Ashley Judd stands up for herself
'De-Lovely' actress' attitude: 'I can do that, no problem'
By Stephanie Snipes
CNN
(CNN) -- Ashley Judd can be described as a strong, independent woman who isn't afraid to stand up for her beliefs -- traits she feels are important to carry over to her on-screen characters.
No stranger to feminist causes -- she has been photographed wearing a T-shirt that reads "This is what a feminist looks like" -- Judd's resume reads like a tough-chicks who's-who. From the sharp-tongued Reed Halsey on the television show "Sisters," to a high-powered lawyer in 2002's "High Crimes," Judd has taken on numerous strong-willed roles -- even if more than a few seem to be about women in jeopardy.
Judd's newest on-screen effort is the film "De-Lovely," in which she plays Linda Porter, the guiding force and musical inspiration for her husband, songwriter Cole Porter (Kevin Kline).
"De-Lovely" tells the story of Cole and Linda's life together and his rise to fame as a leading American composer. Contemporary artists such as Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morrisette and Elvis Costello perform new versions of Porter's songs, including "Let's Misbehave," "So in Love" and "Begin the Beguine," throughout the film.
Judd spoke to CNN about "De-Lovely" and acting.
CNN: What inspired you to participate in this film?
ASHLEY JUDD: Well, I love the music. And I love Kevin Kline and I'm definitely interested in the fact that Irwin Winkler, the director, and [Kline] had worked together so movingly on "My Life as a House," a picture I really liked. And I'm also a devoted fan of the Jazz Age. So really there wasn't anything I didn't like.
CNN: Did you enjoy working with Kevin Kline?
JUDD: I definitely enjoyed working with Kevin. He's a consummate professional, incredibly meticulous about crafting his role and absolutely worked his butt off.
CNN: Having such a musical family [Ashley is Naomi Judd's daughter and Wynonna Judd's younger sister], were you worried about singing?
JUDD: I wasn't bothered by the idea, but when it came down to it I was fairly nervous. I was too dumb to panic. You know, we actors have fairly healthy egos: "Oh sure, I can do that, no problem. Gain 30 pounds, sing a song, ride a horse, jump off a building, no worries."
CNN: What is your take on using contemporary musicians in the film?
JUDD: I thought it was great because a lot of -- in fact, every -- contemporary artist I've ever met reveres Cole Porter. But maybe the younger generation, the sort of 28 and younger, they might not know as much about Cole Porter. They might not have had their Billie Holiday moment yet, or discovered Ella Fitzgerald.
 Kevin Kline (right), who plays Cole Porter in "De-Lovely," was "a consummate professional," said Judd. |  |
And so for this music, which is a very important part of our collective cultural heritage, to be introduced to them by people they already like, I think is a phenomenal idea.
CNN: How did you enjoy working on Broadway in "Cat On a Hot Tin Roof"? [Judd played Maggie the Cat in the revival of the Tennessee Williams play.]
JUDD: I had a wonderful time on Broadway. It was an absolutely fabulous experience.
CNN: Was Broadway always a goal for you?
JUDD: It wasn't an articulated goal but I was certainly ready to jump at any opportunity that seemed enticing. I'm definitely interested in doing more theater. I'll try and balance it with movies and use the theatrical opportunity in a way that compliments my family life.
CNN: Did you get bored performing the role night after night?
JUDD: Absolutely not, that's the joy of it. The fact that you have the renewed opportunity every day, some times twice a day, four times in 48 hours on the weekends, to have a fresh go. The great thing about a play is that you sustain the narrative from start to finish every single time. And the great thing about movies is that you've got an opportunity to really dissect and work on each individual.
CNN: How do you pick your roles?
JUDD: Well, whoever doesn't take the opportunity to play Maggie the Cat is just plain old dumb. That was a no-brainer. I just try to make sure the material seems to fit. It's a very organic process of mutual elimination.
