Acting : What We Can Learn from Jessica Biel & Elizabeth Banks’ Approach to Dual Leads by Ashley Renee Smith

Ashley Renee Smith

What We Can Learn from Jessica Biel & Elizabeth Banks’ Approach to Dual Leads

This recent interview in Deadline dives into how JESSICA BIEL and ELIZABETH BANKS approached playing estranged sisters in the gripping thriller The Better Sister, and it’s a must-read for any actor thinking about character contrast and emotional nuance:

https://deadline.com/2025/06/the-better-sister-jessica-biel-elizabeth-ba...

What stood out to me most was how both actresses emphasized mutual trust, detailed backstory work, and how they used their real-life differences to enhance their on-screen dynamic. It’s a great reminder that the best performances often come from embracing tension and leaning into collaborative storytelling.

Have you ever worked on a project where your character had a complicated relationship with another lead?

How did you build that chemistry, especially if your real-life energy was totally different?

Would love to hear your thoughts, and if this article sparks any new insights for your process!

Alexandra Stevens

Ashley Renee Smith I haven't been in this situation yet but I really like what you have shared. I really enjoy hearing actors talking about their work in such detail and with so much work on the backstory. I also like the openness with. which they share which areas of their own lives resonated with the story. I was also curious when Jessica Biel talked about knowing how to stay safe and that was what allowed her to explore the unravelling process of her character. I found myself wondering what that safety work would look like. Will research.....

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