Juliette Binoche

Emmanuel Itier: How is your game of bowling and how did it go with Steve Carell?

Juliette Binoche: Terrible! I was such a mess, and I trained in vain before each take. We did take after take and I was still a very bad player. But it’s not a problem because it was written in the movie that I was a “zero” in bowling and that I was impressing the character of Steve because of my lack of skills. So I was perfect in spite of myself trying to do good.

EI: What attracted you to this film? Was the attraction as a French actress to dive into a totally different universe–an American universe?

JB: Well, first it took me a while before I had a chance to read the script–like three months. I was busy with other work. Finally, when I read the script, I thought there was something unique about this film. And also I had seen Pieces of April, the other film of Peter Hedges. I was convinced, after meeting him, that this could be a great experience. I didn’t know Steve Carell, so that was not the attraction to the film. Now that I know him, I’m really fond of him.

EI: What are the differences between playing in a US and a French film? What are the advantages of playing in the US film?

JB: No advantages in particular, but at the same time, it’s fun to dive into a universe slightly different from the one I know in France. I have always wanted to work with different people with a strong opinion and from a diverse background. I like to be an explorer as an actress. I like to create different worlds with other people.

EI: The movie is also about the toughness we have to communicate between each other, in spite of all the technology available. What are your thoughts about this theme?

JB: Well, maybe you’re right, but this was not something that touched me in particular, because I don’t feel necessarily concerned about the lack of communication.

EI: What will be your best or worst souvenir from this American adventure?

JB: Well, in the movie, I’m cooking pancakes, and so, in real life, I did try to create the best-ever created recipe for pancakes. I even had real maple syrup sent from Quebec. I really put together a “perfect” recipe with the help of the chef of my host hotel. I was cooking every weekend, but for the crew only. Then one day, at the end of the shooting, I did a “wrap” cooking pancakes party and everyone got invited. But what I didn’t know is that one of the kids had an allergy to whole wheat and this poor kid got so sick! I felt terrible!