Demi Moore recently opened up about her approach to selecting roles and shared her concerns about the evolving film industry during an appearance on Hot Ones. Known for her diverse acting portfolio, Moore revealed the key criterion she considers before accepting a project: the potential for a high-stakes payoff.
Discussing her latest film, The Substance, Moore acknowledged the risks involved in tackling unconventional projects. In the body horror film, she plays Elisabeth, alongside Margaret Qualley’s Sue. She described the screenplay as having the potential to be either “extraordinary” or “an absolute disaster.” This duality, Moore explained, is often what motivates her to dive into challenging roles.
“I’ve always been drawn to projects that feel like they’re worth the risk,” Moore said. She likened the experience to her iconic role in the 1990 hit Ghost. “That film blended so many genres—romance, thriller, supernatural—and I remember thinking, ‘This could be amazing or a total disaster.’ But it’s that uncertainty that makes it exciting, the kind of juice that pushes you to roll the dice and take the chance.” Her gamble paid off with Ghost, which earned over $500 million at the box office and became a cultural phenomenon.
Later in the interview, Moore shared her thoughts on the existential challenges facing the film industry. She expressed concern about the diminishing appeal of the communal cinema experience in an era dominated by streaming platforms.
“The greatest danger, I think, is losing the magic of going to the theater,” Moore said. She highlighted the societal shift towards isolation and emphasized the value of shared experiences. While she appreciates the convenience and accessibility of streaming, Moore believes it’s crucial to strike a balance.
“Streaming has brought incredible opportunities and expanded the way we consume stories,” she noted. “But I hope we don’t lose sight of what makes cinema special—coming together in a theater, connecting with others through a shared emotional journey. That’s something worth preserving.”
Moore’s reflections underscore her passion for storytelling and her commitment to projects that push boundaries while celebrating the collective experience of cinema.
