Lawrence on directing dreams: 'I would rather just do it than talk about it'

Jennifer Lawrence, the four-time Oscar nominee and Best Actress winner, is on the cusp of a significant career pivot. Already a powerhouse performer with critically acclaimed roles in 'The Hunger Games', 'X-Men', and 'Silver Linings Playbook', she's now setting her sights on the director's chair.

"I want to direct," Lawrence declares, putting a clear intention into the universe. It's a shift that would place her among an elite group of accomplished actresses who've successfully transitioned into directing, marking a new chapter in her illustrious career. Lawrence, however, isn't keen on talking about her aspirations, preferring to let her actions speak for themselves. "I would rather just do it than talk about it," she says, demonstrating a unique mix of humility and ambition.

Her long-time collaborator and mentor, renowned filmmaker Russell, expresses amusement at the prospect of Lawrence stepping into the director's shoes. "Well, first of all, I can't wait to see this creature of now, of pure this-momentness, have to be the one who has to worry about everything," he muses, anticipating a fascinating transformation for the acting virtuoso. Nonetheless, he firmly believes in her potential: "But she's got a big soul and a big life ahead of her, and she can do really whatever she wants.”

Lawrence's desire to direct seems rooted in a deeply ingrained curiosity to expand her horizons and tap into her creative prowess. Observing Russell's editing sessions for their film 'Joy', she's been quietly acquiring new skills and insights. The goal is to learn from the industry legends she's had the privilege to work with, supplementing her natural talent with acquired knowledge and skills.

Besides her directorial ambitions, Lawrence reveals a palpable hesitation about theatre, despite her undeniable talent in front of the camera. "Theatre scares me. My fear comes from feeling like theatre is vocal and physical; the film is all eyes and subtlety. That I can do," she confesses. Isabella Rossellini, however, encourages her to embrace the theatrical stage, suggesting it's "only acting and none of the bullshit".

Born and raised in horse country, Lawrence's love for riding is another facet of her personality, one that was vividly illustrated during a recent Vogue photoshoot in the desert outside L.A. "They gave me this amazing horse," she says, recalling the exhilarating experience, "Fastest I’ve ever ridden in my life."

From riding horses in the desert to contemplating a shift to directing, Lawrence is no stranger to taking on challenges and venturing into uncharted territories. As the Hollywood starlet prepares to journey from in front of the camera to behind it, she brings the same fearlessness and determination that have made her a cinema powerhouse.