Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick starred in animated film ‘Trolls’

In a recent appearance on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, Anna Kendrick opened up about a nerve-wracking yet unforgettable experience that took place at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. During the event, she and her Trolls co-star, Justin Timberlake, were tasked with performing a rendition of Cyndi Lauper’s iconic song True Colors. This performance was part of the promotional activities for the animated film in which the two stars voiced the characters of Poppy and Branch.

Kendrick revealed that both she and Timberlake were battling illness at the time of the performance, adding an extra layer of pressure to an already daunting situation. Despite their physical discomfort, the two still pushed forward and committed to delivering a performance. Kendrick reflected on how the experience was one of those rare “bucket list” moments, particularly because she had the chance to sing alongside one of pop music’s greats.

The performance was a simple one, Kendrick explained, with both singers opting for a stripped-back version of True Colors. The duo rehearsed the song countless times, each repetition helping to perfect the arrangement. However, Kendrick shared a funny anecdote from their preparation process, revealing a moment of creative tension between her and Timberlake just before they went on stage. She recalled Timberlake, as they were about to perform, singing his part alone and adding in several intricate vocal riffs.

“Are you gonna do it like that?” Kendrick asked him, clearly surprised by the spontaneity of his vocal embellishments. To her relief, Timberlake reassured her, “No, no, no, no, no, no. It’s fine!” Despite his reassurances, Kendrick confessed that she was still taken aback by his confidence and his ability to make bold choices in the moment.

For Kendrick, performing alongside Timberlake was a surreal experience, as she acknowledged his immense talent and his effortless vocal range. The actress, known for her roles in films like Pitch Perfect and Twilight, admitted that Timberlake’s voice left her in awe. She marveled at his ability to access such a wide range of vocal techniques, something she felt was beyond her own capabilities at the time.

“I told him, ‘You still have access to so much of your voice that I do not have right now,’” Kendrick said. Timberlake, ever the humble professional, quickly reassured her, telling her, “No, no. It’s going to be exactly how we did it. It’s gonna be fine.” His calm and supportive demeanor helped to ease Kendrick’s nerves, allowing her to push through her anxieties and enjoy the moment.

The duo’s performance at Cannes was a highlight of the festival, showcasing their chemistry both on and off-screen. As the voices of Poppy and Branch in Trolls, Kendrick and Timberlake formed a dynamic duo that resonated with audiences, bringing to life the vibrant and heartwarming characters from the animated world. Their off-the-cuff performance of True Colors, a song about self-acceptance and embracing one’s inner beauty, perfectly encapsulated the message of the film.

Despite their illnesses and the mounting pressure of performing in front of an international audience, Kendrick and Timberlake’s chemistry and professionalism shone through. Their commitment to the performance and to each other was evident, and their shared experience became one of those rare moments where the magic of a live performance transcends the nerves and challenges of the moment.

For Kendrick, the experience was a reminder of the power of collaboration and the joy that comes with working alongside talented individuals who make the process fun and memorable. Timberlake’s kindness and generosity as a co-performer were not lost on Kendrick, who expressed her admiration for the way he made her feel at ease despite her nerves.

In reflecting on the experience, Kendrick offered insight into what it was like to work with Timberlake on such an iconic song. While the stakes were high, and the performance was fraught with challenges, the end result was a moment of shared artistic expression. For Kendrick, Timberlake’s calm under pressure and his unwavering confidence in their preparation made all the difference, turning what could have been a stressful situation into one of her fondest memories.

Looking back, Kendrick’s story from Cannes is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live performances, where things don’t always go according to plan. However, it’s also a testament to the power of collaboration, talent, and a little bit of humor in overcoming nerves. Despite the illness they were both dealing with, Kendrick and Timberlake were able to deliver a performance that was not only memorable but also deeply reflective of the bond they had formed as co-stars in Trolls.

As Kendrick continues to reflect on her career and the unique moments that have shaped it, the experience with Timberlake at Cannes remains a cherished memory—one that highlights both the challenges and rewards of working in the entertainment industry. And for fans of Trolls, it’s a moment that will continue to stand out as an example of what happens when two talented artists come together to create something magical, even in the face of adversity.