See Shelley Duvall Talk About Her Last Movie Shortly Before Her Death: 'It's Great Fun Being Back' (Exclusive)
Shelley Duvall's last film, 'The Forest Hills,' is slated for an October 2024 release
The Forest Hills/YouTube
Shelley Duvall in 2024Shelley Duvall, who died on Thursday, July 11 just days after her 75th birthday, gave an interview before her death about her final acting role in The Forest Hills.
In the exclusive clip shared with PEOPLE, Duvall, who had been on a 20-year hiatus from acting, says "it's great fun being back." "I do love this work. It can really help bring you out of a slump." Duvall was filmed remotely and directed via Zoom for her final role.
Elsewhere in the clip, The Shining actress spoke about how she enjoyed being around a close-knit group while on set, and how the movie proved to her that there was a "great future for aging actors" in the industry.
Duvall praised her costar Chiko Mendez, who portrays the son to her overbearing mother in The Forest Hills. "Working with Chiko is wonderful," she says, adding that he sang and played the guitar between takes.
The Popeye actress was also fascinated by the "new technologies" involved in movie making. "I was amazed at how easy it became to become a filmmaker."
She also reminisces about being in hair and makeup, where there was tea, coffee — and sometimes tacos. Duvall said it was the longest time she spent in a chair.
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The movie's director writer and producer, Scott Goldberg, told PEOPLE how he will remember the actress following her death. "Shelley leaves behind an amazing legacy and will be missed by so many people, myself included," he said.
"I am proud of her for overcoming adversity to act again and will always be forever grateful for her friendship and kindness."
Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images
Shelley Duvall in 1994Duvall's partner, Dan Gilroy announced her death on Thursday, July 11, following complications of diabetes. "My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us," he told The Hollywood Reporter.
"Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley."
Art Zelin/Getty Images
Shelley Duvall circa 1970The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!
The Forest Hills is slated for an October 2024 release, on physical media, digital and theatrical. Shelley Duvall Special Edition Blu-ray Pre-Order is available at www.WatchTheForestHills.com
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