Glenn Close, the legendary actress known for her compelling performances and emotional depth, has long been a beloved figure in Hollywood. Throughout her career, Close has portrayed a wide variety of characters, from complex villains to heartwarming heroines, earning countless accolades and nominations along the way. One of the most intriguing aspects of her storied career, however, is the personal stories and memories she’s amassed from her time on set. In a recent revelation, Close shared one of her most memorable and cherished moments—a moment that involved a kiss.
The Kiss That Left an Impact
In a candid interview, Glenn Close disclosed what she considers her “best onscreen kiss.” While many fans would likely associate her career with intense dramatic roles or groundbreaking performances, this particular moment stands out for its emotional weight and the circumstances surrounding it. As Close herself admitted, the kiss was significant not only because of the chemistry between her and her co-star but also because it was a fleeting experience.
“I only got to kiss him once,” Close shared, reflecting on the limited, yet poignant moment. “It was very special. That kiss became one of the most memorable of my career.”
Fans and movie buffs alike were left intrigued by Close’s statement. Who was the lucky co-star, and what was it about that particular kiss that made it so unforgettable?
The Co-Star: A Legendary Actor
The lucky man in question was none other than the iconic actor John Malkovich. The two starred together in the critically acclaimed 1988 film “Dangerous Liaisons,” based on the French novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos. Directed by Stephen Frears, the film follows a complex web of manipulation and deceit set in 18th-century France, with Close playing the manipulative Marquise de Merteuil and Malkovich portraying the scheming Vicomte de Valmont.
In “Dangerous Liaisons,” Close and Malkovich’s characters are embroiled in a tumultuous relationship marked by power struggles, emotional manipulation, and romantic intrigue. Their performances, alongside those of co-stars such as Michelle Pfeiffer and Uma Thurman, made the film a classic, earning several Academy Award nominations, including one for Close in the Best Actress category.
The kiss in question, which Close referred to in her interview, occurs at a pivotal moment in the film. As part of the manipulative games their characters play with each other, their passionate kiss becomes an intense and symbolic gesture—a moment of connection amidst the deceit and betrayal. While only a single kiss is shared between the two characters, it leaves an indelible mark on the audience, amplifying the emotional stakes of the film.
Why This Kiss Stands Out
For Glenn Close, the reason this particular onscreen kiss stands out is tied not just to the chemistry between her and Malkovich but to the emotional weight it carried within the context of the story.
“The kiss was an expression of everything that was happening between our characters,” she explained. “It was one of those rare moments where the audience could feel the rawness of their emotions, even if they were masked by manipulation. It wasn’t just a physical kiss—it was symbolic of the emotional turbulence they were both enduring.”
Indeed, “Dangerous Liaisons” is a film filled with complex, layered emotions. The kiss between Close and Malkovich encapsulates the tension, lust, and power dynamics that run throughout the movie. The rare, fleeting nature of the kiss speaks volumes about the characters’ vulnerability, their desires, and their manipulations—all of which are key themes in the film.
In addition to its emotional significance, the kiss between Close and Malkovich was memorable for its intensity. Both actors are known for their ability to bring depth and nuance to their roles, and this kiss stands as one of the most unforgettable moments in their collaboration.
Onscreen Chemistry and the Art of Kissing
Over the years, Glenn Close has garnered a reputation for her ability to portray complex, multifaceted characters with incredible depth. Whether she’s playing the villainous Alex Forrest in Fatal Attraction or the emotionally conflicted Cruella de Vil in 101 Dalmatians, Close’s performances are consistently marked by their intensity and authenticity.
Similarly, John Malkovich has made a name for himself as one of the most enigmatic and talented actors of his generation. Known for his distinctive voice, subtle delivery, and strong presence, Malkovich’s onscreen persona complements Close’s own acting style.
When discussing the art of onscreen kissing, Close acknowledges the delicate balance of creating chemistry between actors. “Kissing on screen is a tricky thing,” she said. “It’s not just about the physical act; it’s about the emotional and psychological connection between the characters. You have to trust your partner and trust the scene.”
In “Dangerous Liaisons,” Close and Malkovich certainly demonstrated this trust. Their chemistry was palpable, and their kiss was not merely a moment of passion but an emotional turning point that underscored the manipulation and gamesmanship their characters engaged in.
The Legacy of “Dangerous Liaisons”
“Dangerous Liaisons” remains a touchstone in cinematic history, particularly for its depiction of love, lust, and betrayal. The film’s performances, costume design, and direction have earned it a lasting place in the pantheon of great films. For Close and Malkovich, the film represented an important chapter in their careers.
The kiss between Close and Malkovich is just one of many iconic moments from the film, but it holds particular significance because of its emotional resonance. Despite the fact that it was a single kiss, it spoke volumes about the characters’ inner turmoil and the shifting dynamics of their relationship.
In the years since the film’s release, Glenn Close has often reflected on her time working with Malkovich, particularly their powerful on-screen partnership. In interviews, she has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with such a talented actor and for the lasting impact the film has had on her career.
A Cherished Memory
Looking back, Close fondly recalls the day she shot the iconic kiss scene with Malkovich. “It was one of those rare moments in film where everything just fell into place,” she said. “The actors, the director, the writing—it all came together perfectly, and that kiss became something more than just a kiss.”
It’s clear that the kiss has stayed with Close, not only for its importance in the film but for the creative connection she shared with her co-star. “It was a beautiful moment,” she concluded. “It felt like the culmination of everything that had been building between us and between the characters.”
Conclusion: A Moment Frozen in Time
In a career filled with memorable roles and performances, Glenn Close’s revelation about her best onscreen kiss with John Malkovich in Dangerous Liaisons adds yet another layer to her incredible legacy. The kiss, though fleeting, became a symbol of the complex emotions and powerful dynamics at play in the film. It was a rare moment of vulnerability amidst a story of manipulation, and its emotional weight continues to resonate with audiences today.
As Close continues to bring her remarkable talent to new roles and projects, fans will undoubtedly look back at her time working on Dangerous Liaisons and remember not only the memorable kiss but also the incredible artistry that both Close and Malkovich brought to the screen. In the world of Hollywood, where many scenes are fleeting and ephemeral, some moments—like this iconic kiss—stay with us forever.