Laura Dern on Balancing Purpose and Performance in Hollywood

Laura Dern's latest projects showcase her fearless approach to acting, but in a conversation with the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, the Oscar-winning actress reveals a more introspective side, prioritizing purpose over performance. As she prepares to release two films this fall, Dern opens up about her experiences working with Adam Sandler and Will Arnett, her family legacy, and the highly anticipated third season of 'Big Little Lies'. Dern's career has been a testament to her versatility and dedication to her craft. From her breakout role in David Lynch's 'Wild at Heart' to her Oscar-winning performance in 'Marriage Story', she has consistently pushed the boundaries of her acting abilities. However, in a conversation with the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, Dern reveals a more introspective side, one that prioritizes purpose over performance. "I've been fortunate enough to have had a career that's allowed me to explore different roles and genres, but at the end of the day, it's not just about the performance," Dern says. "It's about showing up for what matters, whether that's a film, a cause, or a community." One of Dern's latest projects is a film she worked on with Adam Sandler, a collaboration that may seem unexpected given their vastly different styles. However, Dern reveals that she was drawn to the project because of its unique blend of humor and heart. "Adam is a true original, and I love his sense of humor," Dern says. "He's not afraid to take risks and try new things, and that's something that I admire about him." Dern also opens up about her experience working with Will Arnett, a fellow actor and comedian who is known for his quick wit and sharp tongue. However, Dern reveals that Arnett's humor and kindness made him a joy to work with. "Will is a true gentleman, and I was so impressed by his generosity and kindness on set," Dern says. "He's a true professional, and I think that's something that's often overlooked in the industry." In addition to her film work, Dern is also known for her role as Renata Klein on the hit HBO series 'Big Little Lies'. The show, which follows the lives of a group of mothers and their families in a small coastal town, has become a cultural phenomenon, and Dern's performance as the complex and nuanced Renata has been widely praised. However, Dern reveals that she is hesitant to discuss the show's highly anticipated third season, citing a desire to keep the details under wraps. "I think it's best to let the show speak for itself," Dern says. "I'm excited to see where the story goes, but I don't want to give anything away just yet." Dern's family legacy is also a topic of interest, as her mother, Diane Ladd, is also an actress and her father, Bruce Dern, is a veteran actor who has appeared in a wide range of films. However, Dern reveals that she has always tried to forge her own path, rather than following in her family's footsteps. "I think that's a common misconception about me," Dern says. "People think that I'm just following in my family's footsteps, but the truth is, I've always tried to carve out my own path and make my own way in the industry." As Dern prepares to release two films this fall, she is more focused on the impact that her work can have on society than on her own personal success. She believes that as actors, they have a responsibility to use their platform to raise awareness about important issues and to promote positive change. "I think that's one of the most important things that we can do as actors," Dern says. "We have a platform, and we should use it to make a difference." In conclusion, Laura Dern's latest projects showcase her fearless approach to acting, but also reveal a more introspective side, one that prioritizes purpose over performance. As she prepares to release two films this fall, Dern is more focused on the impact that her work can have on society than on her own personal success. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to using her platform for good are a testament to her enduring legacy as an actress and a role model.