Tessa Thompson Reflects on Her Career and Collaborations at BFI London Film Festival

During a recent screen talk at the BFI London Film Festival, actress Tessa Thompson shared her experiences and reflections on her diverse career, which spans from major Marvel blockbusters to intimate independent films. The event, held on a Monday, featured Thompson discussing her latest project, "Hedda," a contemporary adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's "Hedda Gabler," directed by Nia DaCosta and produced by Thompson's own company, Viva Maude.

Tessa Thompson Calls Chris Hemsworth a ‘Muscular Baby’Variety MagazineEntertainment WeeklyTessa Thompson Humorously Compares Thor Co-Star Chris Hemsworth to a Muscular Baby and Enormous Toddler

Thompson expressed her admiration for her "Thor" co-star Chris Hemsworth, humorously describing him as “a baby with muscles” and a “very big infant.” She noted Hemsworth's playful nature and willingness to do anything for a laugh, which enhances their collaborative experience in the Marvel films. Reflecting on the filmmaking process, Thompson stated, “It’s so goofy making those movies sometimes,” emphasizing the need for a childlike imagination in their creation.

Entertainment Weekly

Thompson also praised director Taika Waititi, who helmed "Thor: Ragnarok" and "Thor: Love and Thunder." She characterized him as “a huge infant” with a childlike approach to filmmaking, adding that it can be “terrifying” yet ultimately rewarding. This playful dynamic, according to Thompson, is essential for fostering creativity on set.

Entertainment Weekly

In discussing "Hedda," Thompson acknowledged the challenges of taking on the title role, stating, “I really like to do things that terrify me.” She highlighted the historical lack of representation for women of color in such roles but clarified that her motivation was to present Ibsen’s work in a fresh and accessible manner, aiming to engage a new generation of viewers. “Ibsen felt really sexy and fun to me,” she remarked, indicating her desire to make the classic play appealing to contemporary audiences.

Variety Magazine

Thompson also touched on her acting techniques, particularly the Meisner technique, which emphasizes listening and responding to scene partners. She noted, “Words are overrated,” suggesting that much of character communication occurs in silence. This perspective reflects her growth as an actress, as she admitted to previously squinting at her on-screen appearances but has since become more objective through her production experiences.

Variety Magazine

Following its premiere in London, "Hedda" continues its festival journey and is set to hit select U.S. theaters on October 22, with streaming available on Amazon Prime Video starting October 29. Thompson's reflections during the festival highlight her evolving career and commitment to exploring diverse roles and narratives.

Entertainment Weekly

• “It’s so goofy making those movies sometimes,” — Tessa Thompson

Variety Magazine

• “I really like to do things that terrify me, I really like that.” — Tessa Thompson

Variety Magazine

• “I became conscious that I’m not sure I would have got the opportunity, were it not for a filmmaker that was interested in putting people like me in the center of a frame,” — Tessa Thompson

Variety Magazine

Thompson's candid insights and playful remarks about her collaborations with Hemsworth and Waititi underscore her enthusiasm for her craft and the importance of creative freedom in filmmaking.

Tessa Thompson Calls Chris Hemsworth a ‘Muscular Baby’