Anna Friel Reflects on No-Nonsense Women and Lighting in Her New Australian Drama

Learning Lines and Bath Time

British actor Anna Friel has a unique method of memorizing lines: she reads them in the bath. 'Not necessarily in very hot places,' she notes, emphasizing the importance of staying cool while studying. This technique not only helps her retain information but also offers an opportunity to relax and get into character.

'I blow up my pages and stick them everywhere, and I am not able to get out of the bath until I’ve learned that bit,' Friel explains. 'The older you get, the harder it is to memorise, but if you've got to study for exams, folks, the bath is a good shout.' This method seems to work well as she prepares for her role in 'The F Ward,' an Australian medical drama where she plays Dr Gloria Wall.

Lighting and Mental Health

A passionate collector of period lighting fixtures, Friel believes that light can significantly impact one's thinking. 'Light affects the brain – we’re meant to have natural light,' she explains, adding that she often walks into locations with a bag full of bulbs, suggesting ways to improve the ambience and warmth. This practice stems from her appreciation for the Vaseline glass from the 1880s to 1920s, which provided a warm glow before electricity.

Friel stresses that lighting is crucial: 'It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money,' she states, advocating for the use of dimmers and additional lights in offices or schools. This not only enhances the environment but also contributes positively to mental well-being.

Meeting Maggie Smith and Judi Dench

In her early career, Friel met two legendary actresses, Maggie Smith and Judi Dench, on Broadway when she was 22. 'They kept an eye out for me,' she recalls, noting that her interactions with them were always positive. 'The times I met Maggie, there was never any nonsense,' she adds, highlighting the sincerity of their mentorship.

Australian Filming Experiences and Nostalgia

Friel's time in Australia offered a new perspective on local culture. She highlights the nonchalance of Aussies when it comes to swimming at odd hours and the abundance of beautiful people she encountered during filming. 'The nation of beautiful people' was a memorable observation, reflecting her surprise and admiration for Australian beauty standards.

Reflecting on her most cherished fan interaction, Friel mentions receiving a beautifully curated book of newspaper clippings from a fan who had researched Gracie Fields, her daughter's namesake. 'I thought that was one of the most extraordinarily kind things to do,' she says, expressing gratitude for such thoughtful gestures.

Advice and Nostalgia

Friel shares some practical advice: 'Hope for the best, expect the worst' is a mantra she holds dear. This approach, rooted in old-fashioned manifestation techniques, has served her well over the years. 'If you’re prepared for the worst, then you’ll never be shocked and not know how to handle it,' she adds, emphasizing resilience.

When asked about her go-to nostalgic favorites, Friel lists films from the 1980s and early 1990s: 'Pretty Woman, Ghost, The Goonies …' These movies, she believes, offer a comforting reminder of simpler times and the joy of imagination.

Conclusion

Anna Friel's insights span from the practicalities of acting to her personal passions for lighting design and period aesthetics. Her experiences in Australia have enriched her work, while her reflections on life and creativity offer valuable wisdom for aspiring artists and film enthusiasts alike.

Source: The Guardian