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Academy Award-winning actress Kristin Scott Thomas is stepping out from behind the camera for the first time with her directorial debut, 'My Mother's Wedding.' The film, a semi-autobiographical exploration of her own family history, has generated considerable buzz, and Thomas recently sat down with The Hollywood Reporter to discuss her journey into directing, the challenges and rewards, and the surprising process of casting, including a memorable cold call to Scarlett Johansson.

For decades, Scott Thomas has graced the silver screen with her captivating performances in films like 'The English Patient,' 'Four Weddings and a Funeral,' and 'The Horse Whisperer.' But the desire to direct had been simmering beneath the surface for years. “I find it very difficult to actually not direct,” she confessed to THR. “I’ve been thinking about it for a long time, and I finally felt ready to take the leap.”

My Mother's Wedding delves into the complex relationships within a family, drawing heavily from Thomas’s own experiences. The film centers around a woman grappling with her mother’s impending marriage, a situation that stirs up a whirlwind of emotions and forces her to confront uncomfortable truths about her family’s past. “I wanted to do a personal project,” Thomas explained. “Something that felt authentic and meaningful to me.”

The decision to direct wasn't without its anxieties. Thomas admitted to feeling overwhelmed at times, but also found the process incredibly liberating. “It’s a completely different perspective,” she said. “As an actor, you’re reacting to someone else’s vision. As a director, you’re creating that vision.”

One of the most intriguing anecdotes from Thomas's interview was her approach to casting. Faced with the challenge of finding the right actors to embody her vision, she famously made a cold call to Scarlett Johansson to gauge her interest. While Johansson ultimately wasn't available, the story highlights Thomas's determination and willingness to go the extra mile to assemble the perfect cast. “You have to be bold,” she stated. “You have to put yourself out there and take chances.”

My Mother's Wedding promises to be a poignant and insightful film, offering a glimpse into the life of a remarkable woman and the enduring power of family. Kristin Scott Thomas’s directorial debut is a testament to her talent and a welcome addition to the world of cinema. Audiences can anticipate a deeply personal and emotionally resonant experience, showcasing both Thomas's acting prowess and her burgeoning skills as a director. The film's exploration of familial bonds and personal history is sure to resonate with viewers long after the credits roll.