The One Director Scarlett Johansson Can’t Stop Praising — And Why Their Collaboration Was So Special

Scarlett Johansson’s career spans both the glittering world of blockbuster franchises and the intimate, auteur-driven film scene. As one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood, thanks to her iconic portrayal of Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Johansson has solidified her place in global cinema. Her blockbuster ventures, from Lucy to The Jungle Book, have contributed to a filmography that boasts an astonishing $15.4 billion at the global box office.

But despite her undeniable success in big-budget films, Johansson has consistently sought out smaller, more unique projects with visionary directors. Known for her remarkable versatility, she has become a frequent collaborator with some of the most talented and distinctive auteurs of her generation, including Sofia Coppola, Taika Waititi, Noah Baumbach, and Wes Anderson.

Yet, among her many remarkable partnerships, one director stands out: Jonathan Glazer, the brilliant mind behind the mind-bending sci-fi horror Under the Skin (2013). In an interview with Time Out, Johansson called her experience working with Glazer “unprecedented,” adding that he was “every actor’s dream.”

A Director Like No Other

Scarlett Johansson’s admiration for Jonathan Glazer is evident in her glowing praise. Describing him as “something else, definitely,” Johansson emphasized just how unique and inspiring the experience of working with him was. “Jonathan is – and there’s no bullshitting here – every actor’s dream,” she said. “It was an unprecedented experience for me, working with somebody so insightful and curious.”

Glazer, known for his minimalist yet profoundly impactful filmmaking style, might not have a vast body of work, but his four films—Sexy Beast (2000), Birth (2004), Under the Skin (2013), and The Zone of Interest (2023)—speak for themselves. Each project is as distinct and daring as the next, marked by Glazer’s ability to push boundaries and create atmospheres that linger long after the credits roll. His work is always unpredictable and profoundly emotional, and his approach to filmmaking stands in stark contrast to the more commercial productions Johansson is often associated with.

Under the Skin, in particular, was a revelatory experience for Johansson. The film, a sci-fi thriller based on Michel Faber’s novel, is widely regarded as one of her finest performances. In it, she plays an enigmatic alien seductress who preys on unsuspecting men. The film’s unconventional narrative and chilling atmosphere were perfectly suited to Johansson’s ability to evoke a sense of unease, and much of the film’s eerie mood is attributed to Glazer’s unscripted, improvisational approach to directing.

A Focused Visionary

What made working with Glazer even more special, according to Johansson, was his unwavering commitment to the craft. She recalled a work environment where distractions were nonexistent, noting that she “didn’t think I ever saw him on his phone once.” In an industry where constant communication is often the norm, Glazer’s dedication to the process was something Johansson found refreshing. Despite the intensity of the subject matter and the atmosphere of the film, Glazer’s single-minded focus ensured that every scene felt purposeful and true to his vision.

Glazer’s style has earned him a reputation for creating unforgettable cinematic experiences that are both emotionally and intellectually compelling. In Under the Skin, this approach helped cultivate a sense of existential dread that was heightened by Johansson’s restrained, powerful performance. The film’s unsettling tone and surreal narrative turned what could have been a standard sci-fi horror into an art-house masterpiece, which earned critical acclaim for both Glazer and Johansson.

The Collaborative Dream

For Johansson, working with a director like Glazer was more than just a job—it was a deeply enriching experience that allowed her to stretch as an actor. Her adoration for Glazer’s creative process underscores her desire to collaborate with filmmakers who are both passionate and deliberate in their approach to storytelling. It’s no surprise that she considers working with Glazer as a high point in her illustrious career.

Though Glazer’s filmography remains small, his influence on Johansson and the film industry is undeniable. Each of his films, particularly Under the Skin, continues to be a reference point for filmmakers and actors alike, demonstrating the power of a director with a clear, unique vision. For Johansson, Glazer’s artistry was more than a professional collaboration—it was an education in what it means to be fully immersed in a creative process that goes beyond the surface.

Conclusion: A Rare and Valuable Collaboration

As Johansson continues to pursue a diverse range of roles, including her return to more comedic projects like No Hard Feelings (2024), her experience working with Jonathan Glazer on Under the Skin will undoubtedly remain one of her most cherished and defining moments. For her, Glazer’s approach wasn’t just an opportunity to showcase her talent—it was an “unprecedented experience” that shaped her understanding of what it means to truly connect with a visionary filmmaker.

With Glazer’s latest film, The Zone of Interest, continuing to generate buzz, it’s clear that his films will continue to challenge and captivate audiences. And for Scarlett Johansson, working with a director like Glazer is, in her own words, “every actor’s dream.”