Mon Oct 14 07:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Zoe Saldaña Credits Steven Spielberg with Restoring Her Faith in Filmmaking

**London, UK** – Oscar-winning actress Zoe Saldaña, known for her roles in blockbusters like “Avatar” and “Guardians of the Galaxy,” has revealed that director Steven Spielberg played a pivotal role in restoring her faith in the film industry. Speaking at a Screen Talks session during the London Film Festival, Saldaña shared her experience of joining the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise early in her career, which left her feeling disheartened.

“99% of people in the industry are absolutely wonderful,” Saldaña said, “but if people at the top aren’t leading with kindness… then eight months later, I worked with Steven Spielberg (on The Terminal), and he restored my faith that big can also be great.”

Saldaña, who has appeared in four of the highest-grossing films of all time, discussed her journey through the industry, highlighting key moments and collaborators who shaped her career. She spoke about her breakout role in “Centre Stage” and how it ignited her passion for acting, as well as the lessons she learned on “Pirates of the Caribbean” about the kind of environment she desired.

Saldaña also touched upon her experiences working on “Avatar,” “Star Trek,” “Infinitely Polar Bear,” and “Guardians of the Galaxy.” She shared her insights on the challenges and triumphs of working with iconic directors like James Cameron and J.J. Abrams, as well as navigating the industry as a female actress.

The actress also spoke about her current project, the Paramount+ action thriller series “Special Ops: Lioness,” and her role in Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Pérez,” which premiered at the London Film Festival. Saldaña expressed her commitment to portraying complex characters and exploring the nuances of women’s experiences, highlighting the importance of female representation in the industry.

Saldaña’s candid reflections on her career provide a glimpse into the realities of Hollywood, showcasing the both the challenges and the rewards of pursuing a career in film. Her words, particularly her gratitude towards Steven Spielberg for his leadership and kindness, serve as a reminder that even in the midst of Hollywood’s grandeur, human connection and compassion remain essential.

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