The actress and writer Lena Dunham reveals insights on her new Netflix rom-com "Too Much," as well as personal growth regarding body image and romantic relationships.
Lena Dunham Talks Fatphobia, Love, and Her New Rom-Com Set in London
Lena Dunham Talks Fatphobia, Love, and Her New Rom-Com Set in London
Dunham discusses her latest project inspired by her move to the UK and reflects on body image and dating.
Lena Dunham, well-known for her success in New York, has made a significant transition with her recent work—a Netflix rom-com inspired by her life in London. Titled "Too Much," the film follows Jessica (played by Megan Stalter), a New Yorker who relocates to London post-breakup, eventually navigating love with punk musician Felix (Will Sharpe). Dunham's move to London in 2021 sparked this creative project, as she delves into cultural nuances like the national love for Paddington Bear and the notorious Jaffa Cake debate.
Although Dunham acknowledges the film's "superficial similarities" to her own life—claiming it is about 5% autobiographical—she distances herself from the protagonist, stating that Jessica is distinct and crafted with Stalter in mind. In the past, Dunham faced intense scrutiny about her body while working on "Girls," leading her to take a step back from the spotlight. Now, she focuses on writing and finds personal empowerment beyond societal standards of beauty.
Dunham has also expressed her belief that, despite progress toward body positivity, society remains entrenched in fatphobian and misogynistic notions. She has opened up about her health struggles, including endometriosis, and said her relationship with her body has evolved significantly. By absorbing the lessons from both her youth and industry challenges, she urges younger women to understand their desires rather than conform to societal pressures.
"Too Much," created with her husband musician Luis Felber, reflects an authentic depiction of modern romance. Dunham encourages 20-somethings to redefine dating in today's landscape, recognizing her own journey and the misconceptions that colored her early romantic pursuits. With its release on Netflix set for July 10, "Too Much" promises a refreshing and relatable narrative about love and self-acceptance.
Although Dunham acknowledges the film's "superficial similarities" to her own life—claiming it is about 5% autobiographical—she distances herself from the protagonist, stating that Jessica is distinct and crafted with Stalter in mind. In the past, Dunham faced intense scrutiny about her body while working on "Girls," leading her to take a step back from the spotlight. Now, she focuses on writing and finds personal empowerment beyond societal standards of beauty.
Dunham has also expressed her belief that, despite progress toward body positivity, society remains entrenched in fatphobian and misogynistic notions. She has opened up about her health struggles, including endometriosis, and said her relationship with her body has evolved significantly. By absorbing the lessons from both her youth and industry challenges, she urges younger women to understand their desires rather than conform to societal pressures.
"Too Much," created with her husband musician Luis Felber, reflects an authentic depiction of modern romance. Dunham encourages 20-somethings to redefine dating in today's landscape, recognizing her own journey and the misconceptions that colored her early romantic pursuits. With its release on Netflix set for July 10, "Too Much" promises a refreshing and relatable narrative about love and self-acceptance.
