Q&A WithJames Franco and Sophia Myles

Q&A With…James Franco and Sophia Myles

By Susan L. Hornik

James Franco and Sophia Myles

By Susan L. Hornik

The stars of Tristan & Isolde talk about love at first (or second!) sight, the craziest thing they’ve done in the name of romance, and more.

	In Tristan & Isolde, you play ill-fated lovers who seem to be mesmerized by each other almost in an instant. Do you believe in love at first sight?
	James: I think there must be something between two people that just fits, even before they know each other. It just seems to work that way. There are tons of stories of people who knew—in hindsight they say, Oh yeah, there was something there when we first met. I just kinda knew, etc. But Romeo and Juliet got married and then died the next day! So there may be love at first sight—definitely chemistry between people—but to have a lasting relationship takes a lot of work. Sophia: I do, yes. For me, it was actually the experience of love at second sight—the first time, I had no recollection of meeting him, and he thought I was frosty! But the second time, I thought: Wow! Ding dong!

	Why is forbidden love—the idea of wanting someone you can never have—so seductive?
	Sophia: It’s kinda “the grass is always greener” syndrome. When something is unattainable, that’s very attractive. James: We always want what we can’t have—that’s what makes us human. We are never satisfied. I know for myself, as soon as I have something or someone, I find myself wondering: Well, what’s next?!

	Your characters take enormous risks for love. What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done in the name of romance?
	James: I tried to create drama when there was no need for it—stupid things, like climb in someone’s window when they weren’t expecting it! It didn’t work out well for me. It was borderline stalker kinda behavior! Fortunately, I was young enough that I didn’t get in too much trouble. But I didn’t win the girl…you have to have a girl who reciprocates your feelings. Sophia: Nothing yet—I’m working on it though!

	Are you dating anyone now?
	James: Yes, I am dating a girl, an actress, no one you might know. Sophia: Yes, an actor—we met while working on the set.

	Learn any lessons about love while doing this film?
	Sophia: When love comes your way, ride it until the wheels come off. Love is what we as human beings fundamentally all crave and wish for. It’s what makes the world go round. That’s what it’s all about.

Susan L. Hornik, Happen’s contributing entertainment editor, is based in Los Angeles.

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