Getting a chance to be a part of the adaptation of the novel War and Peace by the Russian author Leo Tolstoy is a dream-come-true for many. No wonder English actress Lily James, having played Natasha Rostova, is proud of being a part of the six-part of the historical period drama television series. She shares with us, some of the unforgettable experiences from the show.
Tell us about Natasha?
I agree with Andrew Davies, the writer of the show, that Natasha is the most lovable romantic character in literature. As she goes on an enormous journey from child to woman, you can see all her flaws. She’s very unabashed, but in spite of that, you still really like her because she has a huge heart and a beautiful soul. She’s such a vast character to portray — I love Natasha so much and it’s such a joy trying to bring her to life.
What is her relationship with her family like?
Natasha loves her family and she is incredibly close to her brother and to Sonya. The only sadness is that when she gets so lost and wrapped up in her own world and her own trauma, she loses her family for a while.
How did you and Paul Dano play the scenes between Natasha and Pierre?
Paul is great to work with, but it’s still a difficult relationship to portray. How do we tap into the undeniable connection they have without them knowing it? When Pierre walks into a room, Natasha is instantly drawn to him!
What are Natasha’s costumes like?
I wouldn’t have been able to play Natasha without these wonderful costumes. I’ve loved wearing her flowing dresses — funnily enough, you actually feel more freedom in those than you do in jeans!
Tell us about the locations you filmed in.
The locations we’ve been to have been mind-blowing. When we were in Russia, we filmed at Catherine’s Palace, outside the Winter Palace. James and I also filmed a lot of beautiful romantic scenes in the snow. I’ve never seen locations like it that were actually real. When we filmed the ball in Catherine’s Palace, I walked in and was stunned and silenced.
Why do you think Tolstoy such a great writer?
Because he always finds the core of a character. He hones in on what’s important and universal, which is why War & Peace is such a classic. People always say this, but it feels very relevant. That’s why great books are great books.
(War & Peace airs on Zee Café every Monday at 10 pm)
