In a recent appearance on The View, Maggie Gyllenhaal shared insights into her directorial debut film, The Lost Daughter, featuring an ensemble cast including Olivia Colman, Dakota Johnson, Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, and her husband Peter Sarsgaard.

Gyllenhaal, 44, who tied the knot with Sarsgaard, 50, in 2009, confessed to feeling initially uneasy about directing him in intimate scenes for the movie.

Initially hesitant, Gyllenhaal eventually embraced the experience, emphasizing the deep connection and history she shares with her spouse.

She reflected, “I did think at first, ‘Maybe it’s not a great idea,’ and then I was like, ‘I’ve been with my husband for a long time.

We’ve been through so much.

I know my husband loves me.

Who could do this better than him?’

Really, nobody.”

Regarding the inherent complexities of filming intimate scenes, Gyllenhaal expressed, “The sexuality, it’s strange; it’s a weird part of our job,” highlighting the allure of emotional connection over physicality.

She elaborated, “The thing that makes the scene hot, I think, is that he’s hot for her mind — her mind.

What is sexier than that?

He’s like, ‘I am into your mind.’

… Really, that kind of s**y is irresistible.”

Gyllenhaal and Sarsgaard, parents to daughters Ramona, 15, and Gloria Ray, 9, form a strong support system for each other.

At the recent Gotham Awards, Gyllenhaal commended Sarsgaard’s unwavering support throughout her directorial journey, emphasizing his pivotal role in maintaining family balance while she pursued her filmmaking endeavors.

Reflecting on the intricate themes explored in The Lost Daughter, adapted from Elena Ferrante’s novel, Gyllenhaal highlighted the film’s exploration of motherhood complexities.

She acknowledged Sarsgaard’s vital role in supporting her, enabling her to delve into the challenging narratives depicted in the movie without worrying about familial responsibilities.

The Lost Daughter, a poignant portrayal of a mother’s inner turmoil, starring Colman as the protagonist navigating her past experiences with parenthood, is set to hit select theaters on Dec. 17, followed by a Netflix release on Dec. 31.

Gyllenhaal’s directorial prowess shines through in this compelling narrative, offering viewers a glimpse into the complexities of maternal emotions and societal expectations.