Wes Anderson‘s attempts to cast Jodie Foster in films have faced ongoing challenges, as revealed by the director himself in a recent interview. Despite Anderson’s celebrated filmography and his knack for assembling star-studded ensembles, Foster has consistently declined his invitations to join his cinematic worlds.
Longstanding Efforts to Cast Foster
For more than thirty years, Wes Anderson has captivated audiences with his unique visual flair and storytelling, attracting top-tier actors such as Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, and Angelica Huston, who have eagerly returned to work with him on multiple occasions. Yet, Anderson disclosed that despite repeated efforts, two-time Oscar winner Jodie Foster remains elusive.
“Over the years, I had so many movies that I tried to get Jodie Foster to be in,”
Anderson revealed in a Tuesday interview with Collider, underscoring his persistent pursuit.
The director further explained the extent of his outreach by stating,
“It used to be every movie, we went to Jodie Foster for a part. And I think I did it three movies in a row, maybe four. And I met her, and I liked her. And I thought it was going to get her. And I think she’s just great, Jodie Foster,”
said The Phoenician Scheme director, who has earned an Academy Award himself. Despite mutual admiration and personal meetings, the collaboration has never materialized.
Why Foster Has Turned Down the Roles
Although Anderson did not disclose the exact films for which Foster was approached, he shared insights into the dynamic and his enduring admiration for Foster’s talent. Anderson noted his appreciation for her performance both as an actor and director, especially highlighting her work in “Little Man Tate,” where she portrays a mother.
“She has this real sparkle. She has a lightness in it. It’s just a different kind of character,”
Anderson shared, underlining what draws him to her artistry.
Despite this admiration, Foster’s personal approach to choosing roles has kept her from joining Anderson’s casts. Anderson explained his perspective:
“I still would like to get Jodie Foster. But I guess after asking few times, I thought maybe I’m not — I think sometimes somebody has an idea of the kind of work they want to do at that time in his or her life, and we weren’t right.”
This acknowledgement reflects an understanding that timing and creative direction may not always align between filmmakers and actors.
Even with repeated rejections, Anderson remains effusive about Foster’s abilities, adding, “She’s pretty amazing.”
Ensemble Casts and The Phoenician Scheme
Wes Anderson is renowned for assembling dynamic ensembles, with his films regularly featuring an array of acclaimed actors. His latest project, “The Phoenician Scheme,” continues this tradition by gathering an impressive cast, including Benicio del Toro, Michael Cera, Riz Ahmed, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Mathieu Amalric, Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, Richard Ayoade, Benedict Cumberbatch, Rupert Friend, and Hope Davis. These distinguished performers enhance Anderson’s reputation for collaborative storytelling and rich character interplay.
In this new film, Benicio del Toro takes on the role of industrialist Anatole Zsa-Zsa Korda. Del Toro, a veteran of many cinematic productions, reflected on working with Anderson. He stated,
“been doing movies for a long time,”
and mentioned,
“one sequence in the movie when you see it where it’s like, wow.”
Del Toro described the filming of the hypnotic, slow-motion opening credits, shot from overhead, saying,
“That’s one of those things that you think you’ve figured it all out. And here I am doing another movie with a great director, and he’s telling me to do this, and I go home, and I’m glad I was a prune for about five days after that sequence. It’s just really a cool sequence.”
—Benicio del Toro, Actor
An Enduring Creative Pursuit
Wes Anderson’s admiration for Jodie Foster signals his ongoing commitment to assembling ensembles filled with acclaimed talent. Though Foster has thus far chosen other paths, Anderson’s respect for her artistry remains steadfast. His continued pursuit of collaboration with some of the industry’s finest performers, including Foster, highlights his dedication to creative exploration and innovation. As “The Phoenician Scheme” brings another round of celebrated actors to the forefront, audiences may yet see if Anderson’s persistent invitations will one day lead to Foster joining his remarkable lineups.
