LIFE LESSONS
Diane Keaton
Iadopted my children at 50. That is probably too late, because I worry that I’ve got to be around for a while. I am single. I think kids need fathers, and I did not provide that, so there are things that are imperfect about all this. But at the same time, there is nothing that has more meaning for me in my life than my kids, Duke and Dexter. When it comes to being happy, I like really simple things. I like being in the sun and travelling in a car. You can really see the world. I drive to Arizona a lot and around California… It calms me down. I see buildings I love and I’m constantly taking pictures of them as a hobby. If you take the road you wouldn’t normally take, it’s stunning. It keeps me attached to the real world, not the world of work and acting. I’ve never been married. I think that part is over. But then again… Who knows, right? You don’t know for sure. There you go – never say never! Turning 70 last year was difficult. You know there is an end in sight. That makes every moment more meaningful and also sad. You think even more about the people you have lost, which I hate. It also makes you think about the mystery in life. It’s such a wonder, but it is also so inexplicable; you notice things you didn’t really take in before. But many people handle it. Activities and being engaged really help.
I really identify with the idea that things can always change. My film, Hampstead, is about two people who are older. You would say their life has already been written, but with one action it all changes. It’s a very hopeful concept: that things can change no matter how old you are or what situation you are in. The possibility is there. That is what I love about the story. It’s refreshing to see two older romantic leads as the main characters. Filming was a challenge because the weather [in England] is insane! I can’t stand it! It is so beautiful but so annoying. We would be filming in a graveyard and it would be raining, and you’re thinking: ‘One minute ago it was sunny!’ And then you have to change. Every day was freezing! Now I understand why you use the fabrics you use. You need them, and you need hats. I’m sorry, I don’t like the cold. I’m from California and I want it to be hot! My style has gone through phases in my life. Like a Romeo Gigli phase and a Ralph Lauren phase. There is always Prada. There is also Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld. I have never seen anybody I so admire. He is covered completely from head to toe; from the highest neck, everything is covered. I am on his team – I don’t want any part of that body of mine exposed. None! I hate it! I am addicted to my treadmill. You must exercise. It doesn’t matter what, but do something, and try to do it every day. You have got to move that body around. I also believe in trying to frame everything as best you can – I use lipstick and eye make-up. I believe in covering up! You do your best.