Iconic Italian actress, Monica Bellucci, encapsulates timeless elegance as the cover star of Elle France’s edition dated June 29th, 2023. Captured by the lens of photographer Nico Bustos, Bellucci makes a fashion statement in a pristine white Ferragamo pull and a distinctive Cartier ring, creating an ethereal cover image.
In the detailed cover story, stylist Daria Di Gennaro adorns Monica in exquisite creations from esteemed fashion houses such as Jacquemus, Ralph Lauren Collection, Cadolle, Prada and Dior. The flawless hair styling by John Nollet, exquisite make-up by Letizia Carnevale, and immaculate manicure by Laura Forget complete the enchanting ensemble.
In an interview with Elle France, just before embarking on her London journey to join the set of Tim Burton’s upcoming “Beetlejuice”, Monica Bellucci talks about her multifaceted life, peppered with modeling, acting and motherhood.
“My first photo shoot for Elle was with Oliviero Toscani. I never imagined it would begin a thirty-year journey“, Monica reminisces, her eyes lighting up. Starting her career while still in high school, she would split her time between Milan, Paris and her Umbrian hometown. This stark contrast between her dreamlike work and her real life gave her an equilibrium she has cherished to this day. “This industry can make you lose touch with reality. I’ve always needed to stay grounded“, she states.
When asked about her daughter, Deva’s venture into acting and modeling, Monica’s eyes twinkle with pride. “Seeing her happy makes me happy“, she shares. Deva, following her mother’s footsteps, has begun making her mark in both the worlds of fashion and cinema.
Addressing the controversial issue of ”nepotism”, Monica counters, “There are families of doctors, lawyers, artisans and artists. Deva has been living and breathing cinema since forever“.
Monica acknowledges that the industry’s gaze on women is slowly evolving, and she’s been fortunate to work with a number of female directors. “They narrate and explore stories from a different perspective“, she says. She believes in the transformative power of cinema, and how it can offer a fresh outlook towards female sensuality and beauty.
Monica Bellucci, who’ll soon be working with the legendary Tim Burton on the sequel of “Beetlejuice“, conveys her excitement to be part of this new adventure. “I love and respect Tim Burton immensely“, she enthuses. This Italian star, Parisian resident and global artist embodies a blend of cultural nuances that seep into her roles. Yet, she prioritizes her daughters, ensuring her work never steals too much time from them.
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