Margaret Qualley: The Substance's Profound Impact on Her Career

For Margaret Qualley, The Substance marked a turning point. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, this film offered her an intense and demanding role: Sue, a character both complex and unsettling. But what few viewers realize is the extent to which this role left its mark, well beyond the filming.

Nightmares of a role all too real

In a recent interview with IndieWire , Margaret Qualley shared a striking detail: even months after filming wrapped, her subconscious hasn't completely moved on. "Just the day before yesterday, I had the same dream Sue had, the one where I lose my teeth and I freak out in front of the mirror," she said. "I'm one of those people who's had that nightmare about losing your teeth, but this time it was literally the scene in the movie."

This type of dream isn't simply a dreamlike remnant. It illustrates how a deeply immersive role can leave a lasting psychological imprint. Margaret Qualley didn't just play Sue; she lived her from the inside out, to the point where her own psyche continues to explore the character's emotions long after the set has closed.

Unexpected physical consequences

While the psychological impact is striking, the physical toll of the role is just as significant. During filming, Margaret had to wear particularly restrictive prosthetics. These, while necessary to bring her character to life, caused damage to her skin. "It took me a year to fully recover," she revealed. These months of post-filming care illustrate how much the physical commitment can take on a dedicated actress.

In an industry where extreme body transformations for a role are often glorified, it's rare to hear an actress speak openly about these kinds of consequences. Qualley, however, doesn't hesitate to share these details, highlighting the real sacrifices that certain roles require.

A shoot under the sign of collaboration and admiration

Margaret Qualley didn't go through this difficult journey alone. By her side is an icon: Demi Moore. The film relies heavily on their partnership, and Qualley has made no secret of her admiration for her on-screen partner. "She's taken risks with her choices throughout her career and put her all into it," she said, adding that she sincerely hopes to see the film recognized at future awards ceremonies. "Demi's performance truly deserves recognition."

This sense of mutual admiration and artistic respect clearly played a key role in the dynamics of the shoot. The two actresses drew on this collaborative energy to bring to life a work that explores boundaries, both emotional and physical.

Beyond the comfort zone

For Margaret Qualley, The Substance was more than just a role; it was a personal challenge. “It was something that went beyond my comfort zone,” she said. The experience not only enriched her professional knowledge, but also redefined how she approached her artistic choices.

In taking on the role of Sue, she learned to confront areas of discomfort, push her boundaries, and fully immerse herself in a world that wasn't her own. The result is a film that transcends the screen to leave a lasting mark on the life of its lead actress.

A recognition that remains to be written

With The Substance , Margaret Qualley took a career leap forward, tackling darker themes and more complex roles. While the film garnered strong reactions when it premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, institutional recognition has yet to come.

The actress hopes that the upcoming awards ceremonies will highlight not only her performance, but also that of Demi Moore, as well as the bold work of director Coralie Fargeat. In the meantime, Margaret Qualley continues to move forward, carrying within her the echoes of a role that, long after the final clapperboard, continues to resonate in her daily life.