In 1994, the gothic drama “Interview with the Vampire” not only redefined vampire lore but also introduced audiences to a new cinematic sensation—Kirsten Dunst. At the tender age of 12, Dunst delivered a performance that would forever alter her career trajectory. Behind her memorable role, however, lies a tale of an unlikely advocate: Tom Cruise.
From the outset, “Interview with the Vampire” was set to be a blockbuster with Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt leading the cast. Yet, it was Kirsten Dunst, a young actress with just a few minor roles under her belt, who stole the spotlight. Dunst herself has shed light on the pivotal role Cruise played in her landing the part. During the auditions, Cruise was not just a passive observer but an active participant, keen on ensuring that Dunst got her shot at stardom.
Dunst recalls Cruise’s strategic advice during her audition, intended to make her appear as small as possible, a crucial factor given her height compared to the other young actresses. Cruise’s involvement went beyond mere suggestions; he even assisted physically during the auditions to gauge how the candidates would look next to him. Dunst vividly remembers the encouragement she received from Cruise, who shared her New Jersey roots, “He was kind of, like, rooting for me. We were both from New Jersey, and I think, you know, he was like, ‘Let this Jersey girl have it.'”
An Unforgettable Kiss with Brad Pitt
While Dunst’s casting story is filled with supportive gestures from Cruise, her on-screen interaction with Brad Pitt brought its own set of challenges and peculiarities. At just 12 years old, Dunst had to navigate the awkwardness of filming a kiss with Pitt, who was then 31 years old and playing her vampire suitor. Reflecting on that moment, Dunst did not mince words, describing the kiss as “gross.” Her candidness about the experience highlights the surreal nature of her role, “It would have been so much creepier if an 11-year-old was like, ‘It was great.’ You’d be like, ‘There’s something wrong with this child.'”
Despite the bizarre circumstances of her character’s relationship, Dunst found a familial comfort with Pitt and Cruise on set. They treated her like a little sister, guiding her through the complexities of the film’s production. This sense of camaraderie extended off-camera as well, with Cruise going the extra mile to make Dunst feel at home during the filming. She fondly recalls a Christmas gesture from Cruise, who surprised her with a beautifully decorated tree in her dressing room at Pinewood Studios.
The Legacy of “Interview with the Vampire”
“Interview with the Vampire” remains a significant work, not just for its innovative take on vampire mythology but for its detailed portrayal of complex, immortal characters grappling with existential dilemmas. Adapted from Anne Rice’s novel, the film explores themes of morality, loneliness, and the burdens of immortality, with Pitt’s Louis and Cruise’s Lestat bringing these conflicts to life.
For Kirsten Dunst, the film was more than just another role; it was a profound learning experience and a career-defining moment, supported significantly by Tom Cruise’s faith in her potential. This story of mentorship and support behind the scenes adds a rich layer to the film’s history, reminding us of the collaborative spirit that often drives Hollywood’s most successful projects.