Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek have long been icons in Hollywood, each bringing their unique talents and presence to the screen for decades. Their paths, while distinct, have frequently overlapped, leading to collaborations that not only highlight their individual strengths but also their deep connection as artists.
Credits: Salma Hayek and Angelina Jolie in Eternal Stare Off | Marvel Entertainment/YouTube
As they come together for another project, their relationship has evolved in unexpected and profound ways, giving audiences a glimpse into the magic that happens when two creative forces unite on a deeper level. This latest chapter in their collaboration reveals a remarkable shift, one that brings their partnership full circle, leaving a lasting impact on both their careers and the stories they tell.
Angelina Jolie Directing Salma Hayek: A Beautiful Collaboration
Salma Hayek in From Dusk Till Dawn / Miramax
Angelina Jolie, known for her humanitarian work and powerful roles in films, has evolved into a highly respected director over the years. Her latest endeavor, Without Blood, based on Alessandro Baricco’s 2002 novel, sees Jolie not only as a storyteller but as a guide who provides her actors with space to shine.
Salma Hayek, who plays the lead in the film alongside Demián Bichir, was taken aback by Jolie’s warmth and generosity on set, and she expressed the same during an interview with People.
I was surprised, even though we are very close and stuff, but I was [surprised by] how warm and generous and kind she was as a director to the actors. I’ve worked with great directors that are really focused, but maybe because she’s also an actress… everything that maybe she wished somebody would’ve done for her, she did for us.
Hayek, an actress with an illustrious career, has worked with a variety of top-tier directors, but she highlighted Jolie’s distinctive approach. Their collaboration in Without Blood marked a different dynamic compared to their time together in Eternals, where Hayek played Ajak, the maternal figure of the group, while Jolie portrayed the fierce warrior, Thena.
The Journey from Eternals to Without Blood
Angelina Jolie as supermodel Gia Carangi in the 1998 biopic Gia | image: HBO Films
The connection between Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek began in Marvel’s Eternals, a film that brought together an ensemble cast and introduced viewers to a new group of immortal heroes. Hayek’s portrayal of Ajak, a nurturing and wise leader, set the stage for her longtime association with Jolie.
In Eternals, Hayek was, in a sense, the ‘mother’ of the group, offering guidance and wisdom to her fellow immortals. Off-screen, this bond mirrored the dynamic between the two actresses, with Hayek often acting as a grounding presence for Jolie, who was navigating her own character’s complex emotional and psychological struggles.
However, with Without Blood, the tables turned, and as Hayek took on a challenging role in the intense drama, Jolie stepped into the director’s chair, guiding her friend through a difficult and emotionally taxing performance. The film, which deals with themes of war, trauma, and survival, allowed Hayek to delve deep into her emotional range.
After so many years, to feel that somebody really listened really saw me, really created a safe space for me, really embraced me, really admired my talent, and let me know… I discovered things about myself as an actress.
Hayek credited Jolie’s directing style for creating a safe and nurturing space on set. She added that working with Jolie allowed her to access emotions and performances she hadn’t previously explored.
The collaboration between Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek has evolved, blossoming into a powerful artistic partnership. From their roles in Eternals to their work on Without Blood, the two have formed a deep bond that seems to extend beyond the screen. As they continue to work together, both women have expressed a deep respect for the other’s craft.
You can watch Eternals on Disney+, and Without Blood is currently in theatres.
