At the Marrakech International Film Festival ‘FIFM”, Hespress EN sat down with acclaimed Australian actor Simon Baker, known for his iconic role in “The Mentalist,” in which he played a psychic helping the California Bureau of Investigation.
The show has garnered immense success in Morocco, broadcasting from 2008 til 2015, therefore we asked Baker to share insights into his festival experiences, a surprising revelation about his Hollywood blockbuster past, and thoughts on his latest film, “Limbo.”
Baker, visibly pleased with the warm reception from Moroccan fans, confessed that he wasn’t fully aware of the show’s massive success in the country.
“I could tell when I was at the festival this time that people always smile at me. I know that Moroccans are very friendly, and I knew the show was successful around the world, but I wasn’t aware of where it was successful, specifically.”
Reflecting on his previous visit in 2019 as part of an Australian delegation, Baker highlighted the stark contrast to his recent personalized experience at the festival. This time, attending for a special screening of his latest film “Limbo,” he found the connection with the audience more enjoyable and intimate.
Taking him back to 2006 when Baker played a pivotal role in the cult favorite, “The Devil Wears Prada,” the actor shocked us with the revelation that he had never seen the film. Asked about his character’s impact on the lead, Andrea, Baker responded, “I haven’t seen the film.”
After giving him a brief synopsis, he expressed surprise at the interpretation of his character and how times have changed, contemplating whether Christian helped Andrea, played by Anne Hathaway, grow or inadvertently pushed her away.
Transitioning to his latest film, “Limbo,” screened during FIFM this week Baker delved into the production’s visual style dictated by a positive aspect and his pride in working closely with director Ivan Sen.
Describing Australian director Sen as a confident and self-assured director, Baker expressed the freedom it gave him as an actor. The film, shot in a short amount of time, explores a cold case investigation, unraveling unpleasant truths and cruel injustices to solve a mystery.
Baker emphasized the advantages of working with a small crew, highlighting the intimacy that enhances the filmmaking process. When asked about his preference between heavily commercialized productions and indie films, Baker stated, “I don’t discriminate.”
He emphasized his current focus on films that resonate with him personally and the desire to be creatively challenged by risk-taking directors.
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