Kate Winslet has expressed that female filmmakers face greater challenges in entering the directing realm compared to their male counterparts. The Oscar-winning actress recently made her directorial debut with the film “Goodbye June” and highlighted the “judgment and scrutiny” that women encounter in this role.
In an interview on Fearne Cotton’s “Happy Place” podcast, Winslet shared her pride in directing at this stage of her life, particularly after turning 50. She reflected on the ease with which many male actors transition into directing with minimal judgment, contrasting it with the experience for women, which often involves greater scrutiny. “It feels like for you personally, not only is this an amazing challenge for you to make that switch, but also you’re doing it on behalf of women, to help this cultural shift in the very male-dominated Hollywood directing scene,” Winslet remarked.
“Goodbye June,” penned by Winslet’s son Joe Anders, draws inspiration from her mother’s passing. The narrative unfolds around four adult siblings and their father as they come together during their mother’s declining health, highlighting family dynamics during difficult times. The film features a talented cast, including Dame Helen Mirren, who plays the role of June, along with Toni Collette, Johnny Flynn, Andrea Riseborough, and Timothy Spall.
During production, Winslet found herself emotionally affected, frequently recalling her own experiences with loss from when her mother passed away in 2017. She noted, “It wasn’t necessarily cathartic, but there were days when I was literally reliving what happened,” indicating the depth of the film’s personal resonance with her.
Additionally, she mentioned the cultural reluctance among the British to discuss loss openly. Winslet observed that making this film prompted meaningful conversations about grief, both among the cast and crew, fostering a space for connection and healing.
“Goodbye June” is set to be released in select UK cinemas on December 12 and will stream on Netflix starting Christmas Eve. This film not only showcases Winslet’s talents as a director but also contributes to the growing dialogue surrounding women’s roles in the film industry, presenting an opportunity for greater representation and recognition in Hollywood.