Cher opened up in a candid interview with The Times while promoting her new memoir, “Cher: The Memoir Part 1.” Reflecting on her illustrious career, she shared her experiences working with directors, noting two in particular that did not leave a favorable impression on her: Peter Bogdanovich and Frank Oz, known for his work on “The Muppets.” Cher collaborated with Bogdanovich on the 1985 film “Mask,” which earned her an Oscar for Best Actress at Cannes, while Oz directed her in the 1990 film “Mermaids.”
Cher recounted a significant moment during the filming of “Mermaids” when she felt compelled to take action. She remembered having a confrontation with Oz, stating, “I said, either you’re going or I’m going,” despite acknowledging his talent as a director. Her comments suggest there was a disconnect in their working relationship.
Her experience with Bogdanovich on “Mask” was notably more challenging. The film is based on the true story of Rocky Dennis, a boy with a rare genetic disorder. Cher played his troubled mother, which brought her critical acclaim. However, she described Bogdanovich as “an asshole” and recounted a tense interaction where he undermined her contributions. She said, “He was not nice to the girls in the film and he was so fucking arrogant,” emphasizing her frustrations with his demeanor.
Despite these difficult encounters, Cher characterized herself as being easy to work with, highlighting her respect for other notable directors like Bob Altman and Mike Nichols, suggesting that cooperation and communication are key to a successful working relationship.
Cher’s memoir is now available, offering fans an intimate glimpse into her life and career. For those interested in exploring her experiences further, her full interview with The Times is available online.
In summary, Cher’s revelations paint a vivid picture of her experiences in the film industry, reminding us that navigating professional relationships can be challenging, even for icons. There’s an optimistic note in her story, as she emphasizes collaboration and the importance of working harmoniously with those she respects in her craft. Cher’s honesty in addressing her experiences not only resonates with her fans but also inspires upcoming artists faced with similar challenges in their careers.