Zoe Kravitz Aims to ‘Weaponize’ Channing Tatum’s Charisma in Film

Zoe Kravitz has stirred the pot with her recent comments about ex-fiancé Channing Tatum, revealing her intentions to “weaponize” his renowned charisma in her new film “Blink Twice.” In an exclusive interview featured in Variety’s Directors on Directors issue, published on December 18, Kravitz, who directed the psychological thriller, expressed how Tatum was her immediate choice for the role of Slater King. Reflecting on their collaboration, she reminisced about the creative chemistry they shared prior to their split in October 2023.

Kravitz described Tatum, 44, as someone whose charisma she aimed to leverage for his pivotal character, emphasizing the need for Slater to appear trustworthy to the audience, as this element is crucial to the film’s unsettling narrative. “We needed to create a character that people would believe in,” she noted, highlighting the intriguing psychological layers woven into the story. The film revolves around Slater, a tech billionaire who invites a cocktail waitress, Frida (played by Naomi Ackie), to a mysterious getaway that quickly turns sinister.

During their promotional tour for “Blink Twice,” which premiered in August, both Kravitz and Tatum were seen as a unit, radiating affection and support publicly. At the film’s premiere, Kravitz affectionately referred to Tatum as the “love of [her] life,” showcasing the deep bond they formed throughout this creative venture. Tatum echoed these sentiments, asserting that working alongside Kravitz brought new dimensions to his craft and enriched their connection.

The film’s plot thickens with its focus on Frida’s growing distrust of Slater amidst strange occurrences. Kravitz deliberately chose Ackie for the role because of her ability to convey deep emotion through subtle facial expressions—an essential trait for her character’s journey.

Despite their romantic relationship ending, sources indicate that both actors remain professional and dedicated to their projects. They are set to collaborate again in Cate Blanchett’s upcoming film “Alpha Gang,” suggesting that their artistic partnership might continue to flourish, even after their personal lives have taken a turn. As insiders reveal, there’s no animosity between them, and they’re both committed to making the most of their time on set, staying focused on their passion for filmmaking.

In nearly two years together, Kravitz and Tatum captivated fans with their public appearances and camaraderie, creating a buzz about their relationship. However, as their engagement came to an unexpected close, it remains to be seen how their dynamic will evolve moving forward in the industry. With both stars having expressed their admiration for each other’s talent, audiences are left anticipating what their next collaboration will bring.