Actress Margaret Qualley has expressed her deep gratitude for her role in the recently acclaimed film “The Substance.” While the project did not start as a mainstream blockbuster, it gained traction and a devoted audience, much to Qualley’s surprise. Amidst the excitement, the film has also stirred significant awards season buzz, especially for her co-star, Demi Moore, who has finally collected her first major Hollywood accolade after four decades in the business. This unique journey of growth and recognition has sparked a newfound appreciation for her craft, even as Qualley reflects on the challenging nature of filming.
The process of bringing “The Substance” to life was anything but easy. Qualley recounts a grueling five-month shooting schedule filled with intense moments that tested her resilience. Speaking candidly on the Happy Sad Confused podcast hosted by Josh Horowitz, Margaret shared how physically and emotionally demanding the experience was, emphasizing that filming scenes often pushed her mental and physical boundaries. Balancing an artistry developed from her earlier dance career, along with the demands of acting, particularly in a horror-themed narrative, enabled her to appreciate the collaborative spirit that flourished on set.
A significant aspect of Qualley’s experience was her friendship with Demi Moore. She praised Moore for her mentorship throughout the filming process, describing their bond as one that blossomed through shared hardships. The mutual respect and admiration between the two actresses underscore the importance of camaraderie in such demanding environments. Qualley’s acknowledgment of Moore’s perseverance highlights the notion that genuine connections can form, even in the most challenging circumstances, thereby elevating their performances and enriching their personal lives.
Diving into the film’s psychological aspects, Qualley candidly admitted to feeling terrified by the themes explored in “The Substance.” The portrayal of gruesome body transformations and the lengths to which her character, a well-known aerobics instructor, goes to maintain her youth presented a stark contrast to her own values and career choices. This internal conflict compelled her to face societal pressures concerning beauty and acceptance, a haunting reflection of the expectations imposed upon women in the entertainment industry. Qualley’s bravery in confronting these fears rather than retreating from them reflects a compelling narrative about self-acceptance and personal growth.
The toll that filming took on Qualley was undeniably significant. She revealed that the rigorous application of prosthetics and the overall physical demand of her role resulted in substantial skin issues, including acne, which took a long time to heal post-filming. Qualley’s light-hearted recounting of needing to shoot from angles that avoided her face due to the intensive makeup process serves as both a humorous and sobering reminder of the physicality often required in acting. This experience has led her to a deeper understanding of the sacrifices that come with performance art, further honing her appreciation for the craft.
Margaret Qualley’s experience in “The Substance” was a multifaceted journey filled with intensity, growth, and a reevaluation of personal and professional norms. Through collaboration, courage, and resilience, she emerged from this demanding project not just as a more skilled actress but also as a more self-aware individual.