Aimee Lou Wood, known for her roles in *The White Lotus* and *Sex Education*, recently opened up about a pivotal moment on the set of her upcoming film *Anxious People*. In an interview with *Harper’s Bazaar*, Wood discussed how she found her voice while filming alongside the acclaimed actress **Angelina Jolie**.
While working on an emotionally charged scene, Wood experienced anxiety due to the chaotic environment created by shouting crew members. She expressed her need for clarity by requesting “one direction, one voice, and no hand movements in my line of sight.” Wood reflected on her past struggles with voicing her needs, stating, “I’ve spent years feeling unable to say anything like that for fear of seeming argumentative – but now I feel like I can take ownership of what I need to thrive.”
In a moment that left a lasting impression, Wood noticed Jolie giving her a thumbs up, which she described as incredibly reassuring. “She’s possibly the most famous woman ever, but she’s so normal,” Wood remarked, highlighting the camaraderie they shared during filming.
Breaking Patterns and Embracing Confidence
Wood’s journey toward self-advocacy extended beyond the film set. She also addressed her recent experience on *Saturday Night Live*, where she confronted a parody that mocked her character, Chelsea. The sketch, which aired in April, featured cast member Sarah Sherman impersonating Wood with exaggerated teeth. This portrayal came after Wood had openly discussed her frustration with the ongoing conversation surrounding her appearance.
“I felt like I was breaking a pattern of not standing up to childhood bullies,” Wood said, emphasizing the cathartic nature of her response. As she gains more recognition, Wood remains aware of the mental health challenges that can accompany fame.
In her candid remarks, Wood described Los Angeles as “emotionally bulimic,” drawing from her personal experiences with disordered eating. She elaborated, “It is this super-sized adventure where everyone’s talking about you all the time, and you have to talk about yourself all the time. And then I leave, and I want to throw it all up.” Her honesty sheds light on the complexities of navigating the entertainment industry.
Upcoming Projects and Future Endeavors
Wood’s career is on a promising trajectory, with her recent casting as **Pattie Boyd** in **Sam Mendes’** upcoming film, *The Beatles — A Four-Film Cinematic Event*. The actress is set to portray Boyd, who was famously linked to musicians **George Harrison** and **Eric Clapton**.
Her role in *Anxious People*, alongside Jolie, tells the story of an investment banker named **Zara**, who finds herself unexpectedly mingling with strangers during an open house on Christmas Eve. The situation escalates when a reluctant bank robber, played by Wood, inadvertently takes the group hostage. The film addresses themes of chaos, secrets, and human connection, showcasing the complexities of life.
As Wood continues to navigate her career, her insights into personal growth and self-advocacy resonate deeply, reflecting a broader conversation about mental health and the importance of speaking up in both personal and professional settings.
