At a time when typecasting is common, Jenna Ortega has established herself as a versatile force in the entertainment industry. Known for her captivating performances in Netflix’s Wednesday and Paramount Pictures’ Scream series, Ortega has rapidly become a favorite among both critics and fans. Yet, it’s her recent revelation that has people talking—an aspiration to portray none other than Joan of Arc, a stark contrast to the modern, edgy characters she’s known for.
From Contemporary Scream Queen to Medieval Martyr
In a landscape where young actors often stick to a successful formula, Jenna Ortega is charting a different course. In a candid conversation with Letterboxd, Ortega expressed her admiration for classic films and the profound impact they have on her. Citing movies like La Haine and Barry Lyndon as influential, Ortega’s eclectic taste underscores her deep connection to storytelling that challenges and transcends.
“I think that’s why I am thinking of it now.”
Ortega’s declaration of Joan of Arc as her dream role during the interview highlights her readiness to delve into more demanding and historically significant characters. Joan of Arc, the legendary French heroine known for her role in the Hundred Years’ War, is celebrated for her unyielding bravery and tragic end—themes that are a departure from Ortega’s previous roles.
“Renee Falconetti’s performance in that is absolutely insane.”
Ortega’s fascination with The Passion of Joan of Arc—a 1928 silent film masterpiece praised for its pioneering technique and emotional performance by Renee Falconetti—further illustrates her aspiration to explore complex and challenging roles. This iconic film not only revolutionized the portrayal of historical figures in cinema but also continues to inspire actors and filmmakers today, including Ortega.
Beyond the Shadows of Her Gothic Alter Egos
While audiences adore her as the brooding Wednesday Addams and the resilient Tara Carpenter, Ortega’s interest in playing Joan of Arc reveals her ambition to evolve beyond contemporary settings and into the realms of historical drama. Portraying a character as rich and enduring as Joan of Arc would require Ortega to shed the gothic and quirky nuances of her well-known personas in favor of a role steeped in courage, faith, and martyrdom.
What This Means for Jenna Ortega’s Future
Jenna Ortega’s desire to tackle the role of Joan of Arc may well set the stage for a new chapter in her career, one that aligns with her love for impactful cinema and her ambition to push her own artistic boundaries. As Ortega continues to make waves with current projects like Beetlejuice 2 and Wednesday on Netflix, her journey towards more profound, historically impactful roles is something both critics and audiences await with keen interest.
This bold move could not only expand her repertoire but also challenge the industry’s perception of young talent, positioning Jenna Ortega as a pioneer among her peers, ready to bridge the gap between historical reverence and contemporary appeal.