Salma Hayek has proved she is much, much more than just a pretty face after her directorial debut received a rapturous reception at the Sundance Film Festival. The movie, entitled The Maldonado Miracle received a standing ovation from an audience of her Hollywood peers when it premiered at the event.
The actress said she was honoured by the applause and that Hollywood needs more female filmmakers: "We are the ultimate directors, because we are more nurturing. Our approach to leadership is different. I know everybody by name. I include everybody in the process," she said.
"You know, she never carried a script with her. She had it all up here," said the movie's star Peter Fonda, pointing to his head.
The film examines the media furore that erupts when a statue of Jesus starts bleeding in a small Catholic town on the US-Mexican border. "What is most interesting to me are the miracles we experience every day, when we have a little bit of hope," said the actress. "To me a Christ bleeding is a useless miracle. How is it going to help?"
The Mexican star is riding the crest of a wave at the moment, after receiving rave reviews for her portrayal of South American artist Frida Kahlo in the big-screen biography Frida. She received a Golden Globe nomination for her performance and is also considered a strong contender for this year's best actress Oscar.
While it was Nicole Kidman who took the award at the Globes, Salma says she was not disappointed at having to settle for runner-up. "Just seeing my name among those other nominees already gave me what I want," she said.
"What I really want is respect as an actress so that I can have the opportunity to do films that are interesting to me." After the applause she received at Sundance, there can be little doubt that she's earned all the respect she could hope for.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
