Emma Stone, the acclaimed actress and multiple Oscar winner, shared insights into her evolving collaborations with director Yorgos Lanthimos and her experiences surrounding her “Emma Stone Oscar Memories.” Their new project, a Super Bowl commercial for Squarespace, highlights their signature style that blends unconventional storytelling with wide appeal. Stone discussed the nuances of their partnership, her recent dive into technology, and her fascination with extraterrestrial life during an interview ahead of the Sunday game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots.
The Unique Creative Synergy Between Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos
Stone and Lanthimos have repeatedly defied expectations with their work that veers away from typical Hollywood fare. Known for films like The Favourite, Poor Things, and Bugonia, the duo intertwines eccentric narratives with sharp social commentary. Stone’s role as Bella Baxter in Poor Things, a character revived by a mad scientist, earned her one of her two Oscars, while both she and Lanthimos received nominations for Bugonia, a film tackling themes from Big Tech’s coldness to sci-fi conspiracy theories. Their Super Bowl spot continues this tradition, placing Stone in a surreal, Sisyphean scenario on a remote North Sea island that mixes humor with a touch of absurdity.
Discussing what makes their work resonate even with broad audiences, Stone acknowledged Lanthimos’s ability to explore social interactions and societal norms in a way that intrigues and challenges viewers.
“His films are very specific in how they mine social interactions and societal rules. I was fascinated by the stories he’s drawn to and the way he tells them,”
she said, crediting this approach for making complex stories feel accessible.
Life on Set and the Power of Storytelling That Reflects Society
Stone emphasized that despite the sometimes surreal or eccentric nature of their films, the stories always connect to fundamental aspects of being human. They prompt viewers to reflect on societal behaviors and personal perspectives, a quality she deeply values.
“I also like that his work asks you to walk away thinking about things—turning them over in your mind,”
Stone remarked, highlighting her appreciation for art that sparks contemplation.
The actress described her ongoing collaboration with Lanthimos as unexpected yet enriching, dating back to their first meeting in 2015 during the production of The Favourite. Their creative partnership has since taken her to unexpected acting territories, a journey she considers a “real gift.”
Emma Stone’s Recent Technology Shift and Online Preferences
Switching to personal life, Stone revealed a surprising detail: after a decade of relying solely on an iPad and phone, she recently acquired a computer for the first time. This change came after years of managing her production company, Fruit Tree, without one. This shift has influenced her appreciation for web design that works seamlessly on mobile devices.
“I appreciate a website that formats well on a phone, which Squarespace renders beautifully,”
she explained. Stone noted her frustration with sites plagued by cookie pop-ups and poor navigation, which create barriers to easy access. Her preference leans toward cohesive design that caters to users who, like her, do most of their work via mobile.
Unpacking the Alien Elements of Bugonia’s Michelle
Stone reflected on her character Michelle in Bugonia, whose alien nature was signaled through subtle visual cues rather than overt effects. The filmmakers worked on a “flickering-eye” feature to hint at her otherness, but most of these details remained understated or trimmed during editing to keep the mystery intact.
Responding to an observation that Michelle’s eyes had a reptilian quality, Stone said,
“[Laughs] That means a lot. Truly.”
This subtlety aimed to enrich the character’s alien traits while fitting the film’s offbeat tone.
Beliefs About Unusual Theories and the Existence of Life Beyond Earth
When asked about belief in unconventional ideas, Stone distanced herself from extreme actions depicted by some characters but acknowledged an open-minded curiosity.
“I try to stay open-minded, but I don’t go down rabbit holes much anymore,”
she said, adding her belief in extraterrestrial life due to the vastness of the universe.
“It would be crazy if it were just us. I just don’t know what or how that life… is.”
She elaborated on the concept of cosmic time, noting how the starlight we see could come from stars that have long since died. This idea fascinates her and ties back to her childhood interest in astronomy, which once sparked ambitions to become an astronomer.
“I was obsessed with space as a kid,”
Stone shared, underscoring that her fascination with the cosmos remains strong.
KPop Demon Hunters: The Soundtrack of Emma Stone’s Household
Stone revealed that the current musical obsession in her family centers on KPop Demon Hunters. She mentioned the song How It’s Done as a personal favorite, playing on repeat. This playful insight highlights her down-to-earth and relatable side amid her intense Hollywood life.
Reflecting on Oscars: Precious Moments Beyond the Spotlight
Receiving an Oscar nomination again recently led Stone to share a sentimental memory of the ceremony. Rather than focusing on winning or the glitz, she treasures the moments spent with the film crew.
“My favorite moments are in-between—riding together in a van, being with the crew,”
she explained.
“It’s the last night you’ll ever talk about the movie all together as one. That’s what’s special.”
She described the Oscars as a poignant closing chapter for everyone involved in a film’s journey, where emotions run deep because it marks an end to the shared experience.
“If you have the honor of getting there, of attending the Oscars, it’s the end of the road for a film,”
Stone noted.
“That part is emotional and special.”
Looking Ahead: The Impact of a Creative Partnership and Evolving Roles
Emma Stone’s continued collaboration with Yorgos Lanthimos demonstrates how adventurous and thoughtful storytelling can resonate on giant platforms like the Super Bowl. Their work pushes boundaries while revealing truths about human nature. Stone’s openness about her personal growth, technological adaptation, and cosmic curiosity underscores her restless drive to explore and connect with the world.
As audiences anticipate the commercial’s Super Bowl debut, the partnership hints at further daring projects that blend the peculiar with the palatable, reinforcing Stone’s unique niche in contemporary cinema. For fans and followers alike, the continued evolution of her career and creative alliances promises fresh perspectives and compelling performances to come.
