes.
“Virginia Woolf’s Night & Day,” directed by Tina Gharavi, also features performances from Jack Whitehall and Lily Allen. The film is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective on Woolf’s literary work, highlighting the timeless struggles women face in their pursuit of autonomy and recognition.
As the film prepares for its nationwide release on September 4, audiences can look forward to a captivating exploration of female ambition, intertwined with the rich historical backdrop of early 20th-century London. Bennett’s portrayal of Katharine promises to resonate with anyone who has ever fought against the odds to carve out their own identity and path in life.