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Eve Brent worked with Elle in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. She was kind enough to share her experiences with us, and give us a peek into what the movie set was really like - so I hope you enjoy reading her words! Our very special thanks go to Eve, and Sky Brower for their kindness and generosity.

To describe my role in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" - Grandma Fuller is a lovely Southern lady who truly cares about everyone, most especially her precocious and adorable "Daisy" played exquisitely by Elle Fanning.

Before filming began for me, I had not met anyone in the cast. My family and friends were all delightfully new to me and everyone became dear to me in my role and in my life, especially Elle whose remarkable talent and warm personality helped me to be that loving "Grandma" to her.

Can I describe how I felt working with Elle? Oh, yes, I can. Elle has an innate ability to engross her whole being into her character. She is honest at every moment and never egocentric. I have worked with many child actors over the years, and Elle is truly a joy. She is at once, a truly giving actress and an unspoiled child. Elle will probably always be able to call on her child-like innocence and her adult comprehension of everything that is happening in any role she will play. The most memorable moment I recall is when Daisy "Elle" looks up at me and asks "May I ?", her eyes wide and wistful and her heart willing to accept "No, Dear". Total respect for me and for Grandma Fuller. We communicated.

Now, that "Curious Case... is known about and talked about so much...Everyone knows about Elle. Elle is already a name and a star and she's earning it all.

For me, there has never been any difference in working with a child or an adult. I just stay true to whatever character I am playing and to the piece. I will say this..Some child actors are apt to show off and need constant attention and some of them are just obnoxious. That can usually come from the parents. Elle's folks are just lovely caring people.As for the "difference" some adult actors are really just children, too. We can be endearing or impossible. Elle is both a child and a grown up little lady. She is ALWAYS endearing and her stamina and concentration are amazing. Elle 's approach to her work is very mature and the energy she puts into every moment is astounding.

As for whether Elle and I and her family will stay in touch, we will surely always be good friends, but "staying in touch?, that's up to circumstances. Actors lives branch out in many directions, but one thing is sure, I shall always love Elle and I will watch her life grow and her triumphs expand with great pride that I have witnessed a amall part of the magic she creates I hope we work together again.

We only rehearsed just before filming, but we usually had a number of rehearsals and quite a few takes..the hours were as long as were permitted for Elle and she worked hard. David Fincher is a wonderful director and HE worked until he got just what were perfect moments. We all grew tremendously in this effiort, It was a privilege for us all and Elle seemed to realize that.

Written for Totally Elle (August 2007).
Thanks to Eve Brent and Sky Brower.

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