In a vibrant exchange of insights, actresses Elle Fanning and Elizabeth Banks have come together to reflect on their experiences in film, particularly during their time in the Hunger Games franchise. The discussion, conducted for PEOPLE, sees both stars delving into the nuances of direction on set, sharing the best and worst advice they’ve received from directors throughout their careers.
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Fanning, who has taken on the role of Effie Trinket in the forthcoming film *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping*, succeeds Banks, who originally portrayed the character in the earlier adaptations. In their interview, Fanning examined the significance of emotional direction, reminiscing about a particular scene where a director encouraged her to adopt an unusual facial expression. “I appreciate direct instructions like ‘fast, slow, angrier, sadder’,” she expressed, emphasising her preference for clarity in direction. “’Cry!’ is one of my favourite notes. When a direction becomes overly complex, I find it more effective to strip it back,” she remarked.
Banks, who played Effie Trinket across the first four films of the franchise, chimed in with her own experiences of receiving direction. She recalled a notable moment from the shooting of *Zack and Miri Make a Porno* under the guidance of director Kevin Smith. Banks described how Smith advised her to incorporate physicality into her performance by simply lifting her arm during a specific line. “He essentially urged me to connect my performance to my body,” she said, reflecting on how such straightforward guidance can elevate a performance, especially when framed in terms of composition and movement.
A seasoned actress and director, Banks noted how her time behind the camera has enhanced her acting skills. “Directing teaches you a remarkable amount about acting,” she remarked, acknowledging the myriad skills the role demands. With a busy schedule, she stated that directing often requires the most from her, yet it enriches her understanding of the craft in ways she had not anticipated.
While Fanning and Banks have not yet shared the screen, their deep appreciation for the character of Effie Trinket transcends their individual portrayals. Banks enthusiastically praised Fanning’s interpretation, stating, “You’ve truly radiated in the role. When you appear on screen, there’s an unmistakable freshness.” Their mutual respect for the character highlights the depth of their connection to the Hunger Games narrative.
*The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping*, directed by Francis Lawrence, is set to explore the backstory of Effie Trinket as a younger character. Fanning will be joined on screen by Joseph Zada, who is cast as Haymitch Abernathy. The film is scheduled for release on 20 November.
As both actresses look forward to audience reactions, they reflect not only on the trials of their craft but also the impact Effie Trinket has had on contemporary cinema. The character, who initially captured the hearts of fans for her flamboyant persona, continues to resonate with audiences through the evolving stories within the Hunger Games universe.
Fans eager to see the next chapter of this beloved franchise will not have long to wait. At its heart, *Sunrise on the Reaping* promises to weave a rich tapestry of themes that fans have come to expect from the Hunger Games saga. With Fanning stepping into a role that has become iconic, the anticipation for the film is palpable.
Overall, the interaction between Fanning and Banks not only celebrates their individual journeys within the film industry but also illustrates the dynamic nature of storytelling through the ages. As they bridge the past with the present, their insights offer a reminder of the artistry involved in bringing complex characters to life on the silver screen.