Gemma Arterton reveals awkward filming incident with co-star

Gemma Arterton recently recounted a troubling experience while filming an unnamed project, where she faced pressure from the director to perform a sex scene that she had not agreed to. Despite the director's insistence, she stood her ground, stating that the scene was originally intended to be off-screen, with only audio cues. This situation left her co-star feeling embarrassed, especially with high-profile individuals present on set. Arterton emphasized that she would not have taken the role had she known the scene would be filmed in such a manner. The incident occurred before the introduction of intimacy coordinators in the film industry, which are now standard practice to ensure the comfort and safety of actors during intimate scenes. Gemma reflected on how, in her younger years, it would have been more challenging to refuse such demands, highlighting the significant changes in the industry regarding actor autonomy and consent. Currently, Gemma is promoting her latest film, The Critic, where she stars alongside Sir Ian McKellen. She has expressed admiration for McKellen, noting his dedication to his craft and his warm personality. Recently, she commented on his decision to take a break from acting after an accident, suggesting that it was a well-deserved pause for someone who works tirelessly. Overall, Gemma's experience sheds light on the evolving landscape of film production, particularly concerning the treatment of actors and the importance of consent in intimate scenes. Her story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by performers in the past and the progress being made in the industry today.