The actress might have put on a great performance in Darren Aronofsky’s 2017 flick, but she didn’t have a clue what was going on

Jennifer Lawrence, the Oscar-winning actress known for her roles in films like The Hunger Games and Silver Linings Playbook, is as candid in real life as she is captivating on screen. Born in Kentucky, Lawrence has built a reputation for her straightforward, no-nonsense approach to interviews, often sharing unfiltered truths about her experiences in Hollywood. From the challenges she faced early in her career to the quirky behind-the-scenes moments of her films, Lawrence is never one to shy away from speaking her mind.

One of the most intriguing revelations from Lawrence came from her time working on Mother!, a 2017 psychological horror film directed by Darren Aronofsky. The movie, which also starred Javier Bardem, Ed Harris, and Michelle Pfeiffer, follows a poet and his wife living in a remote, idyllic home whose peace is shattered by a series of unexpected and unsettling visitors. The film is steeped in symbolism and metaphor, drawing heavily from biblical themes, which left many viewers—and even the actors—confused about its true meaning.

Lawrence, who played the titular character “Mother,” found herself in the unique position of being both the star of the film and romantically involved with its director, Aronofsky. Despite their personal relationship, Lawrence admitted that she struggled to fully grasp the film’s complex narrative. In a 2023 appearance on Andy Cohen’s Watch What Happens Live, Lawrence humorously confessed that even with her “CliffsNotes” from Aronofsky, she still only had a partial understanding of the plot.

“I’m going to be honest,” she said during the interview. “Well, I was sleeping with the director, so I had the CliffsNotes. So… five? Or a four.” When Cohen quipped, “F*** the director?,” Lawrence, with her trademark wit, replied, “Yeah!” This candid admission not only highlighted Lawrence’s playful side but also underscored the complexity of Mother!—a film that even its lead actress found puzzling despite her close connection to its creator.

Lawrence’s relationship with Aronofsky, which began during the making of Mother!, was a significant part of her life at the time. The actress had previously tried to explain the film’s plot in interviews, describing it as “all an allegory” with deeper meanings tied to religious themes and the creation of the universe. In a 2017 interview with Deadline, Lawrence elaborated on the metaphorical nature of the film, stating, “It’s the creation and decimation of the universe, including Biblical themes and the creation of religion.” She explained her role as “Mother Earth,” in a relationship with an artist who symbolizes the creator, and their tumultuous dynamic as a representation of humanity’s exploitation of the planet.

Despite the late-night discussions and personal connection, Lawrence and Aronofsky’s relationship ended in November 2017, shortly after the film’s release. The breakup was amicable, with Lawrence later reflecting on the challenges of balancing a professional and personal relationship with someone so deeply involved in her work.

Beyond Mother!, Lawrence’s interviews have often provided insight into the more difficult aspects of her career. She has been open about the “degrading” experiences she faced as a young actress trying to make it in Hollywood, including the pressure to conform to certain physical standards and the challenges of navigating the industry’s power dynamics. Lawrence has also spoken candidly about the struggles of filming intense scenes, such as her experience working with Leonardo DiCaprio on Don’t Look Up, which she described as leaving her in “absolute misery.”

Lawrence’s willingness to share these experiences has endeared her to fans who appreciate her authenticity and relatability. Whether she’s discussing the surreal nature of filming a complex psychological thriller like Mother! or offering a humorous take on the challenges of working in Hollywood, Lawrence remains a breath of fresh air in an industry often characterized by its polished and guarded public personas.

In an industry where image and perception are carefully managed, Jennifer Lawrence’s honesty is a rarity. Her stories, whether lighthearted or serious, provide a glimpse into the realities of life as a Hollywood star, making her one of the most relatable and beloved figures in the entertainment world. As she continues to navigate her career and personal life with the same forthrightness that has defined her public persona, fans can look forward to more candid and entertaining revelations from one of Hollywood’s most outspoken stars.