It’s a dream couple who walked the steps of the Cannes Film Festival. Uma Thurman and Richard Gerestars of Oh Canada by Paul Schrader, caused a sensation in this beautiful work. He plays a dying director who remembers his past. She plays his wife, who listens to him talk about parts of his life for a documentary.
“He says he wants to tell his memories for her but I think it’s more for himself that he needs to leave a trace of his life. He is an intelligent man but not really generous,” confides Richard Gere.
Russell Banks at the heart of the film
The relationship between the man and his wife is revealed as he recounts his memories for a poignant film inspired by a book by Russell Banks. Richard Gere was particularly touched by the character. “I thought a lot about my father who died of illness, but Paul Schrader also told me about Russell Banks and I looked at many photos and videos of him before his death to inform my performance. »
Our articles on Cannes are here
“Richard was amazing in the role,” admires Uma Thurman. It was fascinating to see him transform into an old man. I was the first admirer of his performance. » This comment visibly pleases his partner. “I’m going to hire Uma as my press secretary,” he said with a burst of laughter.
No more secrets
Both are excited by Paul Schrader’s direction. “He is exceptionally benevolent,” explains Uma Thurman, “which is not the case with all filmmakers. We don’t give filmmakers psychology tests before filming and few have the gentleness of Paul. » The complicity between the actors and the filmmaker is palpable throughout this journey, evoking subjects as serious as commitment in all its forms and loyalty.
If Oh Canada talks about the secrets that a celebrity can confide just before their death, this concept makes Richard Gere smile. “Secrets are impossible today as soon as you are known,” he said. The concept of privacy has become a fiction. » The hero of the film takes the time to deliver a last stand in front of the one he loves and the viewer. What he reveals reveals as much about America and its inhabitants as about this charismatic man with frenzied selfishness.