In a revealing interview, Laura Linney, the celebrated Oscar-nominated actress, has candidly reflected on her illustrious career, including her thoughts on one of her less-than-stellar films, *Congo*. The actress, now 62, revisited her past roles, shared stories from her collaborations, and expressed a fondness for a project that has garnered infamy as “one of the great bad movies of our time”.
A Journey Through Film and Friendship
Speaking with *The Independent* for their new series, *Life in Pictures*, Linney opened up about her experiences in the film industry, particularly her interactions with notable co-stars like Mark Ruffalo and Jason Bateman. The series encourages actors to delve into their most memorable projects and the experiences that have shaped their careers.
Among the gems of her past, Linney highlighted her breakthrough performance in *You Can Count On Me*, where she starred alongside a then-emerging Ruffalo, as well as her iconic roles in *The Truman Show* and the holiday classic *Love, Actually*. However, it was her reflection on *Congo*, a 1995 action-adventure film based on Michael Crichton’s novel, that truly captured attention.
‘Congo’: A Fondly Regarded Failure
Despite its notoriety, Linney holds a special place in her heart for *Congo*. The film, which follows an expedition team that encounters a perilous breed of gorilla in the heart of Africa, was Linney’s first lead role and stands out as her sole venture into action cinema. Directed by Frank Marshall, the film was met with critical derision, earning seven nominations at the Golden Raspberry Awards, which celebrate the worst in film.
Linney unabashedly labelled the film a “delightmare,” stating, “Congo’s one of the great bad movies of our time! It’s a great one. I haven’t watched it in so long. I’ll go back to it when I’m really old and want to feel good about myself.” Her playful nostalgia underscores a deep appreciation for the memories it conjures, reflecting on her youth and the joy of being in the industry at that time.
Lessons Learned and Friendships Forged
Beyond her thoughts on *Congo*, Linney also discussed the invaluable lessons she learned while working alongside directing legend Clint Eastwood on three occasions. She emphasised the importance of camaraderie in her profession, citing friendships with actors such as Liam Neeson and Holland Taylor, and how these relationships have enriched her career.
Currently, Linney stars in *American Classic*, a new series featuring Kevin Kline as a narcissistic Broadway star returning to his roots to revive his family’s theatre after a public scandal. The series is now available for streaming on MGM+, showcasing her enduring versatility and commitment to compelling storytelling.
Why it Matters
Linney’s reflections serve as a reminder that the journey through the film industry is often as significant as the accolades. Her candid acknowledgment of *Congo* demonstrates an embracing of failure and the lessons that come with it—an important lesson for aspiring actors everywhere. It highlights that every role, no matter how panned, contributes to an artist’s growth and resilience, ultimately shaping their unique narrative in the ever-evolving landscape of cinema.
