It seems like there’s a lot of you in Leila’s character: her freedom, her outspokenness… Do you confirm?
Saïda Jawad : There is always a little bit of me in the characters I play! But, it is true that in Leila’s, I particularly enjoyed being much closer to my nature.
What is the atmosphere like filming Captain Marleau?
The atmosphere is both studious and dense. It was very enriching! I was looking forward to being under the direction of Josée Dayan. Looking forward to approaching his way of working with actors, and also looking forward to learning from his experience behind the camera. Every day, I was like a student, learning, I really enjoyed it. Then, there is Josée’s energy, her temperament, her cinematographic culture, her love for actors, she is passionate, it was a real treat. I can tell you that, without hesitation for a second, I will go back for her and she knows it (laughing)
Corinne Masiero has a reputation for being rough… Like you…?
We both have one thing in common, it’s being Ch’tis, so we’re definitely natural (laughing). I was born in Roubaix, she lived there for many years. I am just as attached to my region as she is.
Saïda Jawad: her face to face with Corinne Masiero
How did your face to face meetings go?
Just like with my other comrades, I really enjoyed filming with Corinne. She has the particularity of improvising, and I loved that. I felt in my element, at home. She is very creative, both in the texts and in the game, and it becomes a real pleasure to be face to face with her.
Tell us about your collaboration with David Hallyday…
I arrived a week after the start of filming because I was working on another film: love is overrated. The group of friends that we form in the film had already been formed outside of filming during that week. But, very quickly, I was part of the group. And, with David, it went very well. He is a conscientious, studious and hard-working person. Really good playmate.
What image did you have of him?
I had the image of a humble, discreet, sincere person and very passionate about his art.
Saïda Jawad will soon be on the poster Love is overrated
This role of Leila comes at an important moment in your career where you want other roles, other characters?
All the roles I have played have been important to me. And I always have this curiosity, this desire to explore other characters, other roles. It’s so enjoyable to slip into someone else’s skin, to give them body and life.
Does theater still have an important place in your career? `
Oh yes. Besides, I have just written a play where two women from different generations confront each other. And I must say that the confrontation is quite tough.
In January you will be starring in the film L’amour, c’est surcôté with Hakim Jemili, Laura Felpin and Benjamin Tranié. We would love to see you doing stand-up…
Really ? So, that’s an idea!
