by Anna Kendrick, the versatile and talented actress known for her wide range of roles, has graced the big screen for over two decades. From her breakthrough performance in “Pitch Perfect” to her recent critically acclaimed work in “Mr. Holmes,” Kendrick’s career has been filled with memorable moments. Yet, there is one particular scene that stands out as the most bizarre and unforgettable in her filmography. In an interview with Collider, Kendrick shared her experience filming this peculiar scene in the 2014 indie film “Drinking Buddies,” a moment that was both strange and subtle, a testament to her skill as an actress.
Chapter 1: The Setting
“Drinking Buddies,” directed by Joe Swanberg, is a unique romantic drama that explores the complexities of relationships in the setting of a craft brewery. Anna Kendrick plays the role of Jill, a young woman working at the brewery, alongside a talented ensemble cast that includes Olivia Wilde as Kate, Jake Johnson as Luke, and Ron Livingston as Chris. The film is known for its naturalistic approach, allowing the actors to improvise their lines and create authentic, unscripted moments.
Chapter 2: The Unusual Scene
The scene in question unfolds within the framework of a night of drinking and camaraderie. Jill and Kate, coworkers and friends, find themselves in an intimate and somewhat inebriated conversation. Both are seated on a couch, with Jill sporting a pair of overalls, a choice of wardrobe that will become pivotal to the scene’s peculiarity.
As the conversation between Jill and Kate unfolds, it becomes apparent that Jill is gradually succumbing to the effects of alcohol. Her speech becomes slurred, and her eyelids grow heavy. In her intoxicated state, she starts to drift off to sleep.
Chapter 3: A Unique Twist
What makes this scene particularly strange and memorable is the unexpected twist that occurs while Jill is dozing off. As she leans over, her head comes to rest on Kate’s shoulder. In this vulnerable moment, Kate reaches out and touches Jill’s overalls, which results in the unzipping of her attire.
The unzipping of Jill’s overalls adds an unexpected layer of intimacy and sensuality to the scene. It is a subtle and surprising moment that takes the audience by surprise, much like Jill herself, who is briefly roused from her slumber by the unexpected touch.
Chapter 4: The Subtle Approach
One of the remarkable aspects of this scene is how it departs from traditional cinematic portrayals of intimacy and flirtation. Anna Kendrick explained in her interview with Collider that the scene was initially written to be much more explicit. However, she and Olivia Wilde, along with director Joe Swanberg, collaborated to make it more subtle and nuanced.
“We wanted it to be a moment between two friends who are drunk and flirting, but not necessarily going to have sex,” Kendrick shared. “I think we were able to achieve that.”
Chapter 5: Anna Kendrick’s Versatility
Anna Kendrick’s portrayal of Jill in this peculiar scene is a testament to her versatility as an actress. While the scene could have easily become gratuitous or exploitative in the hands of a less skilled performer, Kendrick brings authenticity and depth to her character. Her ability to convey vulnerability, confusion, and desire in this unscripted moment showcases her exceptional talent.
Chapter 6: The Collaborative Process
In the world of independent filmmaking, collaboration and improvisation are often key elements in achieving authentic and compelling performances. “Drinking Buddies” embraced this ethos wholeheartedly, allowing the actors to contribute to the creation of their characters and the development of the narrative.
The scene’s unconventional nature was a result of the collaboration between Anna Kendrick, Olivia Wilde, and director Joe Swanberg. Their willingness to take creative risks and their commitment to making the scene feel genuine ultimately led to a moment that is both unusual and touching.
Chapter 7: The Impact of “Drinking Buddies”
“Drinking Buddies” received critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of human relationships and its exploration of the blurred lines between friendship and romance. The film’s naturalistic style and improvised dialogue allowed for moments like the one shared between Anna Kendrick and Olivia Wilde, making it a standout in both actresses’ careers.
Chapter 8: Conclusion
Anna Kendrick’s recounting of the “Drinking Buddies” scene offers a unique glimpse into the world of independent filmmaking and the creative process. The scene, while strange and unexpected, is a testament to Kendrick’s talent and versatility as an actress. It underscores her ability to bring authenticity and depth to her characters, even in the most unconventional of moments.
As Anna Kendrick continues to captivate audiences with her performances, her role in “Drinking Buddies” and the memorable scene within it serve as a reminder of her enduring impact on the world of cinema. It is a testament to her willingness to take creative risks and her commitment to delivering compelling and authentic performances that resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
