Lily Collins will be starring in a new Netflix original movie called ‘To The Bone,’ debuting online on July 14th, 2017.
In an interview with The Today Show, Lily talked about how she resonated with the movie, as she suffered from an eating disorder for a few years as a teen. However, Lily expressed concern of how her role could take a serious toll on her personally.
Lily came clean about some heavy emotions she dealt with while playing a role that reminded her of her past struggles with anorexia. Speaking with Shape Magazine, Lily talked about stepping back into the shoes of the past Lily, only in character, “I was terrified that doing the movie would take me backward.” Years before this movie was even mentioned, Lily admitted to being in recovery from her own eating disorder in her teenage years, and this movie served as a hard reminder.
“To The Bone” afforded Lily the opportunity to talk to professional doctors and nutritionists about the pure facts and research on the topic of eating disorders. She was made aware that even though this role required her to look very frail, she was eating healthy and was monitored by the crew from the movie, as well as her mother and a nutritionist. This kind of educational preparation let Lily further develop her role for her upcoming movie, “I had to remind myself that they hired me to tell a story, not to be a certain weight. In the end, it was a gift to be able to step back into shoes I had once worn but from a more mature place.”
Lily Collins’s Movie Role Comes Shortly After Sharing Her Vulnerabilities Through A Book On The Issue
In past interviews, Lily has talked about her eating disorders and how she also talked more about her experience in her book called ‘Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me‘. In the book that was released back in March of 2017, Lily speaks to topics that many younger woman feel are ‘forbidden.’ Lily delved into more than she expected to do, “I didn’t realize I’d cover so much.” Lily spoke about the coincidence and similarities from the book to the movie to Shape “I’ve always strived to start conversations about taboo subjects with young women. Sharing my story in Unfiltered happened to coincide—not strategically!—with ‘To the Bone,’ but I’ve always admired people who are relatable and honest.” Fortunate for Lily, her eating disorder prevention advocacy had her book released shortly before being offered a part on the film.
Lily Collins Is Confident, Strong And Love’s The Skin She’s In
In regards to her definition of ‘health,’ Lily has completely changed what health looks and feels like since overcoming her eating disorder.
Although she used to view ‘healthy’ as the picture-perfect body, she now realizes how that isn’t the case. Lily defines her new description, saying: “Healthy is how strong I feel. It’s a beautiful change because if you’re strong and confident, it doesn’t matter what muscles are showing. Today I love my shape. My body is the shape it is because it holds my heart.”
Lily wants her audience to feel confident in themselves and to realize that when it comes to topics, such as eating disorders, that no one is ever alone.
Lily mentions that eating disorders not only affect women but men too, saying: “It’s a universal issue that is really important to talk about.” She hopes that this movie creates more of a conversation to talk about this issue, in order to educate and help others.
Since the news of the movie, especially the trailer for ‘To The Bone,’ many people have had differing opinions. Especially after ’13 Reasons Why’ debuted on Netflix and all the controversy that ensued, many others are afraid that this movie may romanticize this topic.
I don't think too many opinions should be made of 'To The Bone' before it comes out but really hope it doesn't glorify ED's.
— Félicité 🌹 (@felicitegrace) June 25, 2017
We think that this movie’s purpose will serve more as an educational tool, rather than a glamorization, to show how eating disorders affect people and how much self-love is important. We’re proud that Lily has overcome her eating disorder and that she’s healthy, vibrant, and happy. And the message that Lily is sharing with the world, is already starting the conversation she hoped for.
If you, or someone you know, are struggling with an eating disorder and are looking for help or more information, you can get in touch with the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline at 1-800-931-2237. The 24-hour crisis line is also available, just text ‘NEDA’ to 741741.
