TIPSLIFEHACKS

Dakota Johnson, known for her role in the Fifty Shades of Grey franchise, has spoken out about her positive experience working with an intimacy coordinator for the first time. The actress highlighted the significant evolution in film production practices, contrasting her current experience with the lack of such support during the filming of Fifty Shades of Grey in 2015.

Johnson's comments came during a recent interview, where she expressed her enthusiasm for the new role of intimacy coordinators on set. She described the experience as “so cool,” emphasizing the added layer of safety and professionalism it brings to scenes involving intimate moments. This marks a notable shift from the environment she encountered earlier in her career.

The absence of intimacy coordinators on the set of Fifty Shades of Grey has long been a topic of discussion. The film, released in 2015, depicted explicit scenes, and Johnson has previously alluded to feeling uncomfortable and unprepared for the level of intimacy required. The role of an intimacy coordinator is to ensure actors feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout the filming of sensitive scenes. They work closely with actors, directors, and the crew to establish boundaries, choreograph movements, and create a comfortable and professional atmosphere.

“It’s a really new thing, and it’s so needed,” Johnson explained. “I mean, it was so different when we made Fifty Shades. There were no intimacy coordinators at that time.” Her comments underscore the growing awareness of the importance of safeguarding actors' well-being and creating ethical working conditions in the film industry.

The increasing prevalence of intimacy coordinators reflects a broader cultural shift towards greater sensitivity and accountability in the workplace. It's a recognition that actors, like any other professionals, deserve to feel protected and respected while performing their jobs. The role helps to de-stigmatize conversations around intimacy in film and ensure that actors have the support they need to navigate challenging scenes.

Johnson's openness about her experiences serves as a valuable reminder of the progress made in the industry and the ongoing need for continued improvement. It highlights the crucial role intimacy coordinators play in fostering a safer and more equitable environment for actors, ultimately leading to more responsible and respectful film production practices. The shift is not just about safety; it's about empowering actors and ensuring they have agency over their own bodies and performances.

Looking ahead, it's likely that the use of intimacy coordinators will become even more widespread, as studios and production companies prioritize the well-being of their talent and strive to create inclusive and respectful workplaces. Dakota Johnson’s experience exemplifies this positive evolution and demonstrates the benefits of embracing these new standards within the film industry.