Veteran actress Jodie Foster has shed light on the unexpected origins of one of her most memorable film roles, revealing that the lead in the 2005 thriller 'Flightplan' was initially intended for a man. Sean Penn was reportedly in line for the part before Foster intervened, suggesting a pivotal change that she believed would significantly improve the narrative.
Foster, now 63, recounted in a recent interview that she acquired the script after Penn's departure from the project. It was then that she proposed the idea of making the protagonist a woman. Her rationale was that a female lead would allow the film to delve into themes of 'female hysteria' – a concept she felt would resonate more profoundly with audiences. She noted that a male character would likely not face the same level of doubt regarding their sanity when asserting a perceived reality.
'Flightplan' sees Foster portray Kyle, a distraught mother whose daughter seemingly vanishes during a transatlantic flight. Her claims are met with scepticism, with initial suggestions that her daughter was never on board the aircraft at all. The film's eventual resolution vindicates Kyle, revealing a complex kidnapping and extortion plot, underscoring the ordeal of a woman whose truth is initially dismissed.
Foster expressed pride in her portrayal and the character's journey, stating that the arc of a woman who isn't believed is particularly poignant. She highlighted the film's ending, where her daughter, after being rescued, asks, 'Are we there yet?' as emblematic of the challenges many women face: overcoming significant obstacles only for everyday demands to quickly resume.
Currently, Foster is promoting her latest cinematic endeavour, 'A Private Life'. Directed by Rebecca Zlotowski, this mystery thriller marks a significant turn for the actress, as she performs entirely in French. In the film, Foster plays Lilian Steiner, a Parisian psychiatrist who suspects foul play behind what is initially believed to be a patient's suicide. 'Flightplan' is available to stream in the UK on Disney+.