Isabella Rossellini | 'Conclave'

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

Episode: Isabella Rossellini | Conclave
Release Date: January 11, 2025
Host: Stephen Colbert
Guest: Isabella Rossellini
Description: In this engaging episode, host Stephen Colbert sits down with acclaimed actress Isabella Rossellini to discuss her latest film Conclave, her illustrious career, personal anecdotes, and her unexpected journey into the world of farming.

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1. Introduction and Welcome ([00:38] - [01:18])

Stephen Colbert opens the episode by introducing his guest, Isabella Rossellini, highlighting her notable works including Blue Velvet, Death Becomes Her, and 30 Rock. He then delves into her latest project, the film Conclave, praising it as a "brilliant, beautiful film exploring the election of a Pope and the Church itself, warts and all, and its heart."

Notable Quote:

"Conclave is a brilliant, beautiful film exploring the election of a Pope and the Church itself, warts and all, and its heart. A very beautiful and hopeful film in many ways. And I loved it."
— Stephen Colbert ([01:18])

2. Isabella’s Connection with Nuns and Acting Heritage ([01:25] - [02:42])

Isabella Rossellini shares personal insights about her upbringing and her relationship with nuns, drawing parallels between her mother's influence and her portrayal of Sister Agnes in Conclave. She recounts conversations with her favorite nun and her mother, Ingrid Bergman, emphasizing the concept of calling—both acting and religious vocations—as something chosen by destiny rather than by choice.

Notable Quote:

"When I asked my nun I liked the most if the family, when she decided to be a nun, how she reacted. Oh, she said, they cried. They say you can go to church every day. We want to be grandparents. Why don't you get married? You can still be religious. And she said it was a calling."
— Isabella Rossellini ([02:11])

3. Portraying Sister Agnes: Presence Over Dialogue ([02:42] - [03:12])

Colbert commends Rossellini for her powerful portrayal of Sister Agnes, noting her significant presence despite having limited lines. Isabella explains the hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church depicted in the film, where women's roles, though subservient, carry inherent authority. This dynamic allowed her character to exude authority and instill a sense of fear among the cardinals.

Notable Quote:

"Even if you have a subservient role, you don't have authority. And so it was fantastic to play a role where I don't have any lines, but everybody's a little bit afraid of me."
— Isabella Rossellini ([02:50])

4. Filming in Rome and Personal Connections ([03:12] - [04:30])

The conversation shifts to the film's production in Rome. Rossellini recounts guiding the cast around her hometown, including a private visit to the Sistine Chapel and the meticulous recreation of the chapel at Cinecittà studio. She reflects on her father's legacy as a filmmaker, Roberto Rossellini, and his friendship with Federico Fellini, expressing pride in the craftsmanship that brought the Sistine Chapel to life on screen.

Notable Quote:

"They could rebuild the Sistine Chapel in a studio."
— Isabella Rossellini ([03:30])

5. Behind-the-Scenes with the Cast ([04:30] - [05:28])

Colbert mentions Stanley Tucci's role in the film and humorously inquires if Rossellini helped him navigate Italy. Isabella reveals that while Tucci was adept at finding restaurants, she introduced him to a hidden gem—a nun-run restaurant named Eau Viva. She shares nostalgic memories of her mother frequenting the same establishment to avoid paparazzi, describing the serene atmosphere where food, prayer, and song harmoniously coexist.

Notable Quote:

"It's difficult to."
— Isabella Rossellini ([05:27])

6. Early Career and Family Influence ([05:28] - [07:14])

Stephen and Isabella discuss her early foray into acting. At 22, Isabella appeared in a minor role alongside her mother in a Vincent Minnelli-directed film. She reflects on her mother's encouragement to pursue acting, despite initial resistance and intimidation due to her mother's fame. Isabella narrates how her mother's passion for acting as a calling influenced her own path.

Notable Quote:

"Acting is the best job you can ever have."
— Isabella Rossellini ([06:55])

7. Transition to Farming and Continued Education ([07:14] - [08:11])

Colbert highlights Isabella's multifaceted career, noting her success in both acting and farming. At a pivotal point in her 50s, facing reduced opportunities in Hollywood, Isabella pursued her long-standing interest in animal behavior. She earned a master's degree in ethology from Hunter College, embracing her passion and demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning.

Notable Quote:

"I always liked animals, and I always wanted to study animals. Particular ethology, which is the science of animal behavior."
— Isabella Rossellini ([07:37])

8. Closing Remarks ([08:11] - [08:40])

Stephen Colbert wraps up the interview by praising Isabella's performance in Conclave and expressing his appreciation for her presence on the show. He directs listeners to additional content available on The Late Show's YouTube channel.

9. Post-Interview Advertisements and Promotions ([08:40] - [09:36])

The episode concludes with advertisements for upcoming shows and series, including The Agency and Welcome to the Oil Business, featuring voices from both Colbert and Isabella. These segments, as per the user's request, are summarized briefly and not detailed extensively.

