Mary Elizabeth Winstead Embraces ‘Scream Queen’ Title in New Interview

Mary Elizabeth Winstead and the ‘Scream Queen’ Label

For many years, Mary Elizabeth Winstead has been recognized as a ‘scream queen,’ a title often given to notable figures in horror films. With her roles in series like Wolf Lake and Final Destination 3, she has carved a niche in the horror genre. Even two decades later, Winstead continues to deliver performances that surpass mere genre categorization. Her latest project, The Hand That Rocks The Cradle, exemplifies this versatility.

Exploring The Hand That Rocks The Cradle

This film, a loose remake of the 1992 classic, showcases Mary as a suburban mother who employs a nanny, played by Maika Monroe. The plot thickens when dark secrets begin to surface, framing a psychological horror narrative around themes of obsession and deception.

Relating to Her Character

Mary expresses a strange familiarity with certain aspects of her character’s struggles. “I haven’t experienced anything quite like Caitlyn’s situation, but I’ve had moments where my boundaries weren’t clear, allowing someone to get too close too quickly. It catches you off guard,” she reflects. This personal insight adds depth to her portrayal.

Maika Monroe’s Shift in Role

Maika Monroe, known for her performances in cult favorites like Villains and Longlegs, transitions from being a victim to an aggressor in this film. “It was a delightful change,” she shares, expressing joy in tapping into a different side of her acting abilities. “Unique challenges made it fun, and I enjoyed every moment,” she adds.

Motherhood’s Influence on Performance

Drawing from her own experience as a mother, Mary found it easier to channel her character’s anxieties about having a stranger around her children. “Having become a mom made it more relatable; I could easily tap into the feelings this character was experiencing,” she explains.

Embracing the ‘Scream Queen’ Title

Both actresses embrace the ‘scream queen’ title, appreciating its origin in love for their work. “It’s never felt negative. If it comes from a place of admiration, I accept it wholeheartedly,” Mary articulates.

Maika shares similar sentiments, taking pride in her participation in various horror films. “The horror community is dedicated and passionate. I’m fortunate to be a part of it,” she states enthusiastically.

Directed by Michelle Garza Cervera, The Hand That Rocks The Cradle also features Raúl Castillo and Martin Starr. The film is now available for streaming on platforms such as Hulu and JioHotstar.