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.

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.

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.

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])

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