The Fleeting Beauty and Abundant Charm of Adolescence

Director Sally Potter, acclaimed for films like 'Orlando,' 'The Tango Lesson,' and 'Yes,' now delivers a poignant drama that captures the turmoil, conflict, and growth of a teenage girl navigating a world of societal contradictions and political unease.

The lead role is played by Elle Fanning, younger sister of Dakota Fanning, who has garnered attention in films such as 'Virginia.' Fanning brings a delicate, adolescent beauty and a radiant charm to the screen. Alongside her, Alice Englert, daughter of directors Jane Campion and Colin Englert, who broke through with the film adaptation of the bestselling novel 'Beautiful Creatures,' delivers a fresh and vibrant performance as Ginger's best friend.

Ginger Takes a Step Towards a Brighter Future

London, 1960s. As the Cold War intensifies, best friends Ginger and Rosa, inseparable since birth, skip school to discuss religion, politics, and fashion, reveling in their adolescence as they transition from girls to young women.

However, their friendship begins to fray when Rosa falls for Roland, Ginger's father and a prominent intellectual, and their differing views on the anti-nuclear movement create a rift. With family and friends, Ginger finds herself increasingly at odds, while the daily news of nuclear threats paints a stark contrast to the future she envisioned. Yet, Ginger takes determined steps forward, seeking a brighter tomorrow.—.



The film masterfully recreates the atmosphere of 1960s London, a time of social anxiety and transformation. Director Sally Potter, also a celebrated poet, delicately portrays the bond between two girls, a connection that is at once strong and fragile. Ginger's journey, as she confronts and navigates a world of chaos and contradiction, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

Her Voice Will One Day Reach Someone

—What led you to take on this role? What was it like working with Sally Potter?

I received the script first, then met Sally for the audition. I was only 12 at the time, so I worried I might be too young for the role of Ginger, who is supposed to be 16 or 17. On top of that, I had to audition in British English, which made me even more nervous. However, Sally and I clicked immediately, and after a few more meetings, we began filming the following year.

This script was something Sally had nurtured for many years; it's very personal to her. She lived through her adolescence during the 1960s and actually experienced the Cuban Missile Crisis. Since the film depicts the transition from girlhood to womanhood, having a female director was incredibly helpful. I asked Sally many questions during filming, and she always answered by sharing her own experiences. It was a privilege. Listening to her, I realized that the concerns of girls then and now are not so different.

—The cast was full of veteran actors. What was the atmosphere on set like?

It was wonderful. I still remember the first time I met Annette (Bening). Being able to witness the performances and the dedication of such respected actors up close was a truly valuable experience.



—This film features your first kiss scene, doesn't it?

(Blushing) Yes, it was my first kiss scene. We filmed it on the last day, and I was anxious about it until then. But the boy playing opposite me was a gentleman and very kind, which helped a lot.

—What are the highlights of this film, in your opinion?

The film opens with images of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. The 1960s, the era in which the story is set, was a time of significant anti-nuclear activism. Sally told me that the demonstrations she participated in back then lasted for several days. Coincidentally, in the wake of the earthquake, there's a growing movement against nuclear power. I believe it's wonderful for young people to participate in such movements, to find their convictions, and act upon them. Their voices will surely reach someone eventually.

—The final scene was very impactful. If you were in a similar situation, what decision do you think you would make?

For Ginger to move forward, she needed to forgive Rosa. I don't think she could ever forget Rosa's actions, but perhaps through that experience, she grew significantly. I believe I would ultimately make the same decision.

—Do you have any memorable anecdotes from the set?

On set, I felt like I transformed into someone else. Sally was very particular about Ginger's hair color, so it took eight hours (!) to dye it, and we did numerous camera tests. But the biggest challenge was mastering British English. It wasn't just me; Christina (Hendricks), who played my mother, and Alice (Englert) also faced this. It was a big challenge, but being surrounded by British English-speaking staff and filming in London, I picked it up faster than I expected.

Friendship and Family Are Built on Love

—Did you study the historical context for your role?

During rehearsals, Alice and I read many books together. We also read books and photo collections about the anti-nuclear movement that Sally provided. In the makeup room, there were pictures of hairstyles and makeup from the era, which helped us faithfully recreate the 1960s look.

—The film depicts adolescence with such delicate nuance. How would you describe yourself?

That's a difficult question... I enjoy trying new things and I laugh a lot. I try to be open and not worry too much about small details.



—What kind of roles would you like to take on in the future?

I'd love to star in a film with my sister. I think playing friends would be fun.

—What would you like to say to those who are about to see the film?

I hope they go to the cinema with an open mind. And I hope they feel a sense of hope, however small, by the end. I'd be happy if the film's theme of 'forgiveness' resonates with them.

—Self, love, friendship, family, faith. If you had to choose just one, which would it be?

Oh, that's tough... Our family truly cherishes each other, so for me, love and family are the same thing. Choosing just one is so difficult! Friends are important too... But ultimately, I think I'd choose 'love.' Because I believe friendship and family are both built on love.



Elle Fanning
Born in Georgia, USA, in 1998. Her older sister is actress Dakota Fanning, who began her career as a child star. Elle made her screen debut at the age of two, playing the younger version of Dakota in 'I Am Sam' (2001). She subsequently appeared in numerous films, TV dramas, and commercials as a child actor, including Todd Williams' 'The Door in the Floor' (2004) and Terry George's 'What We Did That Night' (2007). She played the young Cate Blanchett in 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' (2008). She also starred in Sofia Coppola's 'Somewhere' (2010), which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, and Francis Ford Coppola's 'Virginia' (2012). Her career is now surpassing that of her sister.

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'Ginger & Rosa'
Opening Saturday, August 31st, at Theatre Image Forum and other cinemas nationwide.
Director | Sally Potter
Starring | Elle Fanning, Alice Englert, Christina Hendricks
Distribution | Playtime
2012 / UK, Denmark, Canada, Croatia / 90 min http://www.gingernoasa.net/

© BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE AND APB FILMS LTD 2012