Tilda Swinton

Last updated on the 26 March 2024 by Evandrus

Tilda Swinton

Mini Biography

Born: 5 November 1960, London, England. 

Tilda Swinton was raised in a cultured and artistic household. Her mother, Judith Balfour, was an Australian-born artist, and her father, Sir John Swinton, was a major general in the British Army. Growing up, Swinton developed a deep appreciation for the arts, which would later shape her career.

She attended West Heath Girls’ School in Kent, England, where she discovered her passion for acting. Later, she studied Social and Political Sciences at New Hall (now Murray Edwards College) in Cambridge, before pursuing an acting career at the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Tilda Swinton’s acting career took off in the 1980s when she gained critical acclaim for her stage performances. She showcased her immense talent in various Shakespearean plays, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.

In the early 1990s, Swinton transitioned to the world of film, where she continued to shine. Her breakthrough role came in the 1992 film “Orlando,” directed by Sally Potter. Swinton’s portrayal of the gender-shifting protagonist earned her widespread recognition and established her as a versatile and unconventional actress.

Throughout her career, Swinton has collaborated with renowned directors such as Derek Jarman, Wes Anderson, and the Coen Brothers. Her performances in films like “Michael Clayton” (2007) and “We Need to Talk About Kevin” (2011) further solidified her reputation as a talented and fearless actress.

Swinton’s ability to seamlessly blend into diverse roles and genres is a testament to her versatility. From playing a centuries-old vampire in “Only Lovers Left Alive” (2013) to a mystical Ancient One in Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” (2016), she consistently captivates audiences with her transformative performances.

Tilda Swinton is known for her enigmatic persona and unconventional personal life. She has been in a long-term relationship with artist Sandro Kopp since 2004, and the couple have twins.

Beyond her acting career, Swinton is deeply involved in the art world. She has collaborated with various artists and filmmakers, often blurring the lines between acting and performance art. Her artistic endeavors have included live art installations, video projects, and curating film festivals.

Tilda Swinton’s dedication to her craft, fearlessness in taking on challenging roles, and artistic versatility have made her an iconic figure in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to film, theatre, and art continue to inspire audiences and aspiring artists alike, solidifying her status as one of the most respected and celebrated actors of her generation.

 

BAFTA award

 

WINNER | Film: Supporting Actress for Michael Clayton (2008)

 

 

Oscar award

 

WINNER | Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Michael Clayton (2008)

 

 

 

Suggested viewing

 

Orlando (1992)

Orlando poster

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.1

Orlando is a fantastical tale that follows the life of a young nobleman who mysteriously transforms into a woman and embarks on an extraordinary journey through time. This gender-bending narrative explores themes of identity, love, and the fluidity of existence, captivating readers with its imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking insights.

Top cast: Tilda Swinton, Billy Zane, Quentin Crisp, Lothaire Bluteau, John Bott, Charlotte Valandrey, Heathcote Williams, Dudley Sutton.

We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)

We Need to Talk About Kevin

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.5

“We Need to Talk About Kevin” delves into the disturbing tale of Eva, a mother grappling with the aftermath of her son Kevin’s horrific act of violence. Through fragmented memories, the film explores the complex dynamics of motherhood, guilt, and the haunting question of nature versus nurture.

Top cast: Tilda Swinton, Ezra Miller, John C. Reilly, Jasper Newell, Rock Duer, Ashley Gerasimovich, Siobhan Fallon Hogan, Alex Manette, Kenneth Franklin.

The Souvenir (2019)

The Souvenir

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.4

“The Souvenir” is a drama film directed by Joanna Hogg. It portrays the tumultuous relationship between a film student, Julie, and her older, secretive boyfriend, Anthony. As Julie navigates her artistic aspirations and personal growth, she becomes entangled in a destructive and emotionally complex love affair that profoundly impacts her life.

Top cast: Honor Swinton Byrne, Tom Burke, Tilda Swinton, Richard Ayoade, Ariane Labed, Jaygann Ayeh, Jack McMullen, Chyna Terrelonge Vaughan, Tosin Cole

The Souvenir: Part II (2021)

The Souvenir: Part II

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 7.2

Julie, after enduring a tumultuous and manipulative relationship with an older and charismatic man, embarks on the journey of unraveling her complex emotions for him while creating her graduation film. As she delves into the process, she grapples with distinguishing between the truth and the intricate web of fiction he meticulously weaved, seeking clarity and closure in the aftermath of their love affair.

Top cast: Honor Swinton Byrne, Richard Ayoade, Tilda Swinton, Charlie Heaton, Joe Alwyn, Harris Dickinson, Ariane LabedJack McMullen, Amber Anderson.

The Eternal Daughter (2022)

The Eternal Daughter

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.0

In this haunting story, an artist and her elderly mother embark on a journey back to their ancestral home, which has been transformed into a hotel. As they traverse the halls of this enigmatic establishment, they are confronted with the shadows of the past, unearthing long-held secrets that have laid dormant for years. They attempt to unravel the mysteries that haunt this once-beloved residence.

Top cast: Tilda Swinton, Joseph Mydell, Carly-Sophia Davies, August Joshi, Crispin Buxton.

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008)

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian poster

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.5

In “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian,” the Pevensie siblings find themselves transported back to Narnia. They join forces with Prince Caspian to battle the oppressive King Miraz and restore Narnia’s rightful heir to the throne. Their journey is filled with adventure, mythical creatures, and a struggle for freedom.

Top cast: Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, William Moseley, Anna Popplewell, Ben Barnes, Sergio Castellitto, Peter Dinklage, Warwick Davis, Vincent Grass.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.9

“The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” is based on the thrilling fantasy tale by C.S. Lewis. Four children stumble upon a magical wardrobe that transports them to the enchanting world of Narnia. There, they join forces with Aslan the Lion to defeat the White Witch and bring back hope and spring to the land.

Top cast: Anna Popplewell, Skandar Keynes, William Moseley, Georgie Henley, Tilda Swinton, Ben Barnes, James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent, Kiran Shah, James Cosmo, Liam Neeson.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)
The Chronicles of Narnia, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.3

“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader” is a fantasy adventure film. It follows the Pevensie siblings and their cousin, Eustace, as they join Prince Caspian on a quest to find seven lost lords. Sailing aboard the Dawn Treader, they encounter mythical creatures and dangerous challenges, ultimately discovering their own inner strength.

Top cast: Ben Barnes, Skandar Keynes, Georgie Henley, Will Poulter, Anna Popplewell, William Moseley, Simon Pegg, Liam Neeson, Tilda Swinton.

Three Thousand Years of Longing  (2022)
Three Thousand Years of Longing

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.7

During a visit to Istanbul, a lone academic stumbles upon an ancient bottle and inadvertently releases a djinn. The djinn, willing to grant three wishes, encounters a hesitant scholar who struggles to formulate her desires. As an attempt to inspire her, the djinn weaves captivating tales in hopes of guiding her towards her wishes.

Top cast: Tilda Swinton, Idris Elba, Erdil Yaşaroğlu, Ece Yüksel, Zerrin Tekindor, Sarah Houbolt, Sabrina Elba, Seyithan Özdemir, Aamito Lagum.

Full filmography (@Wikipedia)

 

Tilda Swinton Gallery

 

 

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