Jennifer Garner Shares Why She Believes ‘Love, Simon’ Is Her Most Meaningful Role and the Importance of Art
Jennifer Garner recently reflected on her role in the film Love, Simon, expressing her admiration for both the movie and its director, Greg Berlanti.
Based on Becky Albertalli’s novel Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, Love, Simon features Nick Robinson as a closeted gay teenager navigating the complexities of coming to terms with his sexuality.
In the 2018 romantic comedy, Garner portrays Emily Spier, Robinson’s mother. A poignant moment in the film showcases a heartfelt conversation between them, where Emily reassures Simon that their relationship will remain unchanged following his coming out. The scene culminates with Garner telling Simon that he can now “exhale” and embrace his true self.
During a recent appearance on the UK’s Hits Radio, Garner described Love, Simon as “the most important film I’ve ever been a part of.”
“I’m so grateful that [Greg Berlanti] asked me [to be part of the movie]. I’m so grateful that I got to play the role and be that mom,” she said. Garner shared that she often hears from people, particularly flight attendants, who tell her how the film has facilitated conversations with their families. “You know, Love, Simon helped me. I saw it with my parents. It really helped us have a conversation,” she recalled.
Garner further emphasized the significance of art in society, stating, “Art helps you see yourself. It helps you see yourself reflected back. It helps you dream. It helps you see outside of yourself and think and experience someone else’s experience of the world and have more openness and empathy for them.”
The emotional impact of Garner’s performance in Love, Simon remains a memorable aspect of the film, emphasizing the pivotal role of storytelling in fostering understanding and connection.
