With great professionalism and emotion, Aurora Ruffino unveils her cinematic memories and the process of creating her characters. From the surreal debut at the age of 19 in “The Solitude of Prime Numbers” to the mysterious world of “Black Out”, Aurora shares the secret of her balance between emotion and rationality in the creative process.
Together, we discovered her unique approach to each project and the surprising transformations she undergoes on set and in life. In our conversation, Aurora also talked about the liberating power that acting holds for her and her personal conception of makeup: a ritual that provides confidence with a touch of simplicity. A meeting that revealed the depth of a truly outstanding talent.
What is your first cinema memory?
My first memory is associated with the set of “The Solitude of Prime Numbers”. It was my first film, I was 19 years old, and it seemed so unreal to me. From that moment, I began to dream of making acting my profession.
When you build a character, are you more emotional or rational?
It’s both. Given how the set works, it’s crucial to maintain a certain control and not let yourself be completely overwhelmed by emotion, or else you risk “burning out”. One needs to be able to repeat the scene several times, always leaving the most important space for emotion.
What usually makes you say yes to a project? And specifically, what made you say yes to “Black Out”? And what was the first question you asked the director after reading the script?
I start with the assumption that every project is important to me because it always involves challenges and new experiences, so I love saying yes. With “Black Out”, I loved the originality of the story and the opportunity to portray a law enforcement character. The first thing I said to the director was, “I can’t wait!”.
“I Love saying Yes”
What surprised you the most in building the character of Lidia?
From being an insecure and frightened girl, Lidia transforms into a self-assured woman who knows what she wants.
When you act, the work you do on yourself and the character can be significant; perhaps you come into contact with parts of yourself that you didn’t think you had. What is the last thing you discovered about yourself through acting?
I discovered that there are no limits. You can build any character through work and concentration.
How did you approach the beauty world for the first time?
Very clumsily. I was 14 years old, and I remember applying eyeshadow to cover dark circles because I didn’t have a concealer.
What is the power of makeup for you?
The right makeup can help you feel more confident. I love a very simple and natural makeup look: a bit of eyeliner, mascara, and a light nude lipstick.
“The right makeup can help you feel more confident.”
What are your must-have makeup products?
Concealer, mascara, and a nude lipstick.
The beauty world is also a way to take care of yourself deeply: living a little more in the present through a daily or special routine. What is your special routine?
Good cleansing and eye and face cream.
What beauty product do we find on your nightstand?
Face creams.
Are there rituals/habits you do every day to “connect” with yourself, or is it something that comes naturally to you?
I love dedicating time to reading books that help me connect with my inner world, like “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle.
Have you ever felt lonely? How do you face loneliness? Do you ever intentionally seek it?
I have felt lonely even in the company of others. In those moments, I feel the instinct to truly isolate myself. However, despite learning to be truly comfortable with myself, I believe it’s essential to push oneself to go out with people with whom you feel free and truly yourself.
“…I believe it’s essential to push oneself to go out with people with whom you feel free and truly yourself.”
What has been the best “fuck you” moment in your life?
Turning the anger and frustration of a “no” into creative energy, leading to the realization of a very important project, which I will start talking about next year.
What makes you angry?
Dishonesty.
What does it mean for you to feel comfortable in your own skin?
Being 100% honest with myself and others, even if it’s often uncomfortable.
What scares you the most?
Right now, I feel like I’m not afraid of anything. I’m facing a moment of great transformation, a new period, albeit uncomfortable as I deal with significant emotional wounds. Still, I feel strong and ready to welcome whatever life brings.
What has been your biggest act of rebellion so far?
I have always been very free, so I have never had to rebel against anyone. When I want to do something, I do it without thinking too much, and sometimes, I have to admit I should pause and reflect a bit more.
The last thing that made you smile?
A plane trip with my brother Stefano, it was his first time, and seeing him so happy made me burst with joy.
What’s your happy place?
Nature and books.
Photos by Johnny Carrano.
Thanks to Armani Beauty.
Thanks to Lorella Di Carlo.
LOOK
Dress: Pronovias
Jewelry: Messika
