Natalie Portman on Miss Dior, The Gallerist, and the Art Market's Dark Side

Natalie Portman is back as the ambassador for Miss Dior's newest campaign, which is helmed by director Manu Cossu and captured by photographer Lachlan Bailey, featuring Chappell Roan's "Good Luck Babe!" This campaign showcases a fresh take on Miss Dior Eau de Parfum, a rich chypre blend that includes Grasse rose, vanilla, almond, and radiant woods, drawing inspiration from Catherine Dior and the brand's ties to Provence. In a conversation with Whitewall, Portman shares insights about her dual projects: the fragrance campaign and her lead role in Cathy Yan's dark comedy thriller The Gallerist, set against the backdrop of Art Basel Miami Beach. Portraying art dealer Polina Polinski, she navigates the complexities of art and commerce, expressing astonishment at hedge funds treating paintings like gold bars. Through her production company MountainA, she supports filmmakers with significant narratives. Portman also touches on her embrace of physical comedy, appreciating the liberation of being clumsy over the coolness often portrayed in action films. She reflects on her relationship with collecting, stating she no longer identifies as a collector due to its commodification; she prefers art that resonates with her and can be shared, criticizing the trend of hoarding unseen works. This campaign is her first collaboration with Jonathan Anderson for Miss Dior, which she describes as a delightful reunion with a familiar creative team, akin to a family.