From Cult Upbringing to Cannes Breakthrough: Emily Watson’s Journey Through Breaking the Waves

At the Sarajevo Film Festival, Emily Watson explains how growing up in a strict religious group—described by former members as a cult—almost derailed her career, and how leaving the School of Philosophy and Economic Science marked a rupture that paralleled her breakout in Lars von Trier’s Breaking the Waves. She credits acting with saving her life, recalls the intense Cannes press era, and emphasizes a growing openness about her past. Presiding over the festival jury and receiving an honorary Heart of Sarajevo Award, Watson also hints at future projects, including Dune: Prophecy season 2, Amri, and Mars Express, while advocating for more female directors in film.