Maggie Gyllenhaal: Directing Feels Like Motherhood

Maggie Gyllenhaal, known for her acting roles, has shared profound insights into her experiences as a director at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. She likens the responsibility of directing to that of motherhood, describing it as both exciting and terrifying.

Gyllenhaal expressed particular delight in the pre-production phase of directing, especially collaborating with her cinematographer. She values the creation of a shared "imaginary world" and the development of a "shared language" on set, a process she finds intensely rewarding and new to her.

Furthermore, Gyllenhaal noted the distinct level of respect afforded to directors, a perception she found novel compared to her experiences as an actress or producer. This newfound appreciation for the directorial role has led her to prioritize it over acting opportunities.

The filmmaker also touched upon a new directing vehicle, an adaptation of Rachel Kushner's novel "Creation Lake," describing it as being in its nascent, personal stages. Gyllenhaal received the festival's President's Award at the event, celebrating a career that has evolved significantly since her early acting award at the same festival twenty years prior.