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Conclusion:

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of The Late Show Pod Show, Stephen Colbert engages in a meaningful conversation with Isabella Rossellini, delving into her latest cinematic endeavor, personal heritage, and her transition into farming. The discussion offers listeners a comprehensive look into Isabella's multifaceted life, her dedication to her crafts, and the influences that have shaped her illustrious career. With notable quotes and personal anecdotes, the episode serves both fans and new listeners alike, providing a rich and engaging narrative of Isabella Rossellini's journey.

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Notable Quotes Summary:

1. "Conclave is a brilliant, beautiful film exploring the election of a Pope and the Church itself, warts and all, and its heart. A very beautiful and hopeful film in many ways. And I loved it."
   — Stephen Colbert ([01:18])

2. "When I asked my nun I liked the most if the family, when she decided to be a nun, how she reacted. Oh, she said, they cried. They say you can go to church every day. We want to be grandparents. Why don't you get married? You can still be religious. And she said it was a calling."
   — Isabella Rossellini ([02:11])

3. "Even if you have a subservient role, you don't have authority. And so it was fantastic to play a role where I don't have any lines, but everybody's a little bit afraid of me."
   — Isabella Rossellini ([02:50])

4. "They could rebuild the Sistine Chapel in a studio."
   — Isabella Rossellini ([03:30])

5. "It's difficult to."
   — Isabella Rossellini ([05:27])

6. "Acting is the best job you can ever have."
   — Isabella Rossellini ([06:55])

7. "I always liked animals, and I always wanted to study animals. Particular ethology, which is the science of animal behavior."
   — Isabella Rossellini ([07:37])

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This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for both existing fans and new listeners.

Transcript

[Stephen Colbert]

The Apple Watch Series 10 is here. It has the biggest display ever. It's also the thinnest Apple watch ever, making it even more comfortable on your wrist whether you're running, swimming or sleeping. And it's the fastest charging Apple Watch, getting you eight hours of charge in just 15 minutes. The Apple Watch Series 10, available for the first time in glossy jet black aluminum compared to previous generations. IPhone XS are later required charge time and actual results will vary. It's the Late Show Poncho with Stephen Colbert.

Welcome back, everybody. Ladies and gentlemen, you know my next guest tonight from Blue Velvet. Death becomes her and 30 Rock. Her latest film is Conclave.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Well, good afternoon, Sister. I would like to speak to the nun who dropped her tray just now. She's safe with me. I'm dealing with the situation. I'm sure you are, Sister Agnes, but I must see her myself. I hardly think a drop tray should concern the dean of the College of Cardinals. Even so, the welfare of the sister is my responsibility. And this conclave is mine.

[Stephen Colbert]

Please welcome Isabella Rossellini.

[Isabella Rossellini]

So lovely to see you. Lovely to see you.

[Stephen Colbert]

Conclave, a brilliant, beautiful film exploring the election of a Pope and the Church itself, warts and all, and its heart. A very beautiful and hopeful film in many ways. And I loved it. And I loved your performance in it as Sister Agnes. As I was saying to you, I.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Went to school with the nuns, so.

[Stephen Colbert]

I know how you were educated by the nuns.

[Isabella Rossellini]

I was educated by the nuns, so I know. I'm going to tell you something very strange. I asked my nun I liked the most if the family, when she decided to be a nun, how she reacted. Oh, she said, they cried. They say you can go to church every day. We want to be grandparents. Why don't you get married? You can still be religious. And she said it was a calling. When I asked my mom, my mom was Ingrid Bergman, a wonderful actress. Thank you. Thank you. When I asked my mom what made you decided to be an actress, she said, I didn't choose acting. Acting chose me. It's a calling. It was exactly the same answer that my nun gave me. It was something. And both my mom and the nuns, they were very strong with a lot of authority, a very pure core. And that's what I played in Sister Agnes.

[Stephen Colbert]

Well, it's a very powerful performance. And you know, there are not a lot of. Your character doesn't have a lot of lines, but a lot of presence, A lot of presence.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Because in the score, in the Catholic Church, there is a very strong hierarchy and women they have a role of really serving the cardinals. That doesn't mean that even if you have a subservient role, you don't have authority. And so it was fantastic to play a role where I don't have any lines, but everybody's a little bit afraid of me.

[Stephen Colbert]

Well, some of the people who are afraid of you are the cardinals themselves.

[Isabella Rossellini]

The cardinals.

[Stephen Colbert]

And then there's an incredible cast. Ralph Fine, Stanley Tudor, John Lithgow. And this was shot in your hometown? Rome.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Rome, yes.

[Stephen Colbert]

Did you show them around?

[Isabella Rossellini]

Of course I showed them around.

[Stephen Colbert]

Where would you want to take.

