Zoë Kravitz and Naomi Ackie hug on-set after filming intense scenes for “Blink Twice.”
In the world of film, some projects leave a deep impact on the actors and crew long after the cameras stop rolling.
Such was the case with “Blink Twice,” a psychological thriller co-written and directed by Zoë Kravitz. For the cast, including Naomi Ackie, the experience was intense, requiring not just skill but also emotional support.
“Blink Twice” centers on the story of Frida, a struggling waitress portrayed by Ackie, who crosses paths with Slater King, a tech billionaire played by Channing Tatum.
The film’s plot follows Frida as she gets swept up into King’s world of luxury and power, only to discover that everything is not as it seems.
The island where King whisks her away becomes a place of dark secrets, challenging Frida’s perceptions and safety.
Kravitz, who also happens to be Tatum’s fiancée, shared that making the film was a collaborative effort that involved deep conversations among the cast and crew.
As the film’s director and co-writer, Kravitz was committed not only to the story but also to ensuring that everyone involved felt heard and supported during the production, especially during the more difficult scenes.
“We had a lot of conversations,” Kravitz explained in an exclusive interview. “There were nights where we’d all sit down as a group and talk about whatever was on our minds—fears, concerns, personal experiences.
It wasn’t just about getting to the end of the shoot; it was about making sure everyone was okay along the way.”
These conversations weren’t just between the whole group. Kravitz made sure to create separate spaces where the men and women could talk freely among themselves.
She recognized that the emotional weight of some scenes could affect people differently, and she wanted to provide a safe environment for everyone to process those feelings.
Naomi Ackie, who plays the film’s protagonist, found these discussions invaluable. She described the moments of connection with her fellow cast members as “beautiful,” noting that after some of the toughest scenes, they would come together in a group hug to support one another.
“Some scenes left us feeling completely drained,” Ackie said. “But we’d have this big group hug afterward, and it was really special. Those are the kinds of moments that remind you why you do this work.”
The film’s storyline, which involves a young woman navigating the treacherous waters of wealth and power, required Ackie to dig deep emotionally. Despite the challenging material, she found a sense of community among the cast that made the experience worthwhile.
Ackie shared that she didn’t know Kravitz before being cast in the film, but the two quickly became close friends after a bonding session over Zoom. This friendship carried over into their off-screen lives as well, with Ackie recalling fun nights out in New York City with Kravitz.
“I have videos of us dancing in the street, eating tacos, drinking tequila,” Kravitz recounted with a laugh. One memorable moment included a late-night walk to a bodega, where Ackie spontaneously hopped behind the counter, much to everyone’s amusement.
“We had a really fun night. And I thought, ‘Oh, this is going to be good,’” Kravitz added, reflecting on their instant chemistry.
The camaraderie among the cast was evident in how they supported each other through the more intense scenes. As the film dives into darker themes, including the complexities of power dynamics and the sinister side of human nature, it was crucial for the actors to trust one another.
Ackie emphasized that the trust they built allowed them to create something authentic and powerful, without fear of judgment.
For Ackie, this film reaffirmed her love for acting, not just for the craft itself but for the sense of community it fosters. “The reason why I became an actor was for the community,” she said.
“It’s the people that you’re with, and the fact that you can trust people enough to create a story together. You know that people aren’t going to laugh at you—they’re going to support you.”
As “Blink Twice” hits theaters on Friday, August 23, audiences will witness the result of this deep collaboration and the emotional journey that brought it to life. Kravitz’s direction and the cast’s commitment to the story are expected to make the film a gripping experience for viewers.
But for those involved in its creation, the memories of the bonds formed and the challenges overcome will likely linger long after the credits roll.
Whether it’s the thrill of the narrative or the behind-the-scenes friendships, “Blink Twice” is poised to be a standout film, both on and off the screen.