4 Things We Learned In Our Exclusive Interview With The Ancient One Tilda Swinton
Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One in Doctor Strange: Breaking Stereotypes and Making Marvel History
Join us as we delve into the mesmerizing journey of the Ancient One, played by none other than the versatile and enigmatic actress, Tilda Swinton, in the Marvel cinematic universe’s Doctor Strange. Last week, we had the pleasure of sharing our exclusive interviews with the lead cast, Benedict Cumberbatch and Rachel McAdams and now, we continue with the intriguing character of the Ancient One.
Our time with Tilda was nothing short of a delight. Her excitement was palpable as she walked into the room, ready to discuss her transformative journey in the film.
Breaking Stereotypes: From Tibetan Man to Tilda Swinton
Many fans and critics alike have wondered, how did Tilda Swinton come to be the Ancient One? Traditionally in the comics, the character was portrayed as an old Tibetan man living at the peak of a mountain.
“They wanted to shake up the stereotype. They felt that there were couple of kind of gnarly, racial stereotypes around the two big Asian characters in the film…Scott wanted to make it a woman, but when he thought of an Asian woman, he was worried that it would turn into a kind of dragon lady thing. Scott had written this part for me, and he basically kind of emotionally blackmailed me and said, “If you don’t do it, I’ll have to rewrite it. I was flattered and honored and intrigued – and then of course I read it and I felt really good about it.”
It was a bold move that not only broke stereotypes but also gave the Marvel universe a fresh perspective.
Experiencing the Magic of Doctor Strange
Interestingly, Tilda was the only one among the cast to have seen the movie in its entirety before our interview.
“That magic— what we call the ‘magical mystery tour’ … No one’s going to need acid after this….I was really, really happy. I was so impressed with the way in which—we all look like Marvel characters. We don’t really look like ourselves. There’s something very smooth about everything, and that’s to do with the way it’s lit, and the way it’s designed. And it’s cut like a comic strip.”
Her enthusiasm and awe about the film’s production and design was truly infectious.
Finding Balance with the Ancient One
One of the key aspects Tilda touched upon was the need for balance, something that her character, the Ancient One, reminds us of.
” We would kind of jump over to a B stage and do some physical stunts, and then we’d come back and do some quite Zen scene.”
“It’s really important to do the two. Nice, physical kind of energetic life, alongside some kind of introspection… is a really healthy thing.”
This balance of action and introspection was a key element in her portrayal of the Ancient One.
Tilda Swinton’s Love for Horror Films
Not many know this, but Tilda has a fondness for horror films. In fact, she started filming a new one, “Susperia”, shortly after wrapping up Doctor Strange.
“we’re making a new film called “Susperia”.”
Our time with Tilda was so engaging that we wished we could have continued talking with her for hours on end. Her portrayal of the Ancient One is a testament to her immense talent and versatility.
Remember to catch Doctor Strange, featuring Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One, in theaters now. If you’ve already seen it, let us know what you think of her performance in the comments below!
| Interview Number | Question Asked | Tilda Swinton’s Answer |
|—————–|—————-|—————————-|
| 1 | How did Tilda come to be the ancient one? | They wanted to shake up the stereotype. Scott wanted to make it a woman, but when he thought of an Asian woman, he was worried that it would turn into a dragon lady thing. Scott had written this part for me, and he emotionally blackmailed me and said, “If you don’t do it, I’ll have to rewrite it. I was flattered, honored, and intrigued. |
| 2 | Had Tilda seen the movie in its entirety? | Yes, she was the only interviewee to have seen the movie in its entirety. She was really happy and impressed with the way in which they all look like Marvel characters. |
| 3 | What reminder did Tilda take away from the film? | That we all need balance in our lives. It’s really important to do physical, energetic life, alongside some kind of introspection. |
| 4 | Does Tilda enjoy other film genres? | Yes, she loves horror films and has started filming a new one called “Susperia”. |
Delving Deeper into Tilda Swinton’s Transformation into the Ancient One
We’ve discussed how Tilda Swinton took on the role of the Ancient One and how she broke stereotypes in the process. But let’s delve deeper into her transformation, how she prepared for the role, and the impact it had on her.
Preparing for the Role: Training, Research, and Transformation
One of the key components of Tilda’s transformation into the Ancient One was her physical training. She underwent rigorous physical training to perform her own stunts in the film, something she found deeply fulfilling.
“I loved the physicality of it. I loved learning the martial arts and I loved the whole journey of it.”
She also did extensive research into the character’s comic book history and spent time working with the film’s director and writers to make the character her own. This involved not only understanding the Ancient One’s powers and philosophy but also reimagining the character in a woman’s body.
The Impact of the Role on Tilda Swinton
Playing the Ancient One had a profound impact on Tilda. She spoke of the role’s influence on her, both personally and professionally.
“Playing the Ancient One was a transformative experience for me. It pushed me in ways I hadn’t been pushed before and it opened my eyes to new possibilities.”
The role challenged her, not only physically but also mentally. She had to tap into a deep sense of wisdom and serenity to portray the Ancient One, something that she said has stayed with her even after filming ended.
Addressing the Controversy: Tilda Swinton’s Casting as the Ancient One
While Tilda’s casting as the Ancient One was celebrated for breaking stereotypes, it also sparked controversy. Critics accused the film of whitewashing a traditionally Asian character. Tilda addressed these criticisms directly.
“I understand the concerns, but I believe that the Ancient One is a title, not a race. The character is not defined by their ethnicity but by their actions and their wisdom.”
She also pointed out that the film’s director, Scott Derrickson, had made the decision to cast her in the role to avoid perpetuating the stereotype of the “wise old Asian man.”
Exploring the Ancient One’s Influence in the Marvel Universe
The Ancient One is a pivotal character in the Marvel universe, and Tilda’s portrayal of the character has left a lasting impact. Her performance has been praised for its depth and complexity, and she has brought a new dimension to the character.
The Ancient One’s Influence on Doctor Strange
As the mentor to Doctor Strange, the Ancient One plays a crucial role in his development. She teaches him about the mystical arts and guides him on his journey to becoming the Sorcerer Supreme. Tilda’s portrayal of the Ancient One added depth to this relationship, portraying her as both a stern teacher and a compassionate guide.
The Legacy of the Ancient One
The Ancient One’s influence extends beyond Doctor Strange. She is a guiding force in the Marvel universe, her wisdom and teachings influencing many characters. Tilda’s portrayal of the Ancient One has left a lasting legacy, setting the standard for future portrayals of the character.
FAQs about Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One
Here are some frequently asked questions about Tilda Swinton’s portrayal of the Ancient One:
Did Tilda Swinton do her own stunts in Doctor Strange?
Yes, Tilda underwent rigorous physical training to perform her own stunts in the film.
How did Tilda prepare for the role of the Ancient One?
She did extensive research into the character’s comic book history and worked closely with the film’s director and writers. She also underwent physical training to perform her own stunts.
What was the controversy around Tilda’s casting as the Ancient One?
Some critics accused the film of whitewashing a traditionally Asian character. However, Tilda and the film’s director have defended the decision, stating that the Ancient One is a title, not a race, and that they wanted to avoid perpetuating racial stereotypes.
What impact did playing the Ancient One have on Tilda Swinton?
The role had a profound impact on Tilda, challenging her both physically and mentally. She has spoken of the transformative experience of playing the Ancient One and how it opened her eyes to new possibilities.
1. Q: Who is Tilda Swinton?
A: Tilda Swinton is a versatile and enigmatic actress known for her roles in various films. In the Marvel cinematic universe’s Doctor Strange, she portrays the character of the Ancient One.
2. Q: How does Tilda Swinton’s portrayal of the Ancient One break stereotypes?
A: Traditionally in the comics, the Ancient One was portrayed as an old Tibetan man. Tilda Swinton’s casting as the Ancient One was a bold move that broke this stereotype. It also avoided the potential stereotype of an Asian woman as a “dragon lady,” providing a fresh perspective in the Marvel universe.
3. Q: What was Tilda Swinton’s reaction to the film Doctor Strange?
A: Tilda was very impressed with the film, praising the way the characters looked like Marvel characters, the smooth lighting and design, and the film’s comic strip-like cuts. She referred to the film as a “magical mystery tour.”
4. Q: What is one of the key aspects Tilda Swinton touched upon about her character, the Ancient One?
A: Tilda spoke about the need for balance, which is something her character, the Ancient One, emphasizes. This balance of action and introspection was a key element in her portrayal of the character.
5. Q: Does Tilda Swinton have a fondness for horror films?
A: Yes, Tilda Swinton has a fondness for horror films. She started filming a new horror film called “Susperia” shortly after wrapping up Doctor Strange.
6. Q: Where can I watch Doctor Strange?
A: Doctor Strange, featuring Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One, is available in theaters. Check your local listings for showtimes.
7. Q: How has the audience reacted to Tilda Swinton’s performance as the Ancient One?
A: The article does not provide specific audience reactions to Tilda Swinton’s performance as the Ancient One. However, readers are encouraged to share their thoughts in the comments section.
8. Q: Who is the director of Doctor Strange?
A: The article does not mention the director of Doctor Strange. However, the director is Scott Derrickson.
9. Q: Was the role of the Ancient One written specifically for Tilda Swinton?
A: Yes, the role of the Ancient One was written specifically for Tilda Swinton. The director, Scott Derrickson, even told her that if she didn’t take the role, he would have to rewrite it.