[Isabella Rossellini]

So one of the things that was most spectacular was to see the Sistine Chapels. And the producers very kindly organized a private visit of the Sistine Chapel. And then we went to see the Sistine Chapel where we shot. Because you cannot shoot in the Sistine Chapel. It was painted by Michelangelo. So we had to go to Cinecitta, which is a studio in Rome, where the Sistine Chapel was rebuilt. Exactly. And I was so moved because my father was a filmmaker. He worked with Federico. My father was Roberto Rossellini. His best friend was Federico Fellini. Thank you. And my father and Federico Fellini really trained a group of artisans, and I was so proud of that. They could rebuild the Sistine Chapel in a studio.

[Stephen Colbert]

It's remarkable. I was actually just in Rome this past summer. Went to the Sistine Chapel, went to the Apostolic palace, all the places where this is taking place. It's a perfect recreation.

[Isabella Rossellini]

It's a perfect recreation.

[Stephen Colbert]

So beautiful. Stanley Tucci, of course, is famously searching for Italy. Did you help him find it because it seems hard to miss.

[Isabella Rossellini]

No. He knew more than me about restaurant and where to eat.

[Stephen Colbert]

Oh, yes.

[Isabella Rossellini]

But I took him in a restaurant that he didn't know about. A restaurant run by nuns.

[Stephen Colbert]

Really good.

[Isabella Rossellini]

There is a restaurant in Rome called Eau Viva that is run by nuns. It's in the center of Rome, not far from the Vatican. And of course, the Vatican has priests and nuns and cardinals from all over the world coming. So it's a place where they can go. And it was open when I was a little girl, and my mom used to go there because Mama was famous and she didn't want to have paparazzi and people bothering her. So if she went to the restaurant, she went there because the nuns didn't bother her. And they serve food and the food was delightful. And then they sing, too, and they all pray and sing. So Stanley was very impressed by that.

[Stephen Colbert]

Wow.

[Isabella Rossellini]

It's difficult to.

[Stephen Colbert]

Your first film. This is your first film? Yes, first film you play. This is not the first nun you've played. You played this nun. How old are you here?

[Isabella Rossellini]

I was maybe 22, 23.

[Stephen Colbert]

22. You played a nun with your mother in a film. I believe your character's name was Sister. What a waist. And what was. Do you remember your character's name?

[Isabella Rossellini]

Maybe Pia. Maybe it was Sister Pia. I don't remember. It was a very small part. The director was Vincent Minnelli. Liza Minnelli had just won the Oscar for Cabaret, and she was dreaming to work with her dad. And so she put together this film for her dad to direct. And my mama was hired to be in the film. And Mama was happy because the film was shot in Rome. She could be with us. And. And then in the film, she plays a very eccentric contessa. And at the end of the film, she's run over by a car and she's in the hospital dying. And Mama thought. That's what she told me. I think she had another plan. She said, it'd be great if, as I'm dying, I have an hallucination because I look like my mom, that I see myself young, as a young person. The nun that is assisting me has my face of me when I'm young. So it's nice. But in fact, I don't think it was that. She wanted to give me a taste of acting because she wanted to tempt me into acting. I was resistant to being.

[Stephen Colbert]

So you thought you needed a job? No.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Well, at 22, you do need a job. But I was intimidated by being an actress because she was so famous. And I thought maybe I should do something else, something different. And she said, oh, no, acting is the best job you can ever have. And so she was tempting me to become an actress.

[Stephen Colbert]

Well, you actually ended up with another skill besides acting. As successful as you've been with that, is that you're a farmer.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Oh, yes, I am.

[Stephen Colbert]

There you are. This is it. In your 50s, you decided to go to school to study animal behavior for real, like classes and grades and all that kind of things. Why? Why did you decide to do.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Well, I always liked animals, and I always wanted to study animals. Particular ethology, which is the science of animal behavior. But I wasn't very good at school when I was a little girl, but I was very pretty, so I became a model. And then I followed Mama's advice and became an actress. And then in my 50s, there is less work for women. And I decided, you know what? I'm going back to what I always wanted to do. And so I went to Hunter College in New York and got a master's degree in anthology.

[Stephen Colbert]

Fantastic.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Thank you.

[Stephen Colbert]

Well, it's a beautiful film. It's a beautiful performance. Thank you so much for being here.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Thank you.

[Stephen Colbert]

It's always lovely to spend time with you.

[Isabella Rossellini]

Thank you. It's lovely to speak. Thank you so much.

[Stephen Colbert]

Conclave is in theaters and streaming now. Isabella Rossellini, everybody. Thank you for listening to the Late Show Pod show with Stephen Colbert. Just one more thing. If you want to see more of me, come to The Late Show YouTube channel for more clips and exclusives.

[Narrator]

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[Stephen Colbert]

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[Isabella Rossellini]

Nothing is personal.

[Narrator]

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[Isabella Rossellini]

You're all right.

[Stephen Colbert]

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[Stephen Colbert]

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