Dakota Johnson Exposes Hollywood’s ‘Shady’ Side in Candid Red Sea Festival Talk

Dakota Johnson delivered a remarkably honest assessment of Hollywood. She spoke at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia. Her talk occurred on Friday, December 6th.

The actress and producer described a “love-hate relationship” with her career. She called some industry financiers “really shady.” Johnson also revealed the exhausting emotional work of acting.

Producing Reveals an “Ugly” Industry Behind the Curtain

Johnson explained the stark difference between acting and producing. Acting feels like being in a protective bubble. Producing forces you to see behind the curtain.

She stated that what she sees there is “really ugly.” This refers to difficult dealings with film financiers. The experience can be heartbreaking for her.

Her move into producing was a deliberate career shift. She wanted a larger role in creating projects. Johnson sought to explore artistic parts others overlooked.

A Focus on Human Stories and Career Reflections

Through her company TeaTime Pictures, Johnson focuses on specific stories. The company prioritizes mostly female-driven, human experience projects. She aims to make movies about people undergoing internal evolution.

Johnson reflected on past career choices. She admitted to being persuaded into roles not right for her. She is now learning to choose projects more carefully.

She highlighted several formative filming experiences. Working on The Peanut Butter Falcon was a profound gift. Collaborations with director Luca Guadagnino made her feel deeply seen.

Dakota Johnson’s candid revelations highlight a growing tension between art and commerce in modern Hollywood. Her search for authentic projects continues to define her evolving career path.

Thought you’d like to know

Why did Dakota Johnson start producing films?

She wanted more creative control and to tell specific stories. Johnson felt other people weren’t seeing certain parts of her artistry. Producing allows her to champion female-driven human experiences.

What did she say was “shady” in Hollywood?

Johnson specifically pointed to some film financiers. She described seeing behind the curtain of production as “really ugly.” This shady behavior is a source of heartbreak in her work.

Which film did she call a “total gift”?

Johnson said working on *The Peanut Butter Falcon* was a career highlight. She praised her co-star Zack Gottsagen’s pure energy and talent. She felt the love behind the film translates to audiences.

What is her production company focused on?

TeaTime Pictures focuses on mostly female-driven projects. It centers on the human experience and internal evolution. The company is also producing Johnson’s directorial debut.

How did she describe working with Luca Guadagnino?

Johnson said he made her feel the “most deeply seen” by a director. She would work with the Italian filmmaker forever. His direction was pivotal during her early career doubts.

What was her overall impression of the Saudi festival?

Johnson said she felt “inspired” and met incredible women. She expressed a renewed faith in cinema after feeling the U.S. industry was grim. The festival’s support for diverse filmmakers impressed her.