Steering an emotionally demanding drama like Without Blood from behind the camera can push any filmmaker to their limit, but Angelina Jolie found her anchor in longtime friend Salma Hayek.
From “Eternals” to Gritty Drama: Why Jolie Thrives Directing Hayek
During an intimate sit-down for Entertainment Tonight to discuss their war drama, the two A-listers, who first formed a close bond seven years ago while working together on Marvel‘s Eternals, interviewed each other about their evolving creative partnership. With Hayek starring in the lead role and Jolie serving as director, co-writer, and producer, their dynamic shifted from casual friendship to high-stakes problem-solving under tight deadlines.
When asked whether Hayek is easier to direct or to simply hang out with, Jolie admitted the collaborative bond on set brought out a different, vital side of their connection.
“I maybe even love working with you more,” Jolie confessed. “Because I think we… I like to solve things and be kind of in the [process].”
While Jolie praised Hayek for being extraordinarily focused and driven when the cameras roll, she candidly opened up about her own intense headspace while directing, crediting Hayek with keeping her steady throughout the shoot.
“I’m all over the place, and she’s trying to like get me to calm down and get things right, which I need. I really need that in my life,” Jolie said. “She’s like my oxygen, cuz I can get very like heavy.”
The film follows a war survivor named Nina seeking retribution against those who traumatized her as a young child. Tackling such raw, bleak themes forced both women into vulnerable territory, but having a trusted presence in the room allowed Jolie to channel those heavy emotions without losing her footing on set.
Without Blood will be out in U.S. theatres on September 18.
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