Hermione Corfield has been appearing in some of my favourite films for longer than I realised – Mission: Impossible, The Misfits, and Sea Fever. But it’s her latest role that has me, and seemingly a large portion of the world, obsessed.
In Outlander: Blood of My Blood, Corfield plays Julia Moriston Beauchamp – mother to lead character Claire Fraser from Outlander. The prequel show sees Julia and Henry Beauchamp’s romance go from the battlefields of the World War I to a journey into 18th century Scotland. The series is returning for season two imminently – and while we wait patiently for what comes next, it feels like a good time to get to know Corfield a little better. Because while her filmography has taken her everywhere from oceans far away to the Scottish Highlands, we wanted to know about the films that have stayed with her.
Below, we speak with Corfield on her penchant for Scandinavian films, her favourite cinema, and the movie that changed her life.
What was the last film you watched?
What is your favourite film of all time?
The Worst Person in the World or Joe Wright’s Pride and Prejudice.
What is the genre you gravitate the most to?
I really enjoy drama but it has to have an element of humour. I also love comedy. I seem to gravitate towards Scandinavian films a lot.
What film changed your life?
Past Lives.
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What is a literary character you identify most with?
I think the joy of reading is getting into the minds of other people. I feel like I find a way to identity with most characters, no matter how far from me. A book that I have recommended to lots of people and seems to continuously resonate is Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi.
Who is your favourite director?
Joachim Trier and Ruben Östlund.
Which book would you love to see become adapted on-screen?
The Safekeep by Yael Van Der Wouden.
Which is your favourite cinema?
I’ve watched a lot of films at The Ritzy in Brixton.
If you could watch a film for the first time again, which one would it be?
Bridesmaids.
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What movie scene has stuck with you?
The final scene of Past Lives – when we follow her along the street and she returns to her apartment and her partner.
Do you have a favourite actor?
Mark Rylance. I’ve watched him in several plays in London and on the screen and he is always excellent.
Do you have a favourite cinema snack?
Mixed sweet and salty popcorn with Peanut M&M’s or some kind of chocolate on top.
What is a line from a movie you always quote?
Bridesmaids – “Help me I’m poor”.
What’s your go to in-flight movie?
I always use the time to watch something I haven’t managed to see yet, but will watch an episode of a show like The Office, Ab Fab, or Arrested Development before I land.
