Kenneth Branagh has lauded Jodie Comer by comparing her to Hollywood icon Meryl Streep, expressing his admiration for the actress following their collaboration in the upcoming psychological thriller, The Last Disturbance of Madeline Hynde. In an interview with The Times, Branagh shared how fortunate he feels to have worked with the 32-year-old star at this pivotal moment in her career. He echoed sentiments reminiscent of praise once directed at a young Streep, remarking, “I wish I had shares in her future.”
Jodie Comer, known for her role as the enigmatic assassin Villanelle in the acclaimed series Killing Eve, responded graciously to Branagh’s high praise, stating, “He is very kind… Bless him.” The film is scheduled for release next year and stars a talented ensemble cast, including Patricia Arquette, Michael Sheen, Tom Bateman, and Vicky McClure. While Branagh kept specific plot details under wraps, he teased intriguing elements about Comer’s character, hinting at themes such as “dark night of the soul” and “reckless emotional exposure.”
Comer’s impressive career has been marked by numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award and BAFTA TV Awards. Her versatility shone in the stage play Prima Facie, for which she received both an Olivier and a Tony Award. Beyond television and theater, she has also starred alongside Matt Damon and Ben Affleck in Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel, and currently, she is captivating audiences with her performance in Danny Boyle’s 28 Years Later, a sequel to the 2002 horror classic.
During the interviews, Comer reflected on the balance between her career and personal life, remarking on the industry’s trend to glorify self-sacrifice during award seasons, a sentiment that resonates with many artists. She prefers to maintain her boundaries, underscoring the importance of wellbeing over relentless ambition.
Branagh’s comparison of Comer to Streep not only highlights the rising star’s potential but also serves as a reminder of the need for artists to prioritize their mental health and happiness, regardless of external pressures. With the anticipation surrounding The Last Disturbance of Madeline Hynde, it’s clear that Jodie Comer’s remarkable journey in Hollywood is just beginning, and her future looks promising.