Immaculate turned into a family event for Sydney Sweeney.
During her appearance on the Today show Wednesday, she discussed the new horror movie, highlighting her grandmothers' roles both onscreen and at its Los Angeles debut. "I transported them to Italy, where they visited me on the set. I had them appear as extras, playing nuns," Sweeney, 26, mentioned. "And then, I took them to the L.A. premiere. They were thrilled."
In Immaculate, Sweeney takes on the role of Cecilia, a nun who encounters a sinister "miracle," as described in the trailer released in January.
"The role is demanding; the storyline is captivating. I'm drawn to the horror genre. It's exhilarating," she expressed to Today regarding the movie, pointing out that Immaculate is grim, edgy, and different from anything she's previously undertaken.
The conclusion may divide audiences, as noted by the star of Anyone But You.
"I anticipate a variety of reactions, and I appreciate that. I favor endings or films that spark discussion or debate. It's going to be an intense experience for some," she remarked. "We aim to challenge boundaries. We desired to explore certain depths."
The film's finale will reveal a new side of Sweeney to viewers: a single-shot scene performed "on the first try."
"The film's final scene was done in one shot, and what you see is our first attempt," she revealed. "I'm not one for meticulous planning; I prefer to experience things as they come."
"As for my character Cecilia, she's navigating through so much turmoil, sorrow, liberation, and terror. During the camera setup, our director, Michael Mohan, asked if I wanted to practice. My response was, 'Let's just see what unfolds.' And that's exactly what we did," Sweeney elaborated.
Cecilia is described as "a devout American nun beginning a fresh chapter at a secluded convent amidst the stunning landscape of the Italian countryside," per the summary.
"The initially warm reception Cecilia receives soon turns nightmarish, as it's revealed her new abode conceals a dark secret and unimaginable terrors," the summary continues.
Sweeney not only plays the lead role in the film but also took on the role of producer for Immaculate. The project also signifies a reunion with Mohan, who directed the 2021 film The Voyeurs, featuring Sweeney.
Immaculate features a cast alongside Sweeney that includes her fellow White Lotus actress Simona Tabasco — with Tabasco in season 2 and Sweeney in season 1 — and stars Álvaro Morte, Benedetta Porcaroli, Dora Romano, and Giorgio Colangeli. Immaculate hits theaters this Friday.
