Johansson recounts how Phoenix’s discomfort over her vocal performance during an intimate scene led him to take a break.
Scarlett Johansson recently shared an intriguing behind-the-scenes moment from the filming of the 2013 film Her, where she voiced the artificial intelligence character Samantha, opposite Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore Twombly. The film explored themes of love and technology, but it wasn’t without its awkward moments during production.
Johansson discussed the experience on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, recalling a particularly challenging scene in which she had to record sounds depicting an orgasm. Phoenix had already filmed his part but found it uncomfortable to witness Johansson’s vocal performance in the studio.
Embed from Getty Images“It was so bizarre,” Johansson explained. “We tried to get through one take, and he was, like, losing it. He was angry… he had done it in person, and now he was with me in this weird theatre.” Phoenix’s discomfort grew as he watched her in a dimly lit recording box, prompting him to step away from the scene entirely.
Despite the awkwardness, Johansson felt capable of continuing her work but expressed a need for her co-star’s presence. “I was fine. Joaquin was not—he was so upset about it,” she revealed. “He left the studio, and now I’m in this box by myself, and I’m like, ‘I can’t do it alone. I need him to come back.’”
Following a brief hiatus, Phoenix returned to the studio, demonstrating his commitment to the project even amid the discomfort of the scene. Johansson admitted that the sounds of her voice were difficult to hear, particularly in such an intimate context, stating, “You don’t want to hear what you sound like having an orgasm. Ew. It’s so gross. It was so bizarre.”
The exchange highlights the unique challenges actors face while navigating intimate scenes, especially when they involve unconventional recording methods. Johansson’s candidness sheds light on the complexities of her work in Her, showcasing the human side of filmmaking that often goes unseen by audiences.
Ultimately, Johansson’s recounting of the moment serves as a reminder of the emotional toll that such scenes can take on performers. It’s perhaps no surprise that many actors prefer to avoid watching their performances, especially those involving sensitive material.
