Blood Diamond Screening
Jennifer Connelly answers questions at the Blood Diamond Screening.
Despite the glittering crowd at the private screening for Blood Diamond— the subject matter and the conversation over pre-film drinks was decidedly gritty. In fact there wasn't a single sexy song about diamonds or bling playing as the crowd of nearly 200 milled around the upstairs lobby at the Hearst Tower waiting for the main event- either the screening of the hotly anticipated and already well-reviewed Warner Bros film or the arrival of its star Jennifer Connelly, depending on whom you ask.
The likes of Emmy winning Linda Dano- longtime star of Another World and now Jennifer Connelly co-star in the upcoming film "Reservation Road"- mingled with major players from the media world like Hearst Magazines president Cathleen Black, a throng of fashionistas as well as television and film biggies including Blood Diamond director Edward Zwick and producer Marshall Herskovitz, Zwick's partner from TV shows "My So-Called Life," and "Once and Again".
When MC's January cover girl, ponytail swinging, made her entrance in black skinny pants and babelicious black patent boots— they were YSLs, Editor Joanna Coles later coaxed out of Connelly— the photographers sprang into action. The Oscar winner and working mother is that strange mixture of charismatic and accessible: a megawatt smile, but almost no makeup. Star material.
Talk of the commitment to this film and the subject of conflict diamonds by stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Connelly hung in the air. One guest, Igor Purlantoff (incidentally the recent fiance of MC's web editor Ashley Parrish) said, as a South African, he was well aware of the conflict diamond issue before he picked up the engagement ring. He didn't worry too much about the stone, he said, as the big name jewelers, who are all well aware of the problem, most likely wouldn't trade in the small percentage of diamonds that are so-called blood diamonds. Yet still, the question remains: Can you truly track all diamonds coming from Africa or other continents? Several people at the reception when asked questions about the trafficking of gems in Africa knew very little—but were willing to let the movie educate them.
With its non-stop action—much of it extremely violent—matched by intense performances by DiCaprio, Connelly and African-born Djimon Hounsoun (whom many recognize from Gladiator) the movie is eye-opening to say the least. MC's editor in chief, Joanna Coles, who admitted to having to close her eyes during some of the film, told the crowd during her introduction to it, that she thought it was daring and smart, and actually "stood for everything the magazine admires— except the violent part." After the 2.5 hour screening, guests settled in for a Q&A with director Zwick, Connelly, and Coles.
"I loved the idea of making a film in an environment so politically charged, with issues from child soldiers to conflict diamonds," said Connelly.
"It really did change my mind about things and led me to question my choices as a consumer, knowing the impact those choices can have on people around the world. Hopefully people will think of those things as they watch as well."
Everyone has commented on the chemistry between Connelly and co-star DiCaprio and naturally wanted to know what it was like to work with him. "He's just fantastic," said Connelly. "I've never worked with an actor as generous as he is."
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
And with that—and all the talk of conscientious gift-giving—people filed out with new awareness in this season of giving.
Dedicated to women of power, purpose, and style, Marie Claire is committed to celebrating the richness and scope of women's lives. Reaching millions of women every month, Marie Claire is an internationally recognized destination for celebrity news, fashion trends, beauty recommendations, and renowned investigative packages.
-
Zendaya Delivers a Podium-Worthy Pre-Olympics Gown
She's shining brighter than the City of Lights.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
'Love Island USA' Star Kenny Rodriguez Is Not "Playing Around" with His and JaNa Craig's Romance Outside of the Villa
The prince and princess of season 6 have remained the cutest couple since filming wrapped.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
So Many Celebrity Beauty Favorites Are in Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale
Shop Jennifer Lopez, Meghan Markle, and Kaia Gerber's beloved picks.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
30 Linen Pieces From Nordstrom’s Sale for a Seamless Summer to Fall Transition
Shop breezy dresses and airy pants for versatile summer and autumn outfits.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
7 Make-My-Life-Easier Items I'm Buying From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Grab these must-haves before it's too late.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
The Best Summer Work Shoes Don’t Have To Scream ‘Corporate'
Footwear that means business in the best way possible.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
34 Chic Vacation Essentials Hiding in Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale
Don't board the plane without packing these items first.
By Lauren Tappan Last updated
-
The Boxer Shorts Trend Offers a Realistic Take on Lingerie Dressing
How the borrowed-from-the-boys bottom became a hero summer piece with endless style potential.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Fashion Girls Are Destined to Wear the J.Crew x Maryam Nassir Zadeh Collaboration on Vacation
Beloved indie designer Maryam Nassir Zadeh translated her essentials into the ultimate packing list.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
I'm a Style Editor—50 Last-Minute Prime Day Fashion Deals to Grab Before Tomorrow
Grab these on-sale items before it’s too late.
By Lauren Tappan Last updated
-
Fashion Editors Share the Best Work Dresses From Their Summer Uniform
From classic wrap silhouettes to breezy linens, these are the expert-approved styles we're wearing on repeat.
By Lauren Tappan Published