In a candid discussion on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Anna Kendrick reflected on a troubling experience with a director who belittled her in front of a large group of extras. The incident unfolded during a scene where Kendrick was asked to improvise. After her performance, the director abruptly called ‘cut’ and criticized her actions without justification, leaving her feeling humiliated.
Kendrick described the experience as a deliberate power move, saying, “It really felt like a very specific power move thing to embarrass me.” She expressed her anger, especially after learning that the very improv that was mocked ended up in the film’s trailer, declaring, “So f*** you!”
This incident sheds light on the often uncomfortable dynamics in the film industry, where power plays can lead to humiliation. Despite this, Kendrick has turned the page in her career, making her directorial debut with Woman of the Hour. The film, a chilling dramatization of serial killer Rodney Alcala’s life, was released on Netflix on October 18, 2024, showcasing her evolution from actress to director.
As Kendrick continues to rise in her career, her story serves as a reminder of the challenges artists face and the resilience needed to navigate the complexities of Hollywood.