Music is a big part of my life

Actress Reese Witherspoon made a lot of heads turn this month with her speech at the Golden Globes and her active participation in the Times up movement against sexual harassment. 

She is not just a producer, an actor and a mother but has also given her voice to the animation movie, ‘Sing’. In an exclusive interview she talks about her character in the movie ‘Sing’, about being a mother and her passion for singing. In the film you can watch her play a selfless homemaker and a mother of 25 piglets. 

Were you looking forward to working with Illumination Entertainment? 
Oh yes, I was excited about the idea of working with Chris Meledandri and Illumination. We are big fans of ‘Despicable Me’ in my house and ‘Minions’ is my youngest son’s favourite film, so we watched that a lot, too! I just think they do a great job at making movies that are likeable to grownups and kids of all ages. And I loved being a part of a quality family film that is about joyful things and that celebrates life. 

How important is it for Rosita, your character in the movie ‘Sing’ to be selected for this singing contest?
It’s very important because I think she feels invisible. And I think that a lot of women feel that way too when they become a mom, as they stop working and then don’t know how they are going to get back to what they wanted to accomplish. Some women have a loss of identity. So, I think it’s great that Rosita gets this opportunity because she is thrilled to be a part of this group of people.

There is a lot of strength and courage in her.
Yes, although she does feel a bit defeated when she can’t get her steps right. Then, she has her great breakthrough moment in the grocery store when she thinks no one is watching. I love watching people dance and enjoy themselves without fearing the judgment of others. There is something really beautiful about that. 

Can we all relate to her fear of failing?
For sure! I have been scared many times in my life, but sometimes you just have to do it and be brave enough to try. And it certainly helps when it works out well, because then you are willing to take an even bigger leap. 

At its core, ‘Sing’ is about relationships. The film is also a love letter to music. What part does it play in your life?
Yes, and I like how the movie sets up these conflicts and is capable of resolving them by the end. It’s a lot!

Music is a big part of my life. Growing up in the South, I listened to a lot of country music, which made me want to be a storyteller. 

What do you like about this story? 
I like that it has such a hopeful message and also that there are all these multi-generational characters in it. There are a lot of great aspects of family represented in the film. 

What did you think of ‘Sing’ when you finally watched it?
It was a great cinematic experience. There was real tension and I was surprised by how emotional I got at times. 

Did your kids enjoy it too?
They loved it! And it’s nice for them to participate in something I am in. They heard me rehearsing the songs around the house all the time, so they felt very invested. 

I was stunned by how many popular songs the film has from incredible artists like The Beatles, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and many more. It’s just great to hear these songs you love in a different way. 

‘Sing’ will be aired on January 28 at 9 pm on Sony PIX.