British actor Rupert Everett recently received the prestigious Star of the Mole award at the Lovers Film Festival in Turin, Italy. This recognition marks a significant moment for both Everett’s career and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ representation in cinema.
A Star Honored: The Star of the Mole Award and Everett’s Legacy
The Lovers Film Festival, known as Europe’s oldest LGBTQ+ film festival, presented Everett with the Star of the Mole award. This honor recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on cinema and society. Past recipients include luminaries like Oliver Stone, Tim Burton, and Monica Bellucci.
Everett’s acceptance of the award highlights his long-standing commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility. He came out publicly in 1989, a bold move for an actor at the time. This decision, coupled with his talent, paved the way for more open representation in film.
A Look Back: “Another Country” and the Dawn of a Career
Everett’s career began with a bang. His role as a double agent in the 1984 film “Another Country” left a lasting impression. The film, based on the play of the same name, explored themes of homosexuality and espionage in a British boarding school setting. “Another Country” not only launched Everett’s career but also resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community.
At the Lovers Film Festival, Everett participated in a discussion about the film’s 40th anniversary and its enduring impact. He expressed his continued pride in the project, particularly its significance for the LGBTQ+ audience.
Beyond Acting: Exploring Directing and Facing Challenges
While renowned for his acting, Everett has also ventured into directing. His directorial debut, “The Happy Prince,” premiered in 2018. During the festival, he spoke openly about the challenges of securing funding for his projects. This candid conversation sheds light on the difficulties faced by independent filmmakers, particularly those with unconventional narratives.
Everett also discussed his admiration for various directors he’s collaborated with, including Ridley Scott, Tim Burton, and Andrej Konchalovsky. However, he acknowledged a less positive experience working with director Mike Newell on “Dance with a Stranger.” This honest reflection adds another layer to the complex tapestry of filmmaking.
Beauty, Aging, and Finding Solace
The conversation delved into the role of physical appearance in Everett’s career. He acknowledged the initial advantage of his youthful good looks but emphasized his current focus on other aspects of his life. Living in rural England with his dogs and aging mother provides him with a sense of peace and fulfillment beyond the glitz of Hollywood.
This shift in perspective offers a relatable message about aging and finding happiness outside the spotlight.
