Lawrence and Pattinson Discuss Postpartum Struggles at Cannes

CANNES, France — Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson discussed their new film, “Die, My Love,” at a press conference on Sunday during the Cannes Film Festival. The film, directed by Lynne Ramsay, explores the harrowing journey of postpartum depression.

The movie, which premiered on May 17, is an adaptation of Ariana Harwicz’s 2017 novel. It features Lawrence as Grace, a woman struggling with severe postpartum depression after the birth of her first child. Lawrence expressed her deep connection to the story, saying, “There’s not really anything like postpartum. It’s extremely isolating,” during the press event.

Lawrence, who welcomed her second child earlier this year, noted the emotional challenges of playing Grace. “As a mother, it was really hard to separate what I would do as opposed to what [the character] would do,” she said. The narrative follows Grace and her boyfriend Jackson, portrayed by Pattinson, as they navigate the complexities of new parenthood.

Pattinson shared insights about the unique atmosphere on set, stating that it was neither hard nor easy, but rather an unusual environment. He described one particularly intense scene, emphasizing Ramsay’s innovative direction that often replaced dialogue with raw emotional expression.

Lawrence recalled the first day on set, revealing that Ramsay had shown her and Pattinson a scene from the 1968 film “If” to inspire their performance. “It was these actors, and they’re attacking each other like tigers,” she said, adding that they were encouraged to perform a scene naked, heightening their vulnerability in the film.

“Die, My Love” explores the complexities of motherhood, identity, and mental health, focusing on Grace’s struggles and her deteriorating relationship with Jackson. The film captures both the beauty and darkness of Grace’s experience, set against the backdrop of rural Montana.

Lawrence concluded the press conference by reflecting on her transformative experience of motherhood. “Having children changes everything, it changes your whole life, it’s brutal and incredible… I highly recommend having kids if you want to be an actor,” she said with a laugh.