Michelle Williams doesn’t have much time. I mean, she really doesn’t have much time. The two-time Academy Award nominated actress landed in Los Angeles just a few hours ago and now has only one hour, yes, just one hour to do interviews with a slew of waiting reporters at the always bustling Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills. it won’t be long before Williams has to walk the red carpet at the premiere of “My Week with Marilyn” at AFI Fest that evening and when her people say she only has an hour they aren’t kidding. My specific warning before sitting down with the best actress contender: Just two questions with the always charming Ms. Williams. Eke. I better make them good.
Needless to say, it was a much different story a year ago when I sat down for a much longer and more intimate chat regarding her acclaimed work in “Blue Valentine.” But with Williams still busy filming Sam Raimi’s “Oz: The Great and Powerful” with James Franco, the luxury of an in-depth conversation about her turn portraying the iconic Marilyn Monroe isn’t going to happen (for anyone). When I first sat down across from a beaming Williams, she asked me, “Are you ready to speed date?” I’m not sure if I passed the test, but it was a cheerful 2 1/2 minutes I likely won’t forget.
To find out Williams thoughts about playing one of her childhood icons and the agony of “over thinking” a role watch the interview embedded above. Oh, and note for all you Hollywood producers and directors out there who are likely to be blown away by Ms. Williams singing talents in “Marilyn,” she’d love to appear in a movie musical. Really.
For more on Williams transformation as Monroe, check out an intriguing look at the actress getting into character on set and during a special photo shoot for photographer Brigitte Lacombe.
“My Week with Marilyn” is now playing in limited release across the country.
For year round entertainment commentary and awards season news follow @HitFixGregory on Twitter.