Since her role as the veritable first lady in Jackie in 2016, Nata Natalie Portman has slipped slightly off the radar, putting out strong performances in indie releases like Vox Lux, but largely avoiding up the spotlight. But that’s all about to change: Todd Haynes’ brilliant new drama May December follows an ambitious actor researching her upcoming controversial role. The story of The Woman (Julianne Moore), a 41 year-old Hollywood stalwart firmly back in the awards conversation.
Of course, her Oscar path began at the film’s Cannes premiere, where she dazzled the critics with her grim, flirtatious stance and adorned her gorgeous Dior Ball gowns stunned the assembled crowd. It wasn’t the only sparkly red carpet event that brought her to the Croisette, either. This year, she also joins the long list of celebrities (among them Cate Blanchett, Jessica Chastain and Julia Roberts, to name a few) who have been chosen to present the Trophée Chopard Award, making history The long-established brand’s two annual awards for its most promising rising stars. Its latest recipient? I Wanna Dance with Somebody the extraordinary Naomi Ackie and Good Luck to You, Leo Grande the glamorous Daryl McCormack, They were all in attendance at a lavish celebratory dinner hosted by Portman.
Between her many parties, photo calls and press conferences, we spent five minutes in the sun with Portman — on the drenched rooftop of the Hôtel Martinez in Cannes Discussing her return to the festival, her advice to two young actors, and the ethics of playing real people.
Vogue: The Trophée Chopard has quite an illustrious history. What does it mean to you to present it to these two exceptional actors?
Natalie Portman : in my profession Being able to encourage and support other talents in their careers and seeing these young actors – Naomi and Daryl – and everything they’ve got is just so exciting. It’s amazing what their work has achieved. They are all such incredible performers. It was a pleasure to get to know them as people, and when you think about the iconic roles they’ve played so far, you can imagine what they’ll go on to do. As for Chopard, it’s great to see the company’s dedication to film and artists, and the way they really celebrate and elevate young people. They choose to use their power to do a great thing.
