Natalie Portman’s children prefer not to watch her performances in major films, including her well-known roles in the Star Wars franchise, a choice the actress respects. The 44-year-old, who shares son Aleph, 14, and daughter Amelia, eight, with her former husband Benjamin Millepied, explained their reluctance to view her movies during an interview at The Gallerist premiere at Sundance.
Portman’s Explanation for Her Kids’ Viewing Preferences
Portman told E! News,
“My kids are so resistant to seeing anything that I’m in.”
She added,
“I was always like, ‘Yeah, if you want to see it, like if some of your friends have seen it or whatever.’ And they were like ‘No, thanks.’”
The actress revealed that her children prefer to see her as their mother rather than through the lens of her screen characters.
She elaborated,
“They kind of just want to see me as me, which I appreciate.”
Interest in Animated Movie ‘Arlo’ and Its Themes
Despite their disinterest in her acting roles, Portman’s kids showed enthusiasm for the animated film Arlo, which she produced. The movie recently received an Oscar nomination and addresses themes that resonate with children, according to Portman. She discussed how the film’s futuristic elements sparked thoughtful discussions with her children.
Portman said,
“The story raised so many interesting conversations from why the parents are holograms and not at home to, of course, the climate challenges that the kids face in it, to some of the solutions that the kids come up with, like ‘Is that really possible in life, living on platforms above the earth to let the earth rest?’”
“Things like that are amazing conversations I got to have with the kids because of the movie,”
she added.
The Film’s Impact and Relevance to Young Viewers
Portman described Arlo as a story that deals respectfully with important issues facing children today. She emphasized the movie’s hopeful tone and encouragement of imagination for young audiences.
“The story dealt with very pressing issues and offered so much inspiration and hope and encouragement of imagination for children,”
she said.
She further noted,
“I think that it takes kids very seriously. It doesn’t try and gloss over things. Kids are living through all of these experiences right now, and I think need to be talked to with a lot of respect.”
Significance of Portman’s Comments on Parenting and Fame
Portman’s reflections highlight the balance she seeks as a mother and a public figure, respecting her children’s desire to separate her real-life identity from her on-screen roles. Her openness about her children’s perspective offers insight into how celebrity parents navigate family dynamics in the spotlight. The actress’s involvement in meaningful projects like Arlo suggests a focus on creating content that aligns with her family’s values and invites thoughtful engagement.